Wine Director Kamal Kouiri

While at Molyvos since 2001, this passionate purveyor of Greek viticulture has continually developed his expert palate and delights in sharing his latest finds with guests. Under Kamal’s direction, Molyvos is now home to the most extensive selection of Greek wines in the United States, with the 400-bottle list he curates featuring many boutique producers from all regions of Greece, and verticals that showcase its red and white wines. In addition, Kouiri also stocks over a dozen different kinds of ouzo, the national aperitif. “Both Greek wine and ouzo are drinks many Americans may not be familiar with,” he says, “I always enjoy being able to educate our guests a bit while also encouraging them to try something new that pairs perfectly with our food. After all, you can’t really experience a taste of Greece without wine or ouzo.”

Kouiri’s enthusiasm for Greek viticulture flourished during his extensive travels to Hellenic vineyards. During his time traveling throughout the country he met with winemakers and grape growers, acquiring an understanding of their distinctive philosophies and methods for producing wine. He has an extensive knowledge of the more than 60 indigenous grape varietals grown throughout the country and prides himself on introducing labels and a plethora of varietals that are exclusively available at Molyvos. The wine list boasts over 400 Greek wines, 50 of which are available by the glass, and include 10 unique dessert wines.

In order to sustain his knowledge of the latest innovations in vinification, Kouiri travels to Greece at least once a year to tour different wineries and meet winemakers. He also uses this time as an opportunity to attend the annual wine festival.

Kouiri’s work and his dedication to Greek viticulture has been recognized by Wine Enthusiast’s “Award of Unique Distinction” and helped Molyvos become identified as one of Wine Enthusiast’s “Five Best Wine Bars in New York City”. He is also a regular contributor to a variety of wine publications, including Wine and Spirits and Wine Enthusiast.