Nykteri 2018, Artemis Karamolegos Winery

Nykteri 2018, Artemis Karamolegos Winery

Date Tasted: 3/2022

Nykteri was Santorini's white fine wine in the past. The grapes were picked early in the morning before the heat made things complicated, and the grapes were pressed the same night when the temperature was more relaxed, and daylight could not cause oxidation problems. The opposite of Nykteri was Brusko. A classic and the most popular wine style in Santorini where the grapes are left in skin contact for up to 4 days. The resulting wine was tannic, aggressive, oxidized and high in alcohol because of the late harvest. 

Nowadays, Brusko does not exist anymore, and Nykteri has gained Brusko's position as the muscular wine of Santorini. Not because Nykteri followed alternative paths but because technology and innovation helped the producers to craft modern and crystal clear wines. 

Appearance: Deep golden colour.

Nose: It has a nice complexity with orange peel, rose, jasmine, quince and a generous layer of spices mixed with minerality.

Palate: It is textural and creamy with sweet, ripe, yet fresh flavours and sharp acidity. It has a core of wet gravel. The balance is exceptional, and the aftertaste is long and intense.

Drink or Hold: It is perfect now and for the next six years. 

Food Pairing: Lamb en papillote or grouper on the grill. 

Score: 94

Name: Nykteri

Producer: Artemis Karamolegos Winery

Variety: Assyrtiko 90%, Athiri, Aidani

Vintage: 2018

Region: PDO Santorini, Greece

Alcohol: 14%

Retail Price: 26€

Serving temperature: 10-14 C°

Drink it until 2028