Although this is my first time featuring a label from Damascios Winery in the Reviews section, the producer from Nea Mesimbria has firmly established a presence in my top selections over the past 2-3 years. Their most recent accolade comes from the Drink Pink 2024 event.
The success is attributed to the exceptional work of brothers George and Miltos Damascos—note that while the winery`s name is spelled with an "i," their family name is without one. They are continuing their grandfather`s legacy with a 150-acre vineyard as their source.The King for a Day Assyrtiko features the same provocative label as their Chardonnay, yet the winemaking choices are distinctly opposing. While the Chardonnay is released after a brief barrel aging, the Assyrtiko undergoes an impressive four years of aging in stainless steel tanks and amphorae.I generally do not favour aging in clay, as the enhancement it provides can ofter be short-lived; however, this cuvée stands out with its bright pale yellow colour, retaining green highlights even after so many years, completely devoid of any yellowing! Aromatically, it showcases youthful exuberance with an expressive bouquet that includes minerals, nettle, dough, and pear. The body is typically modest, but the roundness imparted by the amphora combined with persistent flavour gives it a richer profile. The acidity is vibrant yet not intrusive, well-supported by abundant fruit, and the unusual absence of tannins (for the variety) contributes to its persistent calm. This Assyrtiko is best enjoyed in smaller glasses; the Stolzle Exquisit White 42cl, served cold at 9-11°C, beautifully highlights its body and creamy texture. It pairs excellently with delicate fish dishes—such as cod with green curry—or a cheese platter, and it eagerly awaits a vibrant lemony chickpea or cauliflower gratin. For a country looking to the whites of 2026 in 2025, the release of a six-year-old wine may sound radical. However, even internationally, few producers would release a white that not only doesn`t feature "2" as the third digit in its vintage but also requires an additional 3-5 years to reach its peak. This Assyrtiko exemplifies that ethos and proves it certainly won’t be King for just one day!Rating: 8/10
The success is attributed to the exceptional work of brothers George and Miltos Damascos—note that while the winery`s name is spelled with an "i," their family name is without one. They are continuing their grandfather`s legacy with a 150-acre vineyard as their source.The King for a Day Assyrtiko features the same provocative label as their Chardonnay, yet the winemaking choices are distinctly opposing. While the Chardonnay is released after a brief barrel aging, the Assyrtiko undergoes an impressive four years of aging in stainless steel tanks and amphorae.I generally do not favour aging in clay, as the enhancement it provides can ofter be short-lived; however, this cuvée stands out with its bright pale yellow colour, retaining green highlights even after so many years, completely devoid of any yellowing! Aromatically, it showcases youthful exuberance with an expressive bouquet that includes minerals, nettle, dough, and pear. The body is typically modest, but the roundness imparted by the amphora combined with persistent flavour gives it a richer profile. The acidity is vibrant yet not intrusive, well-supported by abundant fruit, and the unusual absence of tannins (for the variety) contributes to its persistent calm. This Assyrtiko is best enjoyed in smaller glasses; the Stolzle Exquisit White 42cl, served cold at 9-11°C, beautifully highlights its body and creamy texture. It pairs excellently with delicate fish dishes—such as cod with green curry—or a cheese platter, and it eagerly awaits a vibrant lemony chickpea or cauliflower gratin. For a country looking to the whites of 2026 in 2025, the release of a six-year-old wine may sound radical. However, even internationally, few producers would release a white that not only doesn`t feature "2" as the third digit in its vintage but also requires an additional 3-5 years to reach its peak. This Assyrtiko exemplifies that ethos and proves it certainly won’t be King for just one day!Rating: 8/10
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