The white varieties benefited from the lack of rainfall and lengthy heatwave throughout the summer, which resulted in the production of high-quality fruit. Thus, Assyrtiko produced magnificent wines thanks to the excellent balance between the acidity and sugars in the grapes.
The vinification process starts with pre-fermentation maceration. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in new oak barrels of varying origins and types, and is followed by ageing for 6 months on the lees with regular bâtonnage. At the end of the fermentation Aleppo pine resin extract is added.
Residual sugar content 3,7g/l
Acidity 6,8 g/l
Aging potential up to 10 years.
Serve at 12-14 ºC with dolma with rice and vegetables, seafood, white fish fried with mint and lemon, chicken fried with rosemary.
Just a few kilometers from Thessaloniki, in the heart of Northern Greece, lies the family-owned Kechris Winery – one of the region’s oldest guardians of winemaking tradition. Its story began back in 1911, when Evangelos Kechris brought the first glass bottles to Greece from America and began bottling wine.
Today, Kechris Winery is renowned for producing authentic Greek Retsina, masterfully combining deep-rooted tradition with a modern approach. Their iconic “Kechribari” (meaning “Amber” in Greek) was first produced in 1939, and in 2003 it became the first Retsina to be awarded a gold medal at the international wine fair in Thessaloniki.
Wine Style
Kechris wines stand out for their respect for tradition, elegance, and the subtle expression of pine resin character. The winery’s flagship, “Tear of the Pine” Retsina, has been produced since 2005 from 100% Assyrtiko grapes, aged in barrels, with only a minimal amount of resin added. The result is a fresh, mineral wine that has earned gold medals at prestigious global wine competitions.
Vineyards
Kechris works with carefully selected vineyards nestled in the rolling hills of Northern Greece, where Assyrtiko develops exceptional structure and freshness. Attention to terroir and a sustainable approach allow the creation of authentic wines tailored to a global palate.
Aging & Enjoyment
Kechris Retsina wines are versatile: “Kechribari” pairs perfectly with traditional Greek cuisine, while “Tear of the Pine” is a refined, aged wine ideal for those who appreciate uniqueness and seek new experiences from a classic region.
