Gavalas family winery, one of the oldest on the island of Santorini, lies in the village of Megalochori. The stone building, built along traditional lines, used to double as a distillery making canava, a local spirit, and has retained many of its original features including the cellars and grape stomping rooms. Now, though, these have been joined by a modern addition with high-tech equipment to produce wines of the highest quality. The aim of the Gavalas family, which includes fourth-generation winemaker George and his son Vagelis, is to highlight the characteristics of Santorini’s unique volcanic terroir and a variety of indigenous grape varieties that includes not only Assyrtiko, Aidani, Mandilaria and Mavrotragano, but the much rarer Katsano and Voudomato. This blend of Assyrtiko, Monemvasia and Athiri has aromas of green apple and citrus laced with fine stoney minerality. All supported by a medium body and crisp acidity.
