At Richmond and Teddington Wine Societies this June we took the chance to explore the wine growing regions that surround the Adriatic, allowing us to explore a number of grape varieties that we rarely encounter.
Greece provided us with three wines: at Teddington we enjoyed a Traditional Method sparkling wine made from Xinomavro (a black grape, made into white wine) and Assyrtiko, which had lovely mouthfeel and great herby peachy flavours. At both tastings we tasted the same varieties again, also from Greece but this time made into still wines – the Assyrtiko was zesty with a lovely mouthfeel – perfect for fish, and the Xinomavro was spicy with super complexity – and a long finish.
Croatia provided us with a Malvazija Istarka from the Istrian peninsula, one of many variations on the famous Mediterranean grape variety, this had fresh delicate aromas, and a super palate with tangerine peel and stone fruit.
Italy provided three wines that were perfect examples of their regions – a spicy, smoky oaked Verdicchio di Matelica Riserva, a wonderfully rich and complex Montepulciano D’Abruzzo, and to finish a very powerful Primitivo di Mandurla.
Richmond provided a delicious salad followed by a pork chop – another hot night but it was lovely to sit out on the roof terrace. At Teddington it was a bit cooler, so the Cook lasagne, and some good cheeses rounded off the night nicely.
For details of the wines please go to the Wines we have tasted page.
