Scala Vinoteca in Athens, Greece

We had the chance to try a restaurant my wife found on the internet that was known for innovative food and had a good wine list. Scala Vinoteca was a short cab ride from our hotel. Being Americans with dinner times earlier than most of Europe we got there just as they were opening. As soon as we were seated Amanda came over and poured a sparkling Assyrtiko from Santo Wines. I introduced myself and told her that I was there to learn more about Greek wines. She was more than willing to guide us through the wines. 

The amuse-bouche

Amanda, decanting the Hatzidakis Mavrotragagno

With Amanda's help we picked out some appetizers and started to figure out our main course so we could order the wine. There were non Greek wines on the list but I ignored them. It was my first time in Greece and I only wanted Greek wines. Amanda suggested a few reds but then I saw there was a wine from Hatzidakis. I had been reading the extremely informative book, The Wines of Greece by Konstantinos Lazarakis MW to get ready for our trip. I learned that the winemaker had decided to leave this world all too early. Haridimos Hatzidakis challenged many of the accepted practices in  Greek wine making  and made unique wines. Amanda said she only had two bottles so I knew I had to taste it. 

After Amanda decanted the wine I asked her to pick out a white wine for the appetizers. She wanted us to try two different whites and brought out these wines. 

The wine on the left came from Crete and was made with 100% Plyto grapes and was nicely rich.. The wine on the right was from northern Greece and was a blend of Malagousia, Assyrtiko and Roditis and was crisp and refreshing.  

The restaurant had a nice vibe, friendly staff and great food.  It began filling up quickly, we were glad we had reservations. Our main courses were lamb tenderloin and lobster  bolognese. Both were delicious.

While the wine was a bit young the decanting helped open it up. It got deeper and denser as the night went on. Dark fruits and a nice hint of coffee made it interesting. I'ts possible the other wines Amanda suggested may have been a better match but I could not pass up the chance to try this wine. I didn't know if I would ever have a chance to try a wine made by  Haridimos.  We made sure that  Amanda got to have a taste. 

For dessert Amanda heard us trying to decide if we should get one or two desserts. We picked one but two came out. She told us it was compliments of the house. We finished with a nice vinsanto picked out for us. This was one of the best meals I have had in a long time. Everyone was friendly and helpful, the wine and food are amazing. If you are in Athens, Scala Vinoteca should be on the top of your restaurant list. Enjoy the food and put yourself in Amanda's hands as we did.