1979 Kallos Stergiano 2022 is a testament to Eleni Kechri’s passion, dedication, and innovative experimentation with retsina. This exceptional retsina stands out as not only premium but also extraordinary, captivating with its harmonious blend of Assyrtiko and pine resin from the mainland (stergiano).
Eleni Kechri’s new project, 1979WINES, aims to illuminate the profound connection between the grape and the resin. In 1979, the Presidential Decree for the category Retsina Appellation by Tradition was issued, and in honour of this significant milestone in Greek wine history, she named her project 1979WINES. Through scientific research, 1979WINES explores every aspect of retsina, from its production to its enjoyment.
For the 2022 vintage, Eleni Kechri crafted two wines with identical vinification and aging protocols, each made from 100% Assyrtiko from Goumenissa. The sole difference lay in the origin of the sustainable pine resin used. One wine utilised resin sourced from pine trees by the sea, while the other came from pine trees inland, hence the name stergiano (stergia means land in Greek). The striking differences between these two wines are both remarkable and intriguing.
For 1979 Kallos Stergiano 2022 the resin came from pine trees from Gerania Mountains in Megara. This unique terroir imparts an intense botanical character to the wine, characterised by the distinct notes of pine needles, thyme, mastic, and lemon leaves. These flavours harmonise seamlessly with the generous aromas of citrus fruits (Assyrtiko) and the subtle hints of spices and toasted sourdough bread from the fermentation and maturation (5 months) in French oak barrels.
1979 Kallos Stergiano 2022 is a retsina unlike any other that demands your attention and deserves your utmost appreciation!
