Alcyone

Score

94

"A beautifully layered expression of Assyrtiko, the Vassaltis Vineyards 2023 Santorini Alcyone Cuvee Mythologique presents the variety's hallmark freshness with added depth and complexity. Flint, crushed stone and bright acidity frame a richer core of stone fruit and subtle caramel notes, creating a wine that feels both evolved and energetic at the same time. Produced in 3,606 bottles, the wine undergoes whole-bunch pressing before fermentation in oak tanks, followed by elevage in flex tanks and concrete over a total of 15 months. The fruit is sourced from a selection of vineyard parcels chosen for their concentration and intensity, resulting in a more powerful and textural interpretation of Santorini that nevertheless retains excellent precision and mineral focus."

Score

92

"The barrel-fermented 2023 Santorini Alcyone Cuvée Mythologique was aged in a combination of concrete and plastic tanks for 15 months. Though it is initially a bit subdued on the nose, time in the glass gradually releases stony minerality, lime peel and reserved hints of straw. Less concentrated and brooding than the more muscular 2022 tasted alongside, the 2023 is a classic Alcyone Cuvée Mythologique with ample freshness on the streamlined finish."

Score

17.5

"Herby citrus and stony freshness. Lime and lime leaf. Creamy, lightly spiced, super-fresh and very youthful. Layered but not as long or as rich as Gramina. The oak is exceptionally subtle. In fact the whole wine is subtle, lingering, and requires more time to unfurl. The acidity and the fruit are not so much at the forefront but are all there. Salty finish. (JH)"