Raising a Glass to the Wine Century Club



By Kori ~ May 12th, 2009.

The Wine Century Club turned 4 last Thursday. The Club was founded by Steve and Deborah De Long in 2005 to promote “the many unsung grape varieties used to make wine.”

Dad (John) and I became members of the Wine Century Club last year after tasting at least 100 different grape varieties. While we have our favorites, we never want to stop learning and trying new things. The Wine Century Club encourages just that spirit. Instead of drinking your favorite Merlot or Chardonnay again, consider trying Nebbiolo or Aglianico.

2006 Kretikos Boutari White Wine of CreteEven though we already have our membership certificates, we still enjoy trying new varieties. Maybe someday we’ll even qualify for the new Doppel Member recognition level for those who have tasted over 200 different grape varieties. To celebrate the Club’s 4th birthday, we raised a glass of a new-to-us variety, Vilana. We enjoyed the 2006 Kretikos Boutari White Wine of Crete. While not the best wine we’ve ever had, it was definitely drinkable and would be a nice summer sipper. In addition to being a variety we had not previously tasted, it also gave us a taste of Greek wine, something that we do not have very often.

For those interested in membership or just looking for a new challenge, you can download an application form. And while it is completely on the honor system, as the application says, “Should you lie, may the wrath of Bacchus curse your palate!”

2006 Kretikos Boutari White Wine of Crete (Crete, Greece): Grape variety: Vilana. Yellow in color. Aromas of wet hay, rotten eggs, and sulfur. Pear, grass, and butterscotch come through on the palate. Dry and lively with a long finish. Tastes much better than it smells. Would be a nice summer sipper or pair well with seafood.
Quality: 3 stars (out of 5)
QPR: 4 bangs for your buck (out of 5)
Where to Buy: Spec’s Wines, Spirits, & Finer Foods (Texas), $10; Available elsewhere, $12 to $15


Filed under: Greek Wine, Lesser Known Varietals, White Wine, Wine Century Club, Wines Under $15, Wines Under $20, Wines Under $25

Comments are closed.