Grape Variety
Mandilaria 70%, Savatiano 15% and Cabernet Sauvignon 15%
Annual Production
Approximately 4,000 bottles per year.
Introduction
The Aoton Winery's "Lola Traditional Appellation" is a distinctive dry rosé Retsina that exemplifies the rich winemaking heritage of Attica, Greece. Crafted from a blend of Mandilaria (74%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (26%), this wine offers a harmonious fusion of traditional and contemporary elements.
Cultivation
The grapes are sourced from organic vineyards in Peania, Attica, with a planting density of 3,330 vines per hectare. The region experiences a temperate Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters.
Vinification
After a night harvest, the grapes are transported to the winery in small crates to maintain freshness. Fermentation occurs with indigenous yeasts, and 0.4 g/L of hand-collected Aleppo pine resin is added, imparting the characteristic Retsina flavor. The wine undergoes 8 months of aging on fine lees, enhancing its complexity.
Flavor Characteristics
The wine presents a deep pomegranate hue. On the nose, it reveals aromas of pine, mastic, pine nuts, dried strawberry, chamomile, with notes of bergamot and orange. The palate is medium-bodied with a slight tannic structure, lively acidity, and a long aftertaste.
Food Pairing
This versatile wine pairs well with subtle Asian flavors, noodles, seafood, and savory-sweet dishes.
Uniqueness
The Aoton Winery's "Lola Traditional Appellation" offers a unique tasting experience that bridges the ancient tradition of Retsina with modern winemaking techniques, resulting in a wine that is both authentic and innovative.
Grape Variety
Savatiano 75%, Roditis 25%
Annual Production
N/A
Introduction
The Aoton Retsina PGI Mesogia is a traditional Greek wine from the Attica region, produced by Aoton Winery. This wine embodies the essence of Retsina, a style of wine flavored with pine resin, offering a distinctive and refreshing profile that represents Greece’s rich winemaking heritage.
Cultivation
The grapes used in the Aoton Retsina come from the fertile lands of the Mesogia region in Attica. The Savatiano and Roditis vines are grown in the dry, Mediterranean climate, benefiting from the warm, sunny weather that enhances the aromatic qualities of the grapes. The vineyards follow sustainable farming practices to preserve the integrity of the terroir.
Vinification
The wine is made using a blend of 75% Savatiano and 25% Roditis grapes, both indigenous to Greece. The grapes are harvested at night to preserve their freshness. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks using indigenous yeasts, with the addition of Aleppo pine resin during fermentation to impart the distinctive resinous character. After fermentation, the wine is aged on its fine lees for 10 months, allowing it to develop more complexity.
Flavor Characteristics
Aoton Retsina presents a pale golden hue, and on the nose, it reveals aromas of stone fruits, herbs, and citrus, with a clear presence of pine resin. The palate is well-balanced, offering flavors of rosemary, tarragon, and lemon zest, all enhanced by the subtle resinous note that defines Retsina wines. The finish is fresh, with a lingering, herbal aftertaste.
Food Pairing
This Retsina pairs wonderfully with Greek cuisine, particularly grilled fish, seafood, and meze. It also complements dishes with strong herbal flavors such as roasted lamb or Mediterranean-style vegetables. Its unique pine note makes it an ideal match for traditional dishes like moussaka or tzatziki.
Uniqueness
What sets Aoton Retsina PGI Mesogia apart is its commitment to preserving the traditional characteristics of Retsina while elevating the overall quality. The wine’s balance of fruit, herbs, and pine resin creates a harmonious and refreshing profile that remains true to its roots, yet stands out with modern winemaking techniques and the careful attention of Aoton Winery.