Ed wrote on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 11:00:02 -0500:

>> On Mon, 5 Apr 2010 11:03:53 -0400, "James Silverton"
>> > wrote:
>>
>>> Thanks to everyone for the interesting information on wine
>>> history and also the references. I know the stories about
>>> the origin of the Greek taste for Retsina but I've only
>>> tried the stuff twice and I don't intend to try again :-)
>>
>> May I ask why you tried it the 2nd time? :-)
>>
>> Retsina is not available where I live but I would have to try
>> it no matter what horror stories I've heard.
>>
>> If it is so terrible, who is drinking this stuff? Are there
>> foods that make it palatable?
>>
>> Inquiring minds want to know.

> Retsina (like grappa, eau de vie, marc and other
> after-pressing products although retsina not a distillate) is
> found in a broad range of qualities. A lot is akin to lacquer
> or shellac with a hint of jet fuel on the nose.

> But, I had the privilege several years ago when on a NATO
> operation to be invited to the home of a Greek AF general who
> served a friend and me a magnificent dinner topped with a
> delicious lamb roast. Red wines accompanied the meal, but in
> conversation after dinner he asked if we would like to try
> something special.

> He went to the basement and returned with a crystal pitcher
> filled with a glowing pink wine, brilliant and clear,
> reflecting the living room lights. He filled small glasses and
> we sat to hear the story.

> His father had four sons. He lived on a small vineyard and
> olive grove. Each year his father takes some of the grapes and
> makes this pink retsina. He makes four barrels per year and
> give one to each son. We all agreed that he had received a
> very special birthright.

> That was retsina at its finest. Clearly such wines are not
> going to be found in American markets and would probably be
> difficult to find even in Greece.

I tried it the second time about a year after the first time to make
sure my first impressions were correct. Alas, I'll never meet the
wonderful stuff you describe :-(

--

James Silverton
Potomac, Maryland

Email, with obvious alterations: not.jim.silverton.at.verizon.not