Viniou Reviews
Estate Argyros’ Cuvée Monsignori 2017 is a distinguished white wine from the storied volcanic island of Santorini, within the Aegean Islands of Greece. Crafted predominantly from Assyrtiko, the island’s flagship grape, this cuvée is sourced from some of the oldest vineyards on the island, with ungrafted vines that can be up to two centuries old. The 2017 vintage experienced favourable climatic conditions, allowing for perfect ripeness while preserving the grape’s vibrant acidity. Vinification is meticulously handled to accentuate Assyrtiko’s rare minerality and structure, with minimal intervention and careful ageing that often includes a period on fine lees, lending additional complexity to the finished wine. The resulting glass is a masterful expression of saline minerality, zesty citrus, white peach and subtle herbal notes, wrapped in a precise, elegant frame.
Santorini’s wine history stretches back millennia, and it remains one of the world’s most distinctive terroirs. The island’s soil is dominated by porous volcanic ash, pumice and basalt, a legacy of a dramatic ancient eruption. Combined with strong Aegean winds, intense summer sun and low rainfall, the conditions foster vines that are both hardy and deeply expressive, cultivated in low-lying basket shapes ("kouloura") to shield them from the elements. This unique terroir imparts a signature saltiness and austerity to Santorini wines, setting them apart on the global stage.
For food pairings, the freshness and striking minerality of Cuvée Monsignori 2017 make it a superb match for seafood—think grilled octopus, seared scallops, oysters or classic Greek dishes such as lavraki (sea bass) with lemon and olive oil. Its depth and structure also pair beautifully with grilled vegetables, tangy feta or goat’s cheese, and lightly spiced Mediterranean fare.
To best appreciate its aromatic finesse and textural richness, serve this wine chilled at 9-11°C. Decanting is not necessary, but a few moments in the glass will allow its intricate layers and the powerful essence of Santorini’s volcanic terroir to reveal themselves fully.
