Zakynthino is a rare indigenous white grape variety originating from the island of Zakynthos in the Ionian Islands of Greece. Known for its expressive aromatic profile, Zakynthino wines typically reveal delicate floral notes, interlaced with ripe citrus, hints of stone fruits such as peach and apricot, and a subtle herbal undertone. On the palate, the wines are vibrant and medium-bodied, offering a refreshing acidity balanced by a gentle roundness, with flavours echoing the nose and occasionally a touch of saline minerality reflecting Zakynthos’s maritime influence.
The variety is predominantly cultivated in Zakynthos itself, though recent interest from contemporary winemakers has seen limited plantings in neighbouring regions of Western Greece. Zakynthino is most commonly vinified as a single-varietal white wine, though it may also be blended with robust local varieties for added complexity and structure.
Ideal food pairings include fresh seafood such as grilled fish and shellfish, Mediterranean salads, lemon-based poultry dishes, and mildly tangy cheeses like feta or young goat cheese. Zakynthino’s lively acidity and aromatic freshness make it an excellent partner for a broad array of Mediterranean cuisine, enhancing both subtle and more pronounced flavours.