Graikija

In Greece, a country known for its ancient history, winemaking culture dates back in centuries, making the country famous worldwide with its local grape varieties like Assyrtiko and Xinomavro as well as unique wines such as “Retsina” and “Vinsanto”. Greek wines are in high demand among German, British, Scandinavian, and other European consumers. Nowadays, Greece boasts about 1200 wineries across different regions. 

Main Greek grape varieties and wine regions   

Xinomavro, a bold red grape, growing in the northern appellation “Naoussa”, Macedonia region. This robust variety, often compared with Italian Nebbiolo, gives red wines with complex tannins, bright acidity and flavors of red fruits and earthy undertones.  

Rosé wines are also produced from Xinomavro grape in “Amyndeon” appellation in Macedonia region. These rosé wines usually have deep colour, ripe red fruits characteristic of strawberry and cherry, full body and moderate acidity. Kir-Yianni makes excellent examples of rosé. 

Assyrtiko is one of the key white grapes, growing mostly on Santorini Island. Santorini has volcanic soils similar to those in “Etna” DOC, Sicily. The white wines from this Island have supreme mineral-driven compound as well as “Chablis” AOC and show crafting crisp body.  

The second style of wine produced from Assyrtiko is “Vinsanto”. This is sweet wine made from shriveled grapes. “Vin Santo” has dark brown colour with high concentrated fig, caramel and nuts aromas and pronounced sweetness. 

Another region of Greece is “Thessaly” with versatile Agiorgitiko grape, producing both powerful reds and light rosé wines. 

Retsina - the most popular Greek wine   

The most popular and traditional wine from Greece is “Retsina”. It is made mostly from white grapes Roditis and Savatiano in the Macedonia region and Central Greece. The key feature of these wines is fermentation with pine resin. This is an ancient option that helped to avoid oxidation and keep freshness. Usually, the wines become high in aromatics with green fruits, moderate acidity, pine and smoky undertones. One of the best Retsina producers is “Kechris”, who makes this wine in rare rose style from Xinomarvo grape.  

Greek winemaking, much like its ancient philosophy, is an art that intertwines tradition with innovation. The country's winemakers craft wines that reflect both the historical significance of the land and a forward-looking commitment to quality.