I recently attended the International Volcanic Wines Conference on June 18th, which offered an excellent opportunity to explore the world of volcanic terroir and wines. The event featured dynamic masterclasses led by experts and industry leaders, providing insight into volcanic wines from various regions.
During the conference, I participated in two seminars: “The Atlantic’s Hidden Gems: Unveiling Canarian Wines and their Exclusive Varieties” and “A Curated Tour of the Legends of Santorini.” These sessions introduced me to Gran Canarias and Santorini’s unique terroirs and volcanic wine varietals, offering a deeper understanding and appreciation for these regions.
Delve into the why and what you should know about Volcanic Wines.: If you are like me, a lover of crisp and mineral wines, you should be looking for these volcanic wines. Read more.
Joining the seminars in the afternoon was a very good way to study and discover more regions with volcanic wines, such as Gran Canarias.
When I studied in Madrid and worked in Barcelona, I made very good friends with Tenerife and Gran Canarias citizens; hence, having a glass and learning more about the volcanic wines of this region was close to my heart. I hold very good memories of my friends, and now I can cherish them by the glass.
The masterclass was Led by Ana María Martín, sommelier and holder of a diploma in Wine & Spirits (London). The Atlantic’s Hidden Gems Unveiling Canarian Wines and their Exclusive Varieties masterclass focused on the unique terroirs of Gran Canarias.
The Canary Islands crafted wines since the 15th century. The volcanic soil here imparts a distinct, mineral-rich flavor to these wines. They produce a wide range of wines. From vibrant whites and robust reds made from native grapes like Listán Blanco and Listán Negro.
It also showcased distinctive wines with examples from seven producers. The producers included wines from Zanata, Niray, Alante, El Grifo, Pierda Fluida, Tendal, and El Sitio.
“The resurgence of Canary Island wines underscores their historical significance and establishes them as a standard for global innovation and quality in viticulture,” said Aitor Marcos, Commercial Director of GMR Canarias.
I found the profile of Listán Negro the most interesting for my palate. It holds historical significance as this grape emigrated to America with the Spaniards centuries ago. Nowadays, it is grown in Mexico and Chile, known better as the El Pais o Mision grape. The profile had flavors of hibiscus and tamarind, which were utterly mineral and refreshing and enchanted me.
On the other hand, even when I was already aware of Santorini Volcanic Wines I joined the final panel. A Curated Tour of the Legends of Santorini.
During the panel, we enjoyed Santorini producers such as Sigalas, Santo Wines, Estate Argyros, and Vassaltis. All of them featured different expressions of Assyrtiko. From fruit-forward, restrained fruit or with a little bit of malolactic fermentation all the way to a single vineyard, Santorini was genuinely exceptional, especially to me as an authentic Assyrtiko lover.
Assyrtiko from Santorini has now been proven, after 5000 years of existence, to be one of the most important grape varieties in the world. The wines it produces are some of the most expressive representations of a place. “The wines are so terroir-driven that they instantly recall where they are produced, and their unique structure speaks of true volcanic origins,” said Ted Diamantis, President of Diamond Importers Inc.
John Szabo, MS, and Ted Diamantis led the panel. Amy Racine, Beverage Director and partner for JF Restaurants, and Kostas Tellis, Chief Agronomist for Sigalas, Santorini, were the panel participants. It was an exciting conversation from different corners of the industry. It brought new insights into how Assyrtiko is gaining popularity in New York and beyond. Moreover, it highlighted how the wines from Santorini as a brand are attracting new customers looking to pair with Mediterranean fare.
Additionally, the conference covered other volcanic wine regions, such as Sicily, Columbia, and the Willamette Valley. I have explored and recommended some of the volcanic wines of Sicily and Oregon in the past, and I encourage you to look for them as well.
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
