Retsina wine is a traditional Greek wine that has been produced for thousands of years.
It is known for its distinct flavour, which is characterised by the presence of resin. The production of retsina wine involves fermenting white wine grapes with small pieces of Aleppo pine resin. The resin is added to the fermenting grape must, which imparts a unique flavour and aroma to the wine.
Historically, the resin was used as a sealant for the wine vessels, but over time it became integrated into the winemaking process itself.The resin used in retsina wine comes from the Aleppo pine tree (Pinus halepensis), which is native to the eastern Mediterranean region. The resin is obtained by making small incisions in the tree bark, allowing the sap to flow out and harden. The hardened resin is then collected and used in winemaking.
Retsina wine is typically white or rosé in colour and has a slightly viscous texture. It has a distinctive pine resin aroma, which can be quite strong and polarizing for some people.
The resin flavour is also present in the wine, giving it a unique and somewhat tangy taste. The level of resin flavour can vary depending on the producer, with some wines having a more pronounced resin character than others.Traditionally, Retsina wine was enjoyed alongside Greek cuisine, particularly dishes such as grilled meats, seafood, and mezze (appetisers).
It is often served chilled and is considered a refreshing and aromatic wine option.While retsina wine may not be to everyone's taste due to its resinous qualities, it holds cultural significance in Greece and remains a distinctive part of the country's winemaking heritage.