January 9, 2026 | is the heat on?

Is the Heat On?

Okay, so the sun has been lovely the past few days. But we have had a chill that has stuck with us for the last few weeks that we just can't shake despite our appreciation of the warm rays. This week, we're attempting to distract ourselves by pouring wines from warm, Mediterranean climates. Starting in Greece with a salty assyrtiko, we'll bop over to Rhône Valley for a decadently delightful syrah, and finish our journey in Sicily with a rustic and brawny nerello mascalase - nerello cappuccio blend. 

When thinking about wines from Mediterranean climates, you can come to expect certain things due to the long growing seasons filled with moderate to warm temperatures. Wines tend to be fuller in body, with lower acidity, and higher potential alcohol content while showcasing riper and more robust fruit. And right now, we could use the warmth.

The Lineup: Athanasiou Winery Assyrtiko Peloponnese PGI 2024; Domaine de L'Ecu 'Love & Grapes Nobis' Syrah Vin de France 2023; Azienda Agricola Calabretta 'Cala Cala' Vino Rosso Sicily NV

Read on to learn more about what we're sampling, then stop by on Friday from 4-7pm to try them yourself!

Athanasiou Winery Assyrtiko Peloponnese PGI 2024

Domaine de L'Ecu 'Love & Grapes Nobis' Syrah Vin de France 2023

Azienda Agricola Calabretta 'Cala Cala' Vino Rosso Sicily NV