Malamatina Retsina 500ML

Malamatina Retsina 500ML is a classic Greek resinated white wine bottled at 11% ABV in a 500ml format. Produced by one of Greece's oldest retsina houses — E. Malamatinas & Son S.A., founded in 1895 — this expression earned an 86/100 from Wine & Spirits Magazine and has received Silver recognition at the Thessaloniki International Wine & Spirit Competition.

Quick Facts: ABV: 11%  |  Origin: Greece  |  Style: Retsina (Resinated White Wine)  |  Producer: E. Malamatinas & Son S.A.

Production & Heritage

E. Malamatinas & Son S.A. was established in 1895 in Alexandroupoli by Konstantinos Malamatinas and now operates facilities in Kalubia and Thessaloniki. The wine is made from Savatiano and Rhoditis grapes — the traditional varietals of Greek retsina — using only the "mosto yema" or flower must, which is the prized free-run juice extracted before pressing. Fermentation takes place at controlled temperatures with a small addition of pine resin, the defining ingredient that gives retsina its character while allowing the natural fruit aromatics of the grape to remain prominent.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Fragrant citrus fruit and green apple lead the nose, followed by gentle herbal tones and a signature whisper of pine. The resinous quality is present but restrained, allowing the floral, fruity character of the Savatiano and Rhoditis blend to come through clearly.

Taste: The entry is bright and citrus-driven, with lemon zest and crisp green apple. At mid-palate, subtle earthy notes emerge alongside fresh pine needles, and a delicate balance of acidity and mineral freshness keeps the wine lively. The pine resin integrates smoothly rather than dominating, lending texture and complexity.

Finish: Dry and refreshing, with a moderate finish that leaves lingering traces of citrus peel and soft pine. The acidity carries through cleanly, making it an immediately moreish wine in warm weather.

How to Drink Malamatina

Serve well chilled — ideally between 6–8°C — straight from the refrigerator or over ice in casual settings. Malamatina's crisp acidity and pine-citrus profile make it a natural fit for several mixed-wine drinks. A Retsina Spritz pairs the wine with soda water and a lemon twist for a low-ABV refresher. A Greek Sangria benefits from Malamatina's herbal, resinous backbone when combined with sliced stone fruits and a splash of brandy. For a simple Pine Collins, mix the retsina with gin, lemon juice, and a touch of honey syrup to play up the shared botanical character.

Best For

• Pairing with a traditional Greek meze spread of olives, feta, and grilled octopus
• Introducing friends to authentic retsina at a summer gathering
• Casual outdoor dining where a crisp, food-friendly wine is needed
• Exploring historic wine styles rooted in ancient Mediterranean tradition

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Malamatina taste like? Malamatina delivers bright citrus and green apple flavors balanced by a subtle, refreshing pine-resin character and dry, clean acidity. It is lighter and more fruit-forward than many expect from a resinated wine.

How does Malamatina compare to Kourtaki Retsina? Both brands have been the dominant commercial retsina producers since 1895 and share the Savatiano grape base, but Malamatina is generally regarded as slightly softer and more fruit-driven, while Kourtaki tends toward a more pronounced resinous intensity. The choice often comes down to personal preference for subtlety versus boldness in the pine character.

Is Malamatina good for beginners exploring retsina? Yes — its controlled use of flower must and restrained pine-resin addition make it one of the most approachable retsinas available, giving newcomers an authentic taste of the style without overwhelming resinous bite.

Where is Malamatina made? Malamatina is produced in Greece by E. Malamatinas & Son S.A., with production facilities located in Kalubia (near Athens) and Thessaloniki. The company was originally founded in Alexandroupoli in 1895.

What foods pair well with Malamatina? Grilled seafood such as shrimp or sardines complements the wine's citrus acidity. Spanakopita and other phyllo-based pastries echo its herbal notes. Briny feta and Kalamata olives mirror the wine's mineral edge. Hummus and warm pita offer a creamy counterpoint to its dry finish. Lightly dressed Greek salad with tomato and cucumber is perhaps the most classic match.

What sizes does Malamatina come in? The 500ml bottle is the signature format and is widely available; it can also be found in standard 750ml bottles in certain markets.

Is Malamatina worth the price? Malamatina positions firmly as an entry-level, everyday wine with strong value credentials — an 86-point rating from Wine & Spirits Magazine and international competition silvers reinforce that it punches above its modest price tier.

Why Malamatina?

Few retsina producers can claim over 125 years of continuous production, and Malamatina's use of flower must — the free-run juice extracted before any mechanical pressing — sets it apart from mass-market competitors that rely on pressed juice. That production choice preserves delicate fruit aromatics and keeps the pine resin in supporting rather than starring role. With verified recognition from Wine & Spirits Magazine (86/100) and Silver medals at the Thessaloniki IWSC, Malamatina stands as the benchmark introduction to one of the world's oldest wine styles — and one of the most affordable ways to experience a tradition that stretches back to ancient Greece.