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Thursday, May 21, 2015

The perfect wines for Memorial Day weekend

As Memorial Day weekend is upon us, it is a time that marks the unofficial start to summer with a 3-day weekend marked by parades, barbecues and memorial services honoring our service men & women who have lost their lives fighting for our country.

With all of the fun activities planned for the long weekend, it's time to think about your wine options to offer at your gatherings.  With the weather turning warmer, it's time to think of lighter, crisper wines of all colors that pair well with burgers, hot dogs and other tasty grilled treats.  Wines from Greece's grapes fit the bill perfectly - they are at their best when enjoyed with good food & good friends!

Here are some fun options that will please everyone in the crowd:


These tasty bubbles are made from the muscat grape and are off dry.  Perfect for those people that want something light & refreshing!


Samos is a mountainous island in the Aegean Sea.  This is an island ruled by the muscat grape - it makes wonderfully aromatic dessert & dry wines.  Here, the High Peaks is 100% Muscat from the highest altitude vineyards of the island (close to 1200 feet above sea level).  High Peaks is floral and lively with crisp mineral notes.  It is perfect as an aperitif while the grill is firing up.


The Mercouri Estate is one of Greece's most beautiful properties - it is situated along the Western Peloponnese coast.  The family were merchants with Friuli and emigrated to Greece in the mid 1800's.  As a result, their wines have an Italian flair to them.  The Lampadias is an aromatic blend of Agiorgitiko, Syrah & Negroamaro.  Lampadias has aromas of rose petals and white pepper.  perfect with a grilled hot dog!



Notios Red is a perfect red for summer - it is light and fruity and is great when served chilled.  Made from 100% Agiorgitiko, the main red grape of the Peloponnese, it is 100% unoaked.  It is filled with red fruit notes and a pleasant acidity.  This wine is perfect with your BBQ ribs or hamburger, or even salmon for that matter!

Now that you have your recommendations in hand, I urge you to seek out any of these gems and enjoy them with your friends this holiday weekend.