Assyrtiko. Crisp. Citrus. Lively.

If there is one bottle I genuinely love opening at Nectar, it is our Assyrtiko. Not only because of how it tastes, but because every time the cork comes out, it starts a story at the table.

On our menu we describe it in three words. Crisp. Citrus. Lively.

Those three words capture exactly what happens in the glass. It feels bright and energetic, refreshing without being simple, and perfectly suited to the way we like to eat and drink.

The Crystals Everyone Asks About

One of my favourite moments happens before anyone even tastes the wine. When we open a chilled bottle, guests sometimes notice small crystal-like icicles around the cork or the rim of the bottle. At first, people are unsure what they are seeing.

These are natural tartrate crystals that form when the wine gets cold. Instead of being a flaw, they are often a sign of quality. They show that the wine has kept its natural structure and has not been over-processed.

I love explaining this because it turns curiosity into excitement. Suddenly the wine already feels special before the first sip.

Greece’s Flagship White Grape

Assyrtiko is widely considered the flagship white grape of Greece. Known for its mineral backbone and vibrant acidity, it delivers a style of white wine that feels clean and precise.

We always wanted a Greek white on the list that could sit comfortably alongside our food. The Mediterranean influence on our menu naturally calls for something fresh and lively, and Assyrtiko fits that role perfectly.

Compared to heavier whites, it feels lighter on the palate but still carries enough structure to stand up to bold flavours.

Why Greek Wine Is Not Always Recognised

Guests often ask why Greek wine is not as famous as Italian or French wine, especially considering that the ancient Greeks were producing wine long before many others.

The reality is surprisingly simple. Many visitors to Greece experience wine that has been stored outside in the sun, exposed to heat and light. That damages the wine and stops it from showing its true character. People leave with the impression that Greek wine is average, when in reality they have never tasted it properly.

When someone tries our Assyrtiko for the first time at Nectar, that perception often changes instantly.

Why Assyrtiko Works at Nectar

This has become one of the most versatile bottles on our list. Its crisp citrus profile and lively structure allow it to move effortlessly across the menu. It complements Greek-inspired dishes naturally, but it also works beautifully with vegetables, seafood or simply as a glass to start the evening.

If you have read my thoughts on pairing wine with food, you will know that I encourage guests to choose wines that support the overall feeling of the table rather than focusing on strict rules. Assyrtiko does exactly that.

A Bottle That Changes Expectations

There is always a small moment of surprise when someone takes their first sip. The wine feels brighter than expected, refreshing yet layered, and often becomes a talking point for the rest of the evening.

For me, that reaction is why this bottle has become my favourite to open at Nectar. It carries history, starts conversations and reminds people that Greek wine deserves a place at the centre of the table.

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