Santorini Assyrtiko 'Cuvée Palatia'

Score

95

"The Estate Argyros 2023 Santorini Assyrtiko Cuvee Palatia is conceived as a grand mosaic of old-vine Assyrtiko sourced from seven historic vineyard sites across the island: Louros, Kavalieros, Ftelos, Vasalia, Agios Ioannis, Kastana and Kamarades. Aromas of lemon custard, allspice, fresh strawberry cream, tobacco leaf and crushed stone unfold with remarkable elegance and detail. The palate combines concentration with freshness, showing the mineral backbone and precision that define the variety while maintaining an effortless sense of balance. Produced in 28,000 bottles from ungrafted vines aged 120 to 180 years, the wine comes from exceptionally low-yielding, dry-farmed vineyards trained in the traditional kouloura basket system. The 2023 growing season was shaped by persistent Meltemi winds-the fierce, dry northerly winds that sweep across the Aegean-which helped preserve freshness and acidity despite the warm summer conditions. Aged for nine months on the fine lees in stainless steel, Cuvee Palatia captures both the concentration of the vintage and the extraordinary complexity of Santorini's ancient vineyard heritage. This is another standout wine of the tasting."

Score

93

"DWWA 2026 Silver Medal: Vibrant orchard fruits and apple blossoms, with chamomile and honeysuckle. Peaches, apricots, sage and smokey minerality enhance the long finish."

Score

92

"A varietal Assyrtiko blending grapes from seven separate vineyards, the 2023 Santorini Cuvée Palatia shows well, opening with intense lime pith, stone dust and a slice of grapefruit. Subtle pastry adds another aromatic layer. Hitting the medium-bodied palate with ample finesse, the 2023 is a vivifying Assyrtiko with poise on the precise finish."

Score

16.5

"Tasted blind. Lemony and super-salty, this feels incredibly youthful, zesty and vivacious … but a little backward right now, wanting time or more air to show off the detail that's wrapped up in its considerable extract. (TQT)"