All You Need to Know About Greek Wines

Greece is one of the world's oldest wine-producing countries, with a rich history packed with legends and myths and a viticulture history going back over 6,500 years. Unique indigenous grape varieties, distinct terroirs, and the ambitious, innovative spirit of the young winemakers' generation make Greek wines better than ever.

But as multifaceted as the portfolio of Greek wine regions and styles is, it might be overwhelming at first glance. So it might help to summarize the key wine regions, famous grape varieties, and the factors that make Greek wine unique, to prepare you for your exploration of Greek wines.

A Brief History of Greek Wine

Winemaking in Greece dates back to 4,500 BC with the Greeks being among the first to cultivate grape vines systematically. Via trade and conquest, they were also the ones who spread viticulture throughout Europe. This central role in Greek culture and mythology was illustrated by Dionysus, the god of wine, symbolizing the importance of this drink in society.

Unique Terroir: Climate and Geography

Greece's unique terroir is a haven for grape growing. The mountainous landscapes, their islands, and Mediterranean climate all together coastal influences offer distinct microclimates that influence grape characteristics.

Mediterranean Climate

With its hot summers and mild winters, the apparent Mediterranean climate helps grape vines grow. In coastal areas, vineyards also benefit from cooling sea breezes, resulting in elevated acidity, which contributes to the wines' freshness.

Mountainous Terrain

About 80% of the land is mountainous, and Greek vineyards are often located at higher altitudes to provide cooler temperatures. This, again, helps maintain the acidity in the berries.

The Islands

The Greek islands, including Crete, Santorini, and Rhodes, have unique terroir that influences their wines' styles. Santorini, for instance, is famous for its volcanic soil that contributes to the salinity of its wines.

Key Wine Regions of Greece

Greece is home to several key wine regions, each with its own distinct style and grape varieties. To be exact it compasses 33 PDO s (Protected Designation of Origin) and 100 PGI s. Here's a closer look at some of the most prominent ones:

Macedonia

In the northern part of Greece, there is Macedonia, one of the country's important wine regions. Here you can get red wines with complexity and depth, especially from the Xinomavro grape.

Key Grape

Xinomavro is the main grape variety here which is often referred to as “the Nebbiolo of Greece” since it shows grippy tannins making the wine perfect for cellaring. High acidity, and flavors of dark fruit, tomato, and olives are also typical attributes.

Subregions

Of its 4 PDOs, Naoussa and Amyndeo are the most notable appellations within Macedonia. Here also look for Xinomavro wines.

2. Peloponnese

On the Peloponnese peninsula, you will find both indigenous and international grape varieties. The terroir is complex resulting in a huge array of wine styles.

Key Grapes

Agiorgitiko (red) and Moschofilero (white) are the ones to watch out for. They are the stars of the Peloponnese. With a medium body and rather soft tannins combined with flavors of cherry and plum, Agiorgitiko has many fans, as well as Moschofilero which offers floral, aromatic white wines.

Subregions

Nemea (known for Agiorgitiko) and Mantinia (known for Moschofilero) are two important appellations in this region.

3. Santorini

Santorini is the rising star of Greece with its volcanic soil. Assyrtiko is the grape variety the island is famous for.

Key Grape

Known for its high acidity, minerality, and citrus notes Assyrtiko generally produces both dry and sweet wines. Even Vinsanto, a sweet wine made from sun-dried grapes can be found.

Unique Growing Method

The “kouloura” training is common here in order to protect the vines from the apparent winds. Vines are shaped like a basket close to the floor which also helps protect from the heat.

4. Crete

Crete is Greece's biggest island and in summer it can get really hot and dry here.

Key grapes

Vidiano (white), Vilana (white), and Liatiko (red) are not names of ancient Greek gods. They are grape varieties found on this island. Vidiano wines are aromatic, with flavors of peach and apricot, while Liatiko offers soft tannins and notes of cherry and spice.

Subregions

Peza, Archanes, and Dafnes are the appellations you should look out for, each known for distinct styles and grape varieties.

5. Central Greece

People know Central Greece for Retsina, a traditional Greek wine flavored with pine resin. To this part also Attica and Thessaly do belong where you also find both international and indigenous varieties. Kthis area offers a taste of Greece's wine heritage.

Key Grape

Savatiano, is a white grape commonly used in Retsina. This grape is highly resistant to heat and drought, making it well-suited to Central Greece's warm climate.

Retsina

A unique wine with a flavor profile influenced by pine resin. While traditionally produced, modern Retsinas are often milder in resin flavor.

Unique Indigenous Greek Grape Varieties

There are over 300 native grape varieties in Greece contributing to the array of wine styles. Below we have made a list of the few you should not miss:

Assyrtiko

Native to Santorini, this white grape is recognized globally for its high acidity and minerality, often with citrus and stone fruit flavors. If you like straight linear and sharp wines worth aging, this will be a true delight.

Xinomavro

As mentioned earlier, it is often called the “Nebbiolo of Greece.” This red grape has high acidity and tannins. These qualities add to its rich and complex flavors of dark fruit, tomato, and herbs. Macedonia is known for decent examples of this grape variety.

Agiorgitiko

Agiorgitiko is well-known in Nemea, located in the Peloponnese. This grape variety is very versatile. It makes both easy-drinking wines and more complex, age-worthy wines. These wines have flavors of cherry, plum, and spice.

Moschofilero

This aromatic white grape is known from Mantinia in the Peloponnese, Moschofilero produces wines with floral aromas and flavors of citrus and stone fruits. Its wines are generally on the lighter side and refreshing.

Food Pairings with Greek Wine

Greek wines are amazing to combine with food. Check out the following combos:

Assyrtiko: This is a must-try with seafood, salads, and Mediterranean dishes with lemon and herbs.

Xinomavro: Roasted meats, tomato-based dishes, and hard cheeses very similar to what you would pair with Nebbiolo wines.

Agiorgitiko: This does well with lamb, grilled meats, and dishes with rich sauces.

Moschofilero: Just ideal with light appetizers, seafood, and salads.

Greek wines offer a multitude of flavors and also stories if you go beyond the label. Starting at the volcanic soils of Santorini to the mountainous regions of Macedonia, Greece's wines can spice your wine experience up. So don't wait until your next trip to this beautiful country, rather bring the Greek spirit into your glass right now.

Lotte Gabrovits