2024 Ktima Gerovassiliou Malagousia, Macedonia

There’s nothing like Santorini Assyrtico – but there’s nothing like Malagousia from Greek Macedonia’s Epanomi, either. At first sniff, you might think it’s a member of the Muscat family. Keep sniffing and it might put you in mind of both Viognier and Albariño: it has both a visceral, honeycream charm as well as fluttering with rose petal and freesia floral notes, too. Nor does it disappoint on the palate: all of that aromatic richness is there, built into a whole in which you can find both brisk, apple-fresh acidity and the soft, cleansing bitter notes of dried herbs and grapefruit. It’s quite a performer, as you see, and a sure-fire conversation wine for serving with or without food. If you or your wine friends have never tried it, seek this wine out: it will expand your horizons.

97 points Best In Show Decanter World Wine Awards 2025

Ktima Gerovassiliou Malagousia from Macedonia in northern Greece is the benchmark expression of a grape that was nearly extinct until Vangelis Gerovassiliou rescued it in the late 20th century. This estate was the first to commercially revive Malagousia, transforming it from obscurity into one of Greece’s most exciting and distinctive white varieties.

The wine is grown on the estate’s coastal vineyards near Epanomi, where cooling sea breezes and sandy clay soils create ideal conditions for vibrant aromatics and natural acidity. Fruit is handpicked, cold-soaked for enhanced aroma, then fermented in stainless steel with a portion matured briefly in seasoned oak on lees to add texture and complexity.

On the nose, it bursts with ripe pear, nectarine, lemon blossom, green melon and a gentle herbal edge. The palate is medium-bodied and supple, showing juicy stone fruit, citrus zest and a soft, rounded mouthfeel balanced by saline freshness. There’s a quiet elegance and Mediterranean charm to this wine that makes it both intriguing and incredibly drinkable.

Perfect with grilled calamari, stuffed zucchini flowers, soft cheeses or roasted chicken with lemon and oregano. Enjoy now or over the next few years for maximum freshness and charm.