Vassaltis Vineyards 2023 'Alcyone' Assyrtiko, Santorini PDO

Item Number: 22564

UPC: 5-200128980153

Country: Greece
Region: Aegean Islands
Sub Region: Santorini
Appellation/AVA: Santorini PDO
Estate Grown Wine: Yes
Vintage: 2023
Grape(s): 100% Assyrtiko
Type: Wine - White
Bottle Size: 750 ml
Pack: 6
Closure: Cork
Alc by Vol(%): 13.5
Soil Type: Volcanic

In Greek mythology, Alcyone, the daughter of Aeolus, god of the winds, was transformed by Zeus into a halcyon bird. The halcyon bird had the power to calm rough winter seas during its hatching period. Vassaltis echoes this idea with their Alcyone Assyrtiko. They use multiple maturation vessels to temper the naturally powerful character of Assyrtiko. The result is a full-bodied, rich, and balanced wine that remains true to Santorini’s distinctive identity while offering impressive aging potential. Though the use of oak in Assyrtiko is often debated, Alcyone demonstrates that oak can enhance complexity and depth without overwhelming the variety.

Winemaking Notes: The grapes are sourced from estate vineyards in Vourvoulos, Pyrgos, and Megalochori. Harvested by hand, the fruit is whole cluster pressed and fermented in oak vats and cement tanks. The wine then matures on its lees in 500-liter barrels for four months with regular bâtonnage, followed by seven months of bottle aging before release.

Tasting Notes: Elegant and layered, Alcyone balances Assyrtiko’s hallmark minerality with structure from oak and lift from cement. The nose is rich and complex, offering notes of orange, lemon, and other citrus fruits alongside hints of fig, flint, vanilla, toast, and saline. The full-bodied palate delivers vibrant acidity, finely tuned minerality, and a long, intense finish. Pair with grilled fish, chicken, pork, or aged cheeses.