Area grown: Mostly Attica, Evia and Viotia in Central Greece, also to a smaller extend in the Cycladic Islands, Macedonia and Peloponnese.
Quick Fact File: Savatiano is the most widely planted indigenous Greek grape variety. It has been traditionally used for the production of Retsina. Savatiano is also a popular blending partner for Assyrtiko and Roditis. Today, 100% Savatiano wines are able to surprise with outstanding quality. The best ones offer a great price/quality ratio.
Grapes: Savatiano is a vigorous variety, typically with low acidity. It is perfectly suited to the hotter regions of Greece, being very resistant to water stress. The grapes are medium sized, with a yellow/white colour. Harvest typically takes place late August/early September.
Nose/bouquet: Aromas of pear, apple, banana, lemon.
Perhaps my first realization as to the potential of Greek wine came a decade or so ago at a tasting where a Megapanos Savatiano was offered. As I recall, the yield was approximately the same 30hl/ha you mention in the video. Flavor profile aside, the length and concentration of that wine was phenomenal; it was unbelievable stuff. Not sure what happened to that “conception” of Megapanos Savatiano however. Subsequent vintages tasted never had the same stuffing. Perhaps a different vineyard source, cropping levels? Maybe the economics of the day couldn’t justify such extraction. The point being however there is clearly great potential in the “humble” savatiano. Hopefully market demand can draw it out.
Looking forward to Mylonas coming to the States, some year soon.