Down-to-earth and dedicated, Christina Boutari is the ideal brand ambassador for her family's iconic winery in Greece.
Christina Boutari takes her mission as brand ambassador very seriously. Uprooting her life in Greece, she recently moved to New York City to spread the word across the United States about her family's acclaimed wines. With her charm and expertise, I predict that we'll all be sipping Assyrtiko, Moschofilero, and Xinomavro even as we struggle a bit to pronounce them! For those of us that don't speak Greek, the names of their indigenous grapes can be tongue-twisters, but I assure you that the linguistic acrobatics are worth it for Boutari's delicious wines.
image courtesy of Boutari
Christina represents the 5th generation of the Boutari family and wine has always been a part of her life. Founded in 1879 by her great-grandfather Yiannis Boutari, Boutari is one of Greece's oldest wineries and they have vineyards throughout the country. In Greece, Boutari is synonymous with authenticity and quality and they are the world's number-one selling Greek wine. Over a beautiful seafood dinner at Molyvos restaurant in NYC, Christina took me on a delicious Greek journey with her family's superb wines. Take your palate on a Greek adventure with these four delicious Boutari wines.
Boutari Moschofilero 2016 ($16.99)
A perfect introduction to Greek wines and the Boutari style, this tasty sip is made from 100% Moschofilero (mo-sko-FEEL-er-o) grapes. A charming and refreshing white wine with crisp minerality and vivacious flavors of grapefruit and orange blossom, it is a perfect apéritif and a delicious match with fresh fish, salads, and sushi.
Boutari Oropedio 2016 ($21.99)
This nuanced wine is a more complex expression of Moschofilero. Oropedio means high plateau in Greek and the grapes for this wine come from high altitude vineyards in southern Greece. A short time in oak barrels enhances and rounds out its citrus and orange flavors. Opulent but still lively and crisp, this is a winning match with seafood. Pair it with grilled octopus, you won't be disappointed.
Boutari Santorini 2016 ($34.99)
Assyrtiko (a-SEER-tiko) is another must-know Greek grape and this beauty from Santorini is a superb expression. Nurtured by Santorini's rich volcanic soils, this elegant white wine wows with outstanding minerality, zesty citrus flavors, and a seductive lingering finish.
Boutari Naoussa 2012 ($22.99)
Produced from the Xinomavro (ksee-NO-mavro) grape, Boutari Naoussa is one of Greece's landmark wines. Earthy and elegant with vibrant acidity and well-integrated tannins, this nuanced and sophisticated wine is reminiscent of Barolo. A great match with lamb.
Are you ready to give Boutari a swirl? Elegant, well-made, and expressive; these gorgeous Greek wines are worth seeking out. For more information, visit the Boutari website.
