Assyrtiko

Assyrtiko is a Greek white grape tied to the volcanic island of Santorini, where vines are trained into basket shapes called kouloura to withstand wind and drought. Unusually among white varieties, it retains sharp acidity even when fully ripe. The potassium-poor volcanic soil lowers pH, producing taut, mineral, saline wines with aromas of citrus, flint and iodine that reward cellaring with unexpected longevity and depth.