Greece, a country with a long winemaking tradition, has developed into an emerging wine region in recent years. The diversity of wine regions in Greece is impressive. From the verdant islands to the mountains of the mainland, from the fertile valleys to the steep slopes, the various wine regions offer unique terroirs and grape varieties to discover.
Crete: Mediterranean wine enjoyment from southern Greece
The island of Crete, one of Greece's most famous wine regions, is located in the south of the country. With its mild temperatures, Mediterranean climate, and fertile soils, Crete is an ideal area for viticulture. The main grape varieties grown in Crete are Savatiano for white wines and Kotsifali for red wines . The vineyards cover an area of over 7,000 hectares and offer an interesting variety of aromas and flavors.
Peloponnese: Greece's peninsula of diverse wines
The Peloponnese, a peninsula in southern Greece, is a unique wine region. Covering over 25,000 hectares, wine production on this peninsula extends across several areas. The most famous area is Nemea , known for its outstanding red wines made from the Agiorgitiko grape variety. The grapes thrive in calcareous soils, lending the wines a distinctive character. In addition to Nemea, the Peloponnese offers a wealth of other wine-growing regions and grape varieties waiting to be discovered.
Santorini: Elegant wines from the dream island
Santorini, a charming island in the Aegean Sea, is distinguished by its unique winemaking technique and the use of the Assyrtiko grape variety. The vines are trained in basket-shaped trellises to protect them from strong winds and direct sunlight. The island's volcanic soil gives the wines a mineral note and remarkable freshness . Wine production on Santorini may be small, but the quality is exceptional.
Other wine regions in Greece
In addition to the wine regions mentioned above, there are many other areas in Greece that are important for viticulture.
- Epirus in northwestern Greece offers a cool climate and rich soil, creating ideal conditions for growing varieties such as Xinomavro.
- Thrace, on the other hand, is a region in the northeast and plays an important role in Greek viticulture. Thrace is particularly known for its wines made from the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grape varieties.
Other regions to explore in Greece include:
- Macedonia,
- Central Greece,
- Thessaly and
- the Ionian Islands.
Each region has its own identity and offers a wide range of grape varieties and wine styles . From smaller, emerging areas to established wine regions, Greece is a country worth exploring in the field of viticulture.
Although Greek wine production is still dominated by white wines , red wines are becoming increasingly important. In addition to traditional wines, Greece also has a unique wine variety called Retsina, in which the resin of the Aleppo pine tree is added during fermentation, imparting a distinctive, resinous flavor .
Wine regions in Greece: Here the wines of the gods are made
Amidst the rich history of Greek viticulture and the diversity of wine regions the country has to offer, Greece is undoubtedly a rising star on the wine horizon . From the sun-drenched slopes of Crete to the volcanic soils of Santorini and the fertile valleys of the Peloponnese, each region has its own history and distinctive grape varieties . Discover the taste experience of aromatic white wines and exquisite red wines. Immerse yourself in the magical world of Greek wine and let yourself be seduced by the authentic flavors and charm of this fascinating wine country.
Greece in a glass: Enjoy wine like a god with CorkRebels
Greek wines reflect the country's rich culture and tradition, offering you incomparable moments of enjoyment.
Our wine lover Penny , a Greek herself and wine expert, has selected the best wines for CorkRebels . Experience the aromas of citrus, berries, and Mediterranean spices – pure Greek culinary culture. Santé!