Verdea Nature 2019, Oenos Nature

Verdea Nature 2019, Oenos Nature

Date Tasted: 10/2021

As in Retsina, Verdea refers to a type of wine and not the grape variety. It is produced in Zakynthos island, and the blend is mainly of the local varieties Skiadopoulos, Pavlos, Goustolidi and Avgoustiatis. The harvest takes place before the optimal ripeness in order to keep the acidity high and the wine age in oak barrels. As a result, the final wine is slightly oxidative with a nutty character which reminds fine sherry. Although for centuries, Verdea was a popular wine, today it is not so favourite. However, in the last few years, some winemakers on Zakynthos' island started to craft this type of wine again. It seems that the Natural Wine movement helped the resurrection of Verdea since the consumers are more open to taste and appreciate this unique wine type. 

Appearance: Pale amber colour.

Nose: It has a medium aromatic intensity yet with a much exciting profile. The deliberate oxidation is emphatic with many roasted nuts, lemon, bitter almond and bread dough.

Palate: It is dry and round with medium-plus acidity. Some tropical notes are developed. It's genuinely palatable. The aftertaste is almost long and complex. 

Drink: It is already fully developed, so there is no reason for waiting.

Food Pairing: It was a pairing made in heaven with a traditional Greek "horiatiki" pasta, with egg on top, fresh ground pepper, and if you want to give a gourmet dimension, add fresh truffle.

Score: 91

Name: Verdea Nature

Producer: Oenos Nature

Variety: Skiadopoulos, Pavlos, Goustolidi, Avgoustiatis

Vintage: 2019

Region: Appellation Tradition Zakynthos, Ionian Islands, Greece

Alcohol: 13%

Retail Price: 18€

Serving temperature: 10-12 C°

Drink it until 2025