The 2001 ASSYRTIKO BARREL FERMENTED is focused and powerful, maturing, but still young-ish, showing tight and powerful. The lingering, intense finish may have a touch of tannin. Although I have not been a big fan of oak on Assyrtiko (or most other white Greek grapes), Sigalas handles oak beautifully. In this instance, the oak fermented version shows more focus and intensity and seems younger and fresher. It is very fine. Drink now-2012. I had probably my best tasting in Greece at this fine estate on Santorini. On Santorini, 80% of the ancient, pre-phylloxera vineyard area is planted with white grapes. All but 10% of that is Assyrtiko, and by law a Santorini appellation white must be at least 75% Assyrtiko. So, a winery here must master this difficult but very fine grape to succeed. Sigalas does, consistently producing superb Assyrtiko, either dry, steely and unoaked; or with oak (no small achievement), or in the sweet Vinsanto style. Some library wines are included to illustrate the winery’s track record and consistency. Granting that the weather on Santorini is often said to produce good vintages on a fairly consistent basis, this is still an impressive track record.Importer: Diamond Importers, Chicago, IL; tel: (773) 549-6211