Jim Barry Assyrtiko 2026

Jim Barry Assyrtiko is a crisp, dry Clare Valley white made from the Greek grape of Santorini, which the Barry family was the first to plant in Australia.

Peter Barry tasted Assyrtiko on a visit to Santorini in 2006 and was struck by how its firm natural acidity reminded him of Clare Valley Riesling. He brought cuttings back from the island, waited out two years of quarantine, and planted the first vines at the family's Lodge Hill vineyard in 2012. A small first commercial release followed in 2016, the first Assyrtiko made in Australia. The variety copes well with heat and dry conditions while holding its acidity, which suits the Clare's warm days and cool nights. Plantings have since spread to several of the family's sites, and the wine is made in a pure, fresh style.

Chill it well and bring out the seafood. Grilled octopus, salt and pepper squid, whole baked snapper with lemon, or a Greek salad with feta all suit its dry, citrus-edged style. It is at its best young, though good vintages can develop for five years or more.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.