At a glance

Producer

Harbor Slate Vineyards

Region

California, USA

Grape variety

Assyrtiko

Wine type

White

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45 (per 750ml bottle retail, estimated)

Tasting profile

Bright citrus, green apple, white peach, wet stone minerality, and subtle saline notes. Crisp and refreshing with lively acidity.

Evolution: Develops more complex mineral and saline layers with hints of almond and slight honeyed undertones around years 3-5.

At peak: Balanced integration of fruit, minerality, and subtle textural richness with lingering citrus and saline finish.

Structure

Acidity

High acidity typical of Assyrtiko, providing strong freshness and aging backbone

Tannins

None (white wine, not tannic)

Alcohol

Moderate to slightly elevated (estimated around 13-13.5%) fully integrated

Aging potential

5-7 years from vintage with maintained vibrancy

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2027

Optimal window

2023 to 2028

Current status

Ready to drink

Current condition

Fresh, expressive with youthful vibrancy typical of 2023 vintage

The 2023 vintage's freshness and vibrancy peak in the mid-term as primary fruit integrates with the wine's strong minerality and acidity. Peak period captures harmony between brightness and developing complexity before gradual fruit fade and softer acidity post-peak.

Food pairing

Excellent with seafood (grilled fish, calamari), shellfish (oysters, clams), Greek-inspired dishes (tzatziki, grilled octopus), fresh salads, and light Mediterranean cuisine. As wine evolves, pairs well with richer shellfish or creamy lemon sauces.

Serving

Serving temperature

10-12°C / 50-54°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Harbor Slate Vineyards is known to employ sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking, focusing on site expression and vineyard health.

While no official sustainability certifications found, producer's ethos aligns with environmentally conscious farming and winemaking.