Greek Wines

Greek wines have a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The country’s diverse climate, geography, and native grape varieties contribute to the unique characteristics of Greek wines.

Today, it’s known for a diverse range of indigenous grape varieties and distinctive wine styles, with regions like Santorini and Nemea standing out. Popular grapes include Assyrtiko, Agiorgitiko, Xinomavro, and Moschofilero, each producing wines with their own unique character.

Key Points About Greek Wines

• Ancient Winemaking Tradition:

Greece is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, with evidence of winemaking dating as far back as 6,500 years ago.

Greece has a long-standing winemaking tradition, with roots in ancient Greek civilisation. Wine played a central role in Greek culture, mythology, and religious rituals.

• Unique Grape Varieties:

Greece boasts an array of indigenous grape varieties not commonly found elsewhere. These unique grape varieties give Greek wines their distinct flavours and aromas. Some notable examples include:

• • Assyrtiko: A white grape known for its crisp acidity and mineral notes, particularly from Santorini.

• • Agiorgitiko: A red grape variety primarily grown in Nemea, producing full-bodied wines with fruity flavors.

• • Xinomavro: A red grape variety from Naoussa, often compared to Barolo, known for its bold tannins and aging potential.

• • Moschofilero: A pink-skinned grape from the Peloponnese, producing aromatic white wines with floral and citrus notes.
  • Malagousia: an aromatic white grape, known for its expressive floral and stone fruit aromas, often with notes of peach, citrus, and fresh herbs.

• Greek Wine Regions:

Greece has several wine regions spread across the mainland and various islands, each with its own unique terroir and microclimate, influencing the character of the wines produced. Some of the prominent wine regions include Peloponnese, Macedonia, Central Greece, Crete, Santorini, and the Aegean Islands.

• • Santorini: Famous for its Assyrtiko wines, produced in volcanic soil that gives them a crisp, mineral character.

  • Nemea: Renowned for its Agiorgitiko wines, which are rich, fruity reds with soft tannins.

  • Naoussa: Known for its Xinomavro wines, often compared to Nebbiolo for their structure and ageing potential.

  • Peloponnese: A large and diverse wine region producing both reds and whites, including Moschofilero and Agiorgitiko.

  • Macedonia: Home to Naoussa and other high-quality areas, known for bold reds like Xinomavro and promising blends.

  • Central Greece: An emerging region producing accessible, fruit-forward wines from both local and international grapes.

  • Crete: Greece’s largest island wine region, making fresh whites and juicy reds from native varieties like Vidiano and Liatiko.

  • Aegean Islands: Scattered islands producing distinctive wines from native grapes, often shaped by sea breezes and volcanic soils.

• Modern Greek Winemaking

Today’s Greek winemakers blend ancient traditions with modern techniques. From small family-run estates to cutting-edge wineries, there’s a renewed focus on quality and showcasing native grapes. Styles range from natural and minimal-intervention wines to precise, clean expressions of regional terroir.

• Retsina: A Greek Original

One of Greece’s most unique wines is Retsina, made by adding pine resin during fermentation. Once a staple of Greek wine culture, it’s now made in more refined styles and pairs well with classic Greek dishes.

• Food Pairing:

Greek wines are often enjoyed with traditional Greek cuisine, known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavours.  Assyrtiko works brilliantly with seafood, while Agiorgitiko and Xinomavro complement grilled meats, stews, and spicy dishes.

In recent years, Greek wines have gained popularity in the UK and internationally, as consumers seek out new and unique wine experiences.

Greek Wines in the UK

In recent years, Greek wines have gained popularity in the UK as consumers are becoming more adventurous and seeking out new and unique wine experiences. Several Greek wine varieties have found a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts in the UK. Here are some popular Greek wines that you may find in the UK:

• Assyrtiko: Assyrtiko, particularly from the island of Santorini, has gained a significant following in the UK. Its crisp acidity, citrus flavours, and mineral notes make it a refreshing and food-friendly white wine option.
• Xinomavro: Xinomavro, often referred to as the “Barolo of Greece,” has been gaining recognition in the UK. Its structured tannins, red fruit flavours, and ageing potential have attracted wine lovers looking for bold and complex red wines.
• Agiorgitiko: Agiorgitiko, also known as St. George, is a versatile red grape variety from the region of Nemea. Its medium-bodied profile, soft tannins, and flavours of red fruits and spices make it an approachable and versatile option that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
• Moschofilero: Moschofilero is an aromatic white grape variety primarily grown in the Peloponnese region. Its floral aromas, lively acidity, and notes of citrus and stone fruits make it an appealing choice for those seeking aromatic and vibrant white wines.
• Greek Sparkling Wines: Sparkling wines from Greece, such as those made with the traditional method (méthode traditionnelle), have gained popularity in the UK. These sparkling wines, often made from native grape varieties, offer a unique alternative to Champagne and other sparkling wines.
• Greek Rosé Wines: Greek rosé wines have also seen a surge in popularity in the UK. Made from a variety of grape varieties, these rosés are known for their refreshing acidity, vibrant fruit flavours, and pale pink hues.