Robola: It's Viral

Amongst my favorite vinous gifts from the Greeks is Santorini.  It's a fine, crisp & unique white wine.  Until now, I have avoided, perhaps subconsciously, the other well-known Greek white called Robola.  It's name hearkened to another '-bola'-suffixed word, which is at the very least unappetizing.  When its entire name, "Robola of Cephalonia," is taken into consideration, the wine seems much more appealing.

The Skinny
Gentilini Robola of Cephalonia 2005 ($14)

• From the Island of Cephalonia - Greece's Ionian viticulture center
• Made of 100% Robola - an ungrafted, mountain-dwelling white grape
• Bright, lemon-yellow
• Scents of fresh yogurt, tinned pineapple, Mandarin orange and spring blossoms
• In the mouth, Robola is both zesty and creamy, with a full-bodied character and unique finish (sort of a citrus-yogurt burst)
• Highly recommended

A great springtime wine and perfect with grilled chicken or kabobs.  This wine is fairly rare, so if you find it, pounce on a bottle or two.  It's no terribly common these days to find value-priced wine that is truly unique.