Tasting at Vriniotis Winery and our top picks
We’ve explored wineries across Greece and Europe, but nothing prepared us for the magic lying just 40 minutes away from the Mangata Seaside Hotel, during our scouting for local wines. Vriniotis Winery, nestled in Gialtra of northern Evia, in an area called “polygrape (rich in vines)” by Homer himself (Iliad, Rhapsody B 537) became our unexpected gem. The drive alone, with its scenes reminiscent of classic Greek films, set the tone for the experience that awaited us.
The history of Vriniotis Winery seeped through its walls, echoing the times when Kostas Vriniotis’s ancestors began their vinicultural journey. Standing next to the old stone grape mill with its traditional fermentation tank, the new winery graciously welcomed us. Here, we were introduced to wines from the Iama and Methea labels, including the Vradiano, a rare grape variety revived by the Vriniotis family. As we sipped and swirled, a well-curated cheese platter accompanied our tasting session. The smoked cheese from Vermio and a delightful tomato chutney were our undeniable favorites.
For those considering an evening escapade, Vriniotis transforms into a tranquil wine bar. Imagine savoring your chosen pour while the setting sun casts golden hues over the Euboean Gulf – a sight to behold. But whether you visit by day or by night, ensure you book in advance. The Vriniotis experience is one you’ll want to immerse in, unhurried.
Our Top Picks: Sips to Savor
Exploring the winery wasn’t just about the journey; it was also about finding the perfect wines to enhance our guests’ dining experience at the Mangata Seaside Hotel. Here are our handpicked selections, now proudly gracing our restaurant’s wine list:
- Methea Rosé: A captivating rosé with a hue that perfectly mirrors its bouquet. While the winery suggests pairing it with a tomato sauce pasta, we definitely envision it as a solo performer, sipped during those mesmerizing sunset hours.
- Iama Red: A harmonious blend where Vradyano weds Syrah. This “gastronomic” wine boasts velvety tannins, a peppery finish, and a symphony of forest fruit and spice notes. We’ve found it to be great companion to the meat dishes from our menu.
For those with a penchant for whites, we’ve zeroed in on two stellar options ideal when paired with seafood and our renowned shrimp pasta:
- Methea White: A delightful concoction that wafts aromas of melon with a refreshing acidity.
- Iama White: Crisper, with a refreshing acidity and the floral notes of citrus blossoms.
When you dine with us next, we invite you to explore these exquisite additions to our wine list, each telling its own story of the land, passion, and artistry.
