Parparoussis Sideritis Gift of Dionysos 2022

Region: Patras, Greece

Grape Variety: Sideritis

gardenia, fresh green melon, kiwi, green figs

Athanasios Parparoussis established his urban winery in 1974 in Bozaitika of Patras. However, his vineyards are outside of town where he grows a vast array of indigenous varieties that were in danger of being lost. Today he is joined by his daughters, Erifili and Dimitra, who continue his legacy crafting some of the country’s most sought after wines.

This wine is produced entirely from the Sideritis grape, a pink skinned variety that is often blended with Roditis. The Parparoussis family produce one of the only pure examples and after reading their tech sheets I understand why. The production of this variety is only 1/3 of a ton per acre, that is the equivalent of 40 bottles of wine per acre. I am not sure how they sell it for $30 a bottle but thank heavens for a strong dollar.

Serve this wine a touch warmer, say 50 degrees, as the aromatics are positively enchanting. This wine oozes notes of gardenia, fresh green melon, kiwi, green figs with a slightly smokey note from volcanic soils. On the palate it is nicely rich for a moment with nice lift and focus into the finish. Serve with grilled grouper with olive oil and lemon or slow braised chicken thighs with lemon, oregano and spinach.