Once synonymous with idyllic island vacations and now
with irresponsible debt,
Greece has acquired a third identity: a great
white-wine producing country. From the crisp Assyrtikos of the island of
Santorini to the aromatic Moschofileros and Malagouzias of the
Peloponnese, dry Greek white wines are lively, dynamic and very
well-priced—albeit saddled with some rather challenging names.
As more and better Hellenic wines have arrived in American shops and
restaurants in recent years,
wine drinkers are learning to value their
charms and even how to pronounce their names. James Tidwell, beverage
manager of the Four Seasons Resort and Club in Dallas, Texas, said most
of his customers recognize and confidently state the names Assyrtiko and
Santorini on his wine list, and he knows this is true at other Dallas
restaurants as well.
