VIDIANO IN 5'!

General info

Vidiano is a Greek grape variety that was nearly extincted. Over the past 17 years, various winegrowers and winemakers of Crete have been engaged in the revival of the variety and have already begun to show its potential. In the poorer soils it makes excellent wines that combine balance and finesse while when cultivated in plains it gives wines with a more intense fruity character. ΅When it comes from high altitude it has a strong mineral and herbaceous character and more accented acidity.

Apart from the different styles of still white wines, some are experimenting with sparkling wines too. The result is extremely attractive and promising for the future.

Characteristics

Typically, a single varietal Vidiano has moderate acidity, medium body and a pale lemon-green color in the glass. The characteristic aromas are apricot, peach, bergamot, chamomile, citrus blossoms and a slight sense of minerality, especially when the altitude rises. Vidiano has an oily texture that gives it structure and character.

Maturation in oak suits it and emphasizes its mineral dimension and its oiliness. An oaked Vidiano usually has fuller body and aromas of melon, orange, banana, apricot, hazelnut and vanilla.

The most classic partner for Vidiano is Vilana. The wines of this blend have accented tropical fruit aromas and lower acidity. On the other hand, the marriage of Vidiano with Assyrtiko gives wines with higher acidity, citrus aromas and mineral sensation.

The wine-makers believe they have good aging potential as well. Qualitative and balanced Vidiano, without the use of oak, can be kept for about 3 years, while the oaked versions last for over 5 years in the cellar, by evolving and gaining complexity.

Combination with food

Because of its aromatic character and its oily texture, Vidiano goes perfectly with squid or roasted cuttlefish, with pesto sauce or some aromatic olive oil. Seafood spaghetti with white sauces are a perfect match. On the other hand, it would accompany spicy roasted chicken or slow roasted pork belly.

The oaked versions can accompany fish on bbq, pork chops with honey and mustard, but also an apaki slightly sauteed and dressed with lemon, because as it is known what grows together, goes together!

 We could go on for hours, but we said in 5 '!

Eva Markaki

Wine Geek