We had the pleasure of attending the Five Course Greek Wine Pairing Experience at Panagiota’s Taste of Greece in Shepherdstown, and what a treat it was! As a fan of Greek food, I’ve never had it presented so authentically and thoughtfully—this was a meal that celebrated culture, community, and flavor in every bite.
We kicked things off with a surprise amuse-bouche: a delicate lotus bite that was light, refreshing, and a perfect palate cleanser. Then came the Taramasalata with salmon roe on fried pita—just one bite, but bursting with flavor. It wasn’t overly fishy at all, and paired beautifully with the crisp, floral notes of the Papagiannakos Savatiano 2023.
Next was the dish that surprised me the most: Octopodi & Saganaki. I’ve never had octopus before and expected something rubbery—but it was the opposite! Meaty, tender, and so well-balanced by the lemon and oregano. The Gaïa Monograph Assyrtiko added the perfect touch of minerality and citrus to round out the dish. The fried saganaki cheese was a fun, salty contrast.
Then came the Lamb Tartar, paired with a bold Papagiannakos Kalogeri 2019. The lamb was minced and topped with capers, garlic, and a rich egg yolk dijon—every bite was creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying.
The Cornish Game Hen with Macarunias was one of my favorites of the night. The hen was baked to perfection—crispy skin, juicy meat—and served with hand-rolled macaroni and sautéed onions. The Gaïa Estate 2021 added just the right earthy, oaky note to complement the depth of flavor in the dish.
To close it out, we were served Portokalopita—a traditional Greek cake with phyllo, orange syrup, and Grand Marnier, drizzled with fig reduction. It was sweet, citrusy, and decadent without being heavy. The Gaïa Ritinitis Nobilis Retsina 2023 brought out the fruity, aromatic elements in a way that tied the whole meal together.
What truly made the evening special was the hospitality—from the passionate staff to the friendly attendees, it felt more like a family dinner than a formal event. By the end of the night, we were laughing and sharing stories with new friends. If you’re looking for a unique culinary experience that’s as rich in heart as it is in flavor, this is it.