Wines Santorini Hatzidakis - Aidani - 2019

Hatzidakis’s 2019 Cuvée Aidani from Santorini is a distinctive white wine that offers an evocative expression of its volcanic island origins. The grape variety, Aidani, is a native white variety of Santorini, often celebrated for its aromatic finesse and its ability to reflect the unique terroir. While precise vinification details are not specified, Hatzidakis is renowned for adopting traditional methods and minimal intervention, allowing the grape’s natural aromas to shine. Expect a wine with subtle floral notes, hints of white peach or apricot, and often a saline edge that speaks to its maritime environment. The 2019 vintage, influenced by the intense sunshine and persistent Aegean winds, is likely to offer both ripeness and vibrancy, balancing natural freshness with gentle textural richness.

Santorini, part of the Aegean Islands, boasts a breathtaking and singular viticultural landscape. Its vineyards are perched on ancient volcanic soils, a result of cataclysmic eruptions thousands of years ago. The unique combination of pumice, ash, and sand, combined with the dry, windy climate, presents tough growing conditions but also produces intensely characterful wines. Vines are often trained in low, basket-shaped bush vines (kouloura) to protect them from the elements. Santorini’s history with wine is legendary, stretching back to ancient times, with its whites, particularly from indigenous varieties like Aidani and Assyrtiko, widely prized for their minerality and freshness.

This style of Santorini white is a superb match for Mediterranean and Greek cuisine. Pair it with local dishes such as grilled octopus drizzled with lemon, fresh seafood salads, or stuffed vine leaves. Its aromatic lift and mineral undercurrent make it equally at home with shellfish, lemon-marinated chicken, or a range of vegetarian meze, including fava (split pea purée) and courgette fritters.

For ideal enjoyment, serve this wine chilled at 10-12°C. This temperature preserves the delicate aromatics and accentuates the vibrant acidity and seam of minerality that are the hallmarks of Santorini’s white wines. It will develop further complexity with a short period in the glass, so don’t hesitate to let it open up as you savour each sip.