Retsina - From Roots to Refinement 

Retsina is more than just a wine—it is a living link to Greece’s ancient past. Born in Attica over 2,000 years ago, this unique white wine is infused with pine resin, giving it its signature aroma and crisp freshness. Today, Retsina is being rediscovered, offering a new generation of wine lovers a taste of history in every sip.

A Wine of History & Myth:

The story of Retsina begins in antiquity, when the ancient Athenians discovered that sealing wine jars with pine resin not only preserved their wine but also gave it a distinct and pleasant aroma. This method, born in Attica, spread across Greece and became a signature of Greek winemaking. Today, Retsina remains one of Greece’s most iconic wines, blending tradition with innovation.

How Retsina is Made:

Retsina is crafted by adding small amounts of pine resin to the must during fermentation. This process enhances the wine’s freshness and imparts its characteristic resinous aroma, perfectly balancing citrusy and herbal notes. The most traditional and ideal grape variety for Retsina is Savatiano, which thrives in Attica’s warm climate, producing wines with rich body and smooth texture.

The Process at a Glance

  1. ?arvesting of Savatiano grapes at peak ripeness.
  2. Gentle pressing and fermentation with natural pine resin.
  3. Careful removal of excess resin after fermentation.
  4. Bottling and aging, allowing the flavors to integrate beautifully.

Retsina is refreshing and aromatic, with bright acidity and a lingering pine, citrus, and herbal character. It is an incredibly food-friendly wine, pairing beautifully with bold Mediterranean flavors.

Tasting Profile:

Aromas: Pine, lemon peel, rosemary, thyme.
Flavors: Green apple, citrus, resinous freshness.
Body: Medium-bodied, crisp acidity, lingering herbal notes.

Perfect Pairings:

Seafood & Grilled Octopus – The crispness of Retsina enhances the briny flavors of the sea.
Greek Mezze & Feta Cheese – The wine’s herbal notes balance salty cheeses and olive oil-based dishes.
Spicy & Asian Cuisine – Surprisingly, Retsina complements sushi, Thai, and Indian dishes with its bold character.

 

Retsina Today: A New Era:

Retsina has entered a new golden age. Today’s winemakers craft refined, high-quality expressions that preserve tradition while embracing modern techniques. Whether you’re new to Retsina or rediscovering it, Attica is the best place to experience this legendary wine at its finest.