INO Semi Sweet Red

I didn't expect to like this one nearly as much as I did. I remember liking it a few years ago (the days when I was so shocked to find Greek wine anywhere I'd buy it), but I must have bought a few bottles when it was on sale and forgotten about them since them. It certainly lives up to its semi-sweet label so proceed appropriately if you normally dislike sweeter reds. It tastes a tad sweet, red-fruity but provides smooth and balanced refreshment. Serve it with a good chill (recommended on the label as 59-64 degrees...i'd take that range down 5 degrees) for those weekend afternoons/early evenings. No pairing recommendations from my trial--but I'd imagine it's best with mixed light appetizers or even by itself.

It's labeled as country wine of Greece..originating in the "foothills surrounding Thebes in central Greece. It's the inviting mix the French varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache Rouge and Carignan. In the US (or at least in my area), I think it's bottled and imported as this....You can find it at Cleveland Park Wines and Spirits (apparently) or try Asadur's in Rockville (I refer to the owner of Asadur as my Greek wine guy---also my olive oil guy and my Feta guy and my Nescafe guy..you get the idea).

Also, INO's straightforward labeling and good value make it a favorite wine to serve at DC area Greek festivals.

I'm wondering if it's sold in other countries as Melodikos. In any case, if you're looking for a sweeter red in the 10-12$ range, this might be one.

2003 Achaia Clauss Nemea Agiorgitiko

Hailing from the northeastern Peloponnesos in Nemea, this dry red from the 2003 vintage is definitely worth taking a look at. Made from the Agiorgitiko, as most reds from this region are, it comes off as a bit fruity upfront with sour cherry flavors coming through. After being open for a bit, the slight hint of oak comes out (it's aged in oak for a year). It comes together as an almost-too-easy to drink red with very soft tannins.

Probably versatile enough to drink on its own or even with pasta, chicken and meaty dishes.

I have a few bottles of the 2003 vintage, which I think are perfectly ready to drink now..and I doubt that will be hard since they are so good. I also have a bottle of the 2005, which I might save until next year.

And good news: if you can find this, it should retail for about $10 or $11...an excellent Greek wine at that price. I got it at the county liquore store, which tends to have odd Greek wine picks, so I'm not sure how widely available this is currently. The 2005 might be easier to find and likely a good bet too...that review will be coming up.