We would like to thank mr. Simos Georgopoulos for this amazing article about our Retsina.
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A mini vertical of a wine is something ordinary, but if the wine is a Retsina this sounds weird at least. The difference is that Gikas Vineyards Retsina must be seen from a fine wine perspective because its quality is in par with country’s best whites. This is due to the ideal use of high quality resin as well as the usage of perfectly matured grapes derived from the semi- high altitude vineyards in the slopes of mount Kithaironas.
You’ve better avoid betting on the category of this wine! Even in a classic white wine glass it perfectly hides the resiny character, but when served in a white Burgundy balloon it is impossible to be distinguished from a high quality oak aged white.
Moreover it is a rare occasion of a Retsina that benefits from aging. This is not usually the case, as the pine aroma tents to override the fruit after 6 -12 months in the bottle. But Gikas offering is a brilliant exception.
Even rarer is the producer’s choice to change both the name and the label of this wine for 3 years in a row (!), nonetheless a sip will force you to return to more positive thoughts.
Ritinitis 2012 is an Assyrtiko, Roditis and Savatiano blend, full of honey, burned butter, honeycomb and pine notes. On the palate the medium + body, the concentration and the roundness resemble an aged Friulano!
Protasis 2013 is a mono varietal Assyrtiko and a candidate for the title of best Retsina in history. Finesse, terrific sense of resin and lengthy palate sum up to a top notch offering that put even the best Greek whites in difficulties.
The most recent Pine Forest from 2014 vintage is still young to fully integrate the resin, a fact that makes the pear and sage aromas suffering. But the brilliant acidity and long aftertaste are very promising for the evolution of the wine in the near future.
Although Gikas Retsina is not comes cheap, it will surprise any wine lover and make him adore this unique category of wine. Just treat it like a premium white wine and it will offer shear pleasure even when paired with Michelin –star dishes.
