Wines Attica Aoton Winery - Savatiano Night Harvest Wild Ferment Skin Contact - 2022

Aoton Winery’s Cuvée Savatiano Night Harvest Wild Ferment Skin Contact 2022 stands out as an intriguing expression of contemporary Greek winemaking. This white wine, crafted in the Attica region of Central Greece, appears to showcase the native Savatiano grape—a variety deeply rooted in the viticultural landscape of Attica. The mention of “night harvest” suggests that the grapes are picked in the cooler hours, aiding in the preservation of vital acidity and aromatic delicacy. With wild ferment and skin contact methods, this cuvée likely offers an aromatic complexity and a gentle tannic structure, bringing depth and texture uncommon in many whites. The dry style gives it a crisp backbone, while skin contact may impart subtle phenolic nuances reminiscent of lightly amber or “orange” wines, although this can vary based on the duration and technique used.

Attica, located just outside Athens, is renowned for its rolling limestone hills and a climate marked by warm, sun-filled days and cooling evening breezes from the nearby Aegean Sea. The soils are typically alluvial and calcareous, offering a perfect base for drought-resistant indigenous grapes like Savatiano. This region has a rich winemaking history dating back to ancient times and is now enjoying a revival, with producers combining tradition and modernity to highlight the true character of their local varieties.

For food pairings, this wine’s likely freshness and textural grip would pair well with a wide range of Mediterranean dishes. Try it with grilled octopus drizzled with olive oil and lemon, or classic Greek mezze such as taramasalata, fava, or dolmades. The wine’s structure should also complement richer dishes like roast chicken with herbs or even a mildly spiced seafood stew.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly chilled, ideally between 10-12°C. A wider glass can enhance the aromatic depth and allow the wine’s interesting texture to unfold fully. Consider decanting if you wish to intensify its aromatic profile, especially if the skin contact is pronounced.