Winemaker Notes
Hatzidakis Nykteri is a yellow golden color. Aromas of ripe stone fruits and lemon. Vibrant and full-bodied on the palate with a mineral aftertaste.
Serve with shellfish dishes, meats in white sauce, grilled meat as well as mature full fat cheese.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
This wine faithfully reflects Nykteri tradition in a category that has many different interpretations today. The Hatzidakis 2022 Santorini Nykteri is made with late-harvest fruit from centenary vines. The fruit is pressed during cool nighttime temperatures, and the end of the harvest is celebrated with music performed by Stella Hatzidakis (an opera singer) and agronomist Markos Chouzouris on guitar. The wine ages in neutral French oak to show almond butter, cooked apple and preserved lemon. I also get a musky note that reminds me of ozone or a closed refrigerator door, but that does blow off. It closes with pretty freshness.
A crisp white variety full of zippy acidity, Assyrtiko comes from the volcanic Greek island of Santorini but is grown increasingly wide throughout the country today. Assyrtiko’s popularity isn’t hard to explain: it retains its acid and mineral profile in a hot climate, stands alone or blends well with other grapes and can also withstand some age. Somm Secret—On the fairly barren, windswept Mediterranean island of Santorini, Assyrtiko vines must be cultivated in low baskets, pinned to the ground. The shape serves to preserve moisture and protect the growing grapes in its interior.
