Christos Kalantzis’ Blog

So I bought this bottle at a recommendation from Gary Chevsky and the gang at Vineyard Gate Wine Sellers.  So I opened it on Sunday night, and had a small glass to figure this wine out.  It had a black pepper nose, which I liked.  I took a first sip and immediately tasted dried berries which, I am told, is classic for a Grenache.  It also has an earthy tone, its a little acidy and has some fruity tannins.

I immediately thought it would go with meat, but not a strong meat like beef and especially not anything gamy.  I didn’t want to pair it with chicken or pork.  Then my favorite meat jumped into mind.  Veal!  Veal would have been great but unlike Montreal, veal isn’t easily found at your local supermarket.  Then I found out pastitsio was on the menu tonight.  Pastitsio is oven baked pasta and meat sauce, with a bechamel sauce on top.  It was a great pairing and worked great.  For around $8 ~ $10, its a great buy.

Although my Greek background makes me a little biased, its a bouquet of exotic fruit, grapefruit and traces of beeswax. Its mouth is fresh and balanced, with the aroma of exotic fruit prevailing, with touches of oak wood and a lengthy palate.