DRINK DIFFERENT - THE GREEK ITALIAN ALTERNATIVE

As we get into summer, the fondness for Pinot Grigio which has grown over the past few years shows no sign of abating.  However, with a flood of bargain, easy drinking Pinot Grigios, the quality has unsurprisingly been compromised.  The cheaper end of the scale often lacks character, and it’s worth paying a little more to get a true expression of what this grape can achieve - wines with lovely aromatic, rich flavours.

A slightly obscure but delicious alternative is Grecanico, a grape which – as the name suggests – was brought to Italy by the Greeks, and which makes a delicious wine in the Mandrarossa region of south-west Sicily.

Similar to the Garganega grape of Soave, Grecanico retains a fresh and tangy acidity, with orange blossom and herbs on the nose.  On the palate it gives almonds, and hints of aniseed and honeysuckle.  An unusual and summery alternative to Pinot Grigio.