Greece, the famous homeland of Dionysus, the god of wine, has the longest history in the production and consumption of wine in the world, as well as the richest heritage. Greek wine has been produced for more than 4000 years.
The culture of wine, the consumption of wine as a social event and its refined appreciation, was developed for the first time by the ancient Greeks. There are clear indications that in ancient Athens it was known that the shape of the cups influenced the taste of the wine. Today Greece plays an important role in international culture and the wine industry. Greek winemakers, through a better understanding of the physiology of the vine, the combination of the location with the variety of vines and the attention to detail, have realized the potential for further development and improvement of domestic viticulture. There are dozens of visitable vineyards and wineries, which give the visitor the opportunity to tour the magical world of wine and wine, to get acquainted with traditional and modern winemaking methods and to taste fine Greek wines, combined with traditional flavours.
Agiorgitiko: King of red grapes in the Peloponnese, Agiorgitiko is cultivated in Nemea. It produces deep red wines with a strong taste of black currant and raspberry and a rich, ripe, velvety, delicious texture. The soft new crops of Agiorgitiko accompany fruit and are pleasant to drink while they are still young. However, there is the possibility of long-term storage (5-10 years).
Assyrtiko: Assyrtiko is the noblest white variety of the Greek vineyard, with a focus on cultivation in the Cyclades. However, he has successfully migrated to Halkidiki, Epanomi, Drama and Mount Paggaio in Northern Greece, but also to the Peloponnese. It maintains its high acidity even in the phase of full maturation. With crisp acidity and excellent minerality, its wines are rich and refreshing. Its aromas are reminiscent of citrus, lemon blossom, orange peel and grapefruit.
Athiri: Another white grape, found on the islands of the southern Aegean and in Halkidiki, in eastern Macedonia. The wine is characterized by aromas of low intensity, citrus and yellow fruits.
Debina: White variety from Epirus, with a focus on Zitsa, in the prefecture of Ioannina, These wines have an emphasis on fruit. Characteristic is their refreshing acidity. Debina enables the production of sparkling wines.
Liatiko: Exclusively Cretan grape, Liatiko is considered one of the oldest Greek varieties. It matures in July, from where it takes its name, which is an abbreviation of "Juliatiko". Liatiko is a variety with high alcoholic potential, whose excellent characteristics are highlighted in the best possible way, after it has matured sufficiently.
Limnio: Limnio is an ancient variety of red grapes from the island of Lemnos. Aristotle and other ancient writers have made references to this. the aroma of cherries.
Malagouzia This fine white Greek variety is probably related to the famous wine "Malvasia" of the Middle Ages. It was saved from oblivion thanks to the insight of some Greek producers who believed in it. The praise of the critics and the enthusiastic response of the consumers, have justified them. Malagouzia wines have a strong aroma, aromas reminiscent of muscat, while also leaving a slightly peppery taste in the mouth.
Savvatiano: Variety of Central Greece, with a focus on cultivation in Attica. Produces wines with aromas of yellow fruit and low acidity.
Kotsifali: Red Cretan grape, Kotsifali produces wines that are distinguished for their wonderful juicy taste, their bright red color and their good effect on the palate. It is usually mixed with another red island grape, Mandilaria.
To sample these magnificent wines, there are vineyard trips across the Peloponnese and beyond if you are in mainland Greece. A wine trail is the most superb excursion you can take, swirling rich punchy wines in the mouth whilst immersing yourself in the hazy golden tinctures of the mountains and vineyards. The Peloponnese Wine Trail is a delight for all connoisseurs.