Gaia 2024 Wild Ferment Assyrtiko Santorini

Gaia Wild Ferment Assyrtiko is a masterfully expressive rendition of Santorini’s signature grape—bold, mineral-rich, and vibrantly complex. With its wild yeast fermentation and blend of fermentation vessels, it delivers tropical fruit, minerality, and a layered oak influence without sacrificing the grape’s saline purity. A standout Assyrtiko that will challenge and delight enthusiasts of Greek whites.

Winemaking & Origin

• Crafted on Santorini by Gaia Wines, established in 1994, from ancient, ungrafted Assyrtiko vines grown using the traditional “kouloura” bush-pruning method on volcanic soils. 

• After harvest, grapes undergo a 10–12-hour cold maceration before fermentation using spontaneous ambient yeasts. Fermentation and aging occur across multiple vessels—stainless steel (50%), French oak (20%), American oak (10%), and acacia barrels (20%)—with a “hands-off” approach letting natural yeasts and temperature shifts guide development. 

Tasting Notes

• Aromas: A radiant and exotic bouquet intertwines lemon peel and crushed rock with floral acacia, vanilla, and tropical nuances like pineapple and cantaloupe. 

• Palate: The texture is mid-weight and slightly oily, accessing rich mineral salinity. Flavors of preserved lemon, poached apricot, grapefruit peel, and subtle phenolics, all framed by dry acidity and oak seasoning. 

• Finish: Long and focused, a combination of saline acidity, tangy fruit, and a finish that echoes stone and smoke. 

Accolades & Aging

• Score Highlights:

  • Wine Advocate awarded 93+ points, praising its exotic citrus and mineral elegance with a phenolic amaro note in the finish.

  • Decanter (90+) lauded the poached apricot, grapefruit, and smoky mineral finish.

  • Decanter World Wine Awards awarded Platinum for its broad aromatics—lemon, nettle, salted butter, and well-integrated oak. 

• Evolution Potential: Enjoyable young, but gains additional nuance over 2–5 years as mineral-driven layers gently mellow and honeyed depth emerges.

Summary Table

Food Pairings

• Excellent with shellfish and rich seafood, including salted fish or grilled octopus.

• Lovely alongside creamy poultry dishes or aromatic salads dressed with citrus-honey vinaigrette. 

In essence, the Gaia Wild Ferment Assyrtiko is a vibrant, terroir-rich expression—marrying Santorini’s volcanic minerality with fragrant wild ferment complexity and subtle wood nuance. A thoughtfully crafted Assyrtiko that offers both depth and freshness.