Christos Kokkalis Syrah 2008

Winery: Christos Kokkalis

Varietal: Syrah

Whilst there remains plenty of debate over which is the 'correct' name for the Shiraz/Syrah grape varietal, nobody is in any doubt about the influence and popularity this grape has had over recent decades. For centuries, this varietal has been used in single variety and blended wines in the regions of France it is most closely associated with, yet the 20th century saw it become one of the definitive grape varietals of New World red wines, where its big, robust character and spicy, berry-rich flavors proved to be a hit with international audiences. Today, Shiraz/Syrah is said to be the seventh most widely planted grape varietal in the world, and is used for a remarkably wide variety of quality red wines – including still, sparkling and fortified varieties.

Country: Greece

Thanks to thousands of years of viticulture, and a dedication to quality and experimentation, Greek wines remain in a league of their own and continue to surprise and delight wine lovers around the world. From the refined and delicious Agiorghitiko wines, with their deep ruby red color and intense fruit flavors, to the unusual and highly aromatic fortified wines made with the black Mavrodaphne grapes, Greek wine is renowned for its variety and consistent excellence. It seems the blazing Mediterranean sunshine allows wineries to make the most of the late harvests and all the intensity of flavor this brings, resulting in wines which are bursting with fruit-forward character and unusual aromas.