Some of my favourite things have come from Greece…besides modern civilization of course. Greek salad, Tzatsiki, Kalamari, Spanakopita, Moussaka and of course, Gyros are all some of my favourites (and yes, I know they are all edible).

Recently, I’ve discovered a new favourite from Greece: Axia Red 2010 from Alpha Estate. Last year, Alpha Estate won Wine & Spirits Winery of the Year and this specific blend was awarded a ‘Best Buy’ award as well as 91 pts by Robert Parker. Trust me when I say that these are all AWESOME feats and I am slightly embarrassed that I have never previously come across this wine.

I never anticipated falling in love with a Greek wine. One normally thinks of juicy Syrah from France or Italy but this Axia Red is a combination of Greek Syrah and Xinomavro with both red and black juicy aromas and a light savoury pepperiness- Delicious!

I love that despite its fruit filled taste, Axia is not overly sweet remaining smoky and layered. One might say that it is the perfect blend of ripeness and fresh acidity with a delectable, earthy medium body. I love this wine so much that I drove an hour to drop off a bottle at my sister’s house- (She loves it too). Axia 2010 is a good food wine that can be enjoyed with a meat lover’s pizza, skewered lamb or other grilled meats.

If you are planning on attending any Holiday events this season, definitely bring this wine as a hostess gift. You will sound very wine savvy when you introduce a new and award winning wine to the table. It will go well at cocktail parties and even if you don’t get to it night of, your host will love discovering this bottle the next day. They will definitely thank you…and maybe even invite you over again.

Try something different this holiday season and trust me, you will be pleasantly surprised.

Axia Red is available at the LCBO for $17.95

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