Your Guide to Ema’s Favorite Wines
Enjoy globally-sourced sips with perfectly paired Mediterranean mezze
Whether you have an upcoming reservation at Ēma in River North or Glenview, are planning family dinner or searching for your next night out, Sommelier John C. Slatter can help you uncork the essence of Mediterranean summer with wine recommendations that everyone—including your own “Ēma”—will love! From rosé to bubbles, Ēma offers a robust list of more than 70 globally-sourced selections at the Glenview location alone, including wineries practicing organic and natural production with ancient grape varietals from Greece, Lebanon and Italy. Check out John’s picks for the best wines to enjoy with your mezze spread.
View the menus at Ēma in River North and Glenview and reserve now.
Chateau del Ish Zero-Proof Sparkling White
John says this delightful non-alcoholic option from Copenhagen, Denmark, combines Pinot Blanc and Sylvaner “for a subtly sweet and slightly bubbly start to the meal.” Even without the buzz, each glass leaves little to be desired, with notes of ripe red apple and juicy honeysuckle. Best as a celebratory start to a meal, or to end on a sweet note (along with a Frozen Greek Yogurt)! 
PERFECT PAIRING: House-Made Labneh with strawberry rhubarb jam, opal basic, lime and mint
Cabernet Franc, Makarounas “En Arhi”, Paphos, Cyprus, 2023
Red wine can be enjoyed al fresco, too! From Makarounas, a family-run winery boasting 4 generations of winemaking on the Island of Cyprus, this Cabernet Franc is a lighter style that is light on the tongue and drinkable, with notes of ripe raspberry, fresh violet and truffle – ideal for golden hour sipping.
PERFECT PAIRING: Red Beet Hummus with tahina, dill and olive oil
Savitiano, Mylonas “Naked Truth”, Attiki, GREECE, 2022
If you’re considering a bottle for the table, John recommends opting for “Naked Truth,” exclusive to Ēma – Glenview. He says that this orange wine from Mylonas, a winery in Athens, is crafted entirely from the Savatiano grape, a historical and popular grape that produces wine with notably fruity and herbal aromas. With a focus on organic and minimal intervention, this unfiltered selection brings a taste of Greece to the table. Yamas! 
PERFECT PAIRING: Truffled Salmon with roasted garlic, chive and crispy leek
Grenache et al., Esprit Gassier, Côtes de Provence, FRANCE, 2023
Beautifully fresh and vibrant, John says this rosé from acclaimed organic winery Chateau Gassier in the legendary rosé-producing region Côtes de Provence, is “round-bodied, fruity and ripe with notes of white peach, watermelon and orange blossom.” Ideal for sipping on the patio in River North or under the skylight in Glenview, this is John’s warm weather go-to all summer long! 
PERFECT PAIRING: Grilled Asparagus with ricotta salata, California bay leaf and ramp vinaigrette
Celebrating at home?
Add Ēma favorites to your summer party spreads with Mediterranean-inspired catering options such as the Mediterranean Feast, Spreads Platter, Boxed Lunches and a la carte favorites each serving 8-10 guests.
