Gaía Thalassitis Submerged 2017
Every year since 2009, Gaia has submerged approximately 500 bottles of their Thalassitis off the east coast of Santorini. Down in the depths of the ocean and under exception conditions of stable temperatures, the wines are left to age. Sitting away from light and unaffected by oxygen. Today, at 20m depth, an underwater cellar is formed, which at any given moment hosts 4 consecutive vintages of Thalassitis.
With the first attempt in 2009, only 3 bottles made it back to the surface fully intact. Out of the 2010s and 2011s, 258 and 141 bottles survived respectively. Unfortunately, the depth of 30 meters was too ambitious and the high pressure damaged the majority of the bottles of both 2012 and 2013.
From these challenges, the winery changed the depth of submersion, and the corks. The results were better that expected. Both 2015 and 2016 respectively ”returned” 407 and 497 intact, incredible bottles.
As per every past vintage, the outcome of the 4-year-long stay in the underwater cellar is impressive. The wine has a smoky aromatic dimension and a hydrocarbon note. The wine has become rounder, giving the impression of an evolved wine. At the same time, the colour suggests a misleading youth, whereas any sign of oxidation is absent. This is a rare ”hybrid” wine that balances between youth and maturity.
It is a bone-dry wine with strong character. Full-bodied, well-structured with crisp acidity, distinctive minerality, and delicate honeysuckle aromas. All the Assyrtiko grapes selected for Thalassitis originate exclusively from Gaia's vineyards in Akrotiri, Episkopi, and Pyrgos regions. The vines are almost 80 years old and have a particularly low-yield.
It is best recommended to decant this wine for 30 to 60 minutes before serving. This will help to reveal the wine’s depth and complexity. Serve at 10oC with seafood, fish, shellfish or even lamb stewed in lemon sauce, generally with flavours of moderate-intensity, where salt, sour or oil predominate.
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Assyrtiko
Country - Greece
Region - Santorini
Vintage - 2017
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13%