Fifteen years ago Zacharias Diamantakis was a distiller His fragrant textured Liatiko tsikoudia sets the standards Its properties present this misunderstood gifted Cretan specialty in the best light He continues to distil now selling his grape spirit on to drinks artisans on the island His energies have shifted to planting more terraced vineyards on his estate Assyrtiko Vidiano Chardonnay Malvazia Aromatica Mandilari and Syrah are his choice of grapes Location is Kato Asites 400650m above the sprawling cityport of Heraklion
In this reviewed new top white blend he has married rising star Vidiano and recent to Crete Assyrtiko This effort is one of several newwave wines to emerge on this now energised wine scene On the eastfacing mostly calcareous clay soils a new dawn is upon us The ageold question arises Place or grape Well looking at forthcoming reviews along these northernlying scattered vineyards there is a number of arguments that some grape varieties transform into something of note due to the place gaining gravitas through eastern exposure and altitude Having star grapes is not instant visa to terroir greatness far from it
Diamantakis points out Wine needs observing and patience In this instance he has chosen to balance the aromatic with the mineral Vines were planted as recently as 2009 It stands promising Time will tell if he has chosen the right spot of producing something exceptional capturing the magic only terroir can deliver If anything his sweatequity experience in distilling which requires disciplined precision may turn out an invaluable asset
In equal parts of both varieties Vidianos viscous creamy mouthfeel showcases stone fruit merging seamlessly on to a firm energetic Assyrtiko minerality Smokey nutty Lasting savourysaline aftertaste Caskdriven ferment with a threemonth stay on its lees offers a luxurious profile Different Best 20152019
Wine: Diamantakis Diamantopetra Vidiano-Assyrtiko
Year: 2014
Link: http://www.diamantakiswines.gr
Score: 16.5
Type: White
Area: Crete