Wine Plus magazine No. 57 – Summer 2019 - Greek Wine Exploration Trip

Summer 2019

Greek Wine Exploration Trip Thrace Macedonia Epirus Thessaly

Central Greece Peloponnese Aegean Sea Islands Crete Ionian Sea Islands

wp57

THE WINE PLUS MAGAZINE

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THE WINE PLUS MAGAZINE

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A Journey through the wines of Greece A travelogue to pleasure Thrace, Macedonia, Epirus, Thessaly, Central Greece, Peloponnese, Aegean Islands, Crete, Ionian islands Our journey takes us to the Greek vineyards.

Are you ready?

Fully equipped with the guide you are holding and with an unlimited zest for wine revelations, we will visit not only famous but also less known vineyards.

We will steer ourselves through the vineyards.

We will visit wineries. Lots of wineries!

We will discuss with vine growers and winemakers, the passionate people behind labels that have been adored.

We will taste wines which make us dream.

We will collect first-hand information about anything that is new, the present and future of the main viticultural zones.

We will enjoy food in restaurants and taverns, perched on the intriguing mountainous countryside or beautifully located next to the sea.

True happiness is closer than you think! All you have to ask yourself is: which is the next wine to taste?

Enjoy!

Maria Netsika

Contents

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10

GREEK WINES IN NUMBERS

30

06

GREEK GRAPES YOU NEED TO KNOW FROM A TO …X

10

MACEDONIA

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MACEDONIA / THE WINES

30

30

MACEDONIA / OENOTOYRISM STOPS

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60

THRACE - EPIRUS

40

THRACE - EPIRUS / THE WINES - OENOTOYRISM STOPS

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THESSALY – CENTRAL GREECE

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THESSALY – CENTRAL GREECE / THE WINES

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48

70

THESSALY – CENTRAL GREECE / OENOTOYRISM STOPS

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PELOPONNESE

56

PELOPONNESE / WINES

60

PELOPONNESE / OENOTOYRISM STOPS

64

GREEK ISLANDS

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GREEK ISLANDS / THE WINES

70 GREEK ISLANDS / OENOTOYRISM STOPS

WINE PLUS magazine No 57 SUMMER 2019 Free press

Publisher WINE PLUS M. NETSIKA & CO 5, Kariotaki St. 546 45 Thessaloniki T: + 30 2310 888311 e-mail: info@wineplus.gr www.wineplus.gr

Editor Maria Netsika Contributing Editors Kostis Zafirakis Niki Mitarea Liza Vintzileou

Translation Yiannis Parassiris

Illustrations Infographics Red Fish

Photos Heinz Troll Thomas Yantzopoulos Wine Plus Photo Archive

Design Red Fish Print Beyond S.A.

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Greek wines in numbers

Everything you need to know about Greek winemaking

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Annual Wine Production (2017/2018)

Wine categories

120 P.G.I. 3% of EU’s designations

2.5 m. hl

P.D.O. + P.G.I.: 29%

33 P.D.O.

17th largest wine producing country in the world

(of Greek wine production)

25% of EU’s designations

Hectarage under vine (2017/2018)

61.500 ha (% total)

* P.D.O. (Protected Designation of Origin) | P.G.I. (Protected Geographical Indication)

Greek P.D.O. Map Macedonia + Thrace 14,8

P.D.O. ZITSA

Epirus + Thessaly8,32

P.D.O. P.D.O. P.D.O. P.D.O.

Goumenissa

Αmyndeon

Naoussa

AMYNDEON GOUMENISSA NAOUSSA SLOPES OF MELITON

Attica + Central Greece 20,16 Mount Meliton

Peloponnese 29,3

P.D.O. LEMNOS P.D.O. MUSCAT OF LEMNOS

Lemnos

Rapsani Zitsa

Aegean Islands 10,67

Anchialos

P.D.O. ROBOLA P.D.O. MAVRODAPHNE OF CEPHALONIA P.D.O. MUSCAT OF CEPHALONIA

Crete 11,9

P.D.O. RAPSANI P.D.O. MESSENICOLA P.D.O. ANCHIALOS

Messenicola

Ionian Islands 4,85 Cephalonia

P.D.O. SAMOS Athens

Patras

1295

9.000

wineries

wine labels

More than

300

Greek grape varieties

Approx style of wines

1/3

2/3

Mantinia

P.D.O. P.D.O. P.D.O. P.D.O.

PATRAS MAVRODAPHNE OF PATRAS MUSCAT OF PATRAS MUSCAT OF RIO PATRAS

P.D.O. SANTORINI

Paros

P.D.O. MUSCAT OF RHODES P.D.O. RHODES

Monemvassia

P.D.O. ΝΕΜΕΑ P.D.O. MANTINIA P.D.O. MONEMVASSIA – MALVASIA

Santorini Rhodes

Peza

P.D.O. PEZA P.D.O. DAPHNES P.D.O. ARCHANES

Daphnes

Archanes

P.D.O. CANDIA P.D.O. HANDAKAS CANDIA

reds

white

P.D.O. MALVASIA PAROS P.D.O. PAROS

Samos

Nemea

White

Rosé

Red

Sweet

Sourrces: O.I.V. | Hellenic Ministry of Agricultural Development and Food | Statistics

Sitia

P.D.O. SITIA P.D.O. MALVASIA SITIA

www.wineplus.gr

WINE

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Greek Grapes you need to know

Greek Grapes you need to know from A to...X FIND OUT MORE Grape varieties www.wineplus.gr

White and Pink skinned

Aidani (a-ee-THA-nee): Α white grape with floral aromas grown mainly on the Cyclades islands. It is rarely bottled as a single varietal wine, as it is usually found in the P.D.O. Santorini blend, dry and sweet (Vinsanto).

Assyrtiko (a-SEAR-tee-ko): A startling Greek white grape, Assyrtiko is the dominant grape of Santorini that has successfully migrated to Halkidiki, Epanomi, Drama, Mount Pangeon, in Macedonia and the Peloponnese. It maintains a high acidity even in fully ripeness. With crispy acidity and excellent minerality, its wines are rich and refreshing.

The aromas suggest citrus, lemon blossom, orange zest and grapefruit.

Athiri (a-THEE-ree): This is another white grape, common to the islands of the southern Aegean and Halkidiki, in eastern Macedonia. Its wines have lovely floral aromas and a good mouth-watering attack that wakes up the palate.

Dafni (tha-FNEE): Α white grape, one of the ancient indigenous varieties of Crete, it stands out for its aroma of daphne (laurel), hence its name.

Debina (de-BEE-na): A white variety from Epirus whose wines place emphasis on the fruit. They are noted for their refreshing acidity and for the aroma’s finesse, which is reminiscent of green apple and pear.

Debina offers a high potential for the production of effervescent wines.

Katsano (ka-tsa-NO): At the end of the 19th century, more than 50 grape varieties were cultivated in Santorini. Nowadays, it is hardly 5 of them which are considered significant. Among those is the Katsano.

Kidonitsa (kee-tho-NEE-tsa): One of the rarest varieties of Laconia, Peloponnese along with Monemvasia (mo-ne-mva-see-A), Petrouliano (pe-troo-lee-a-NO) and Thrapsa (th-r-A-psa). Its trademark is the persistent aroma of sweet quince.

Lagorthi (la-GKO-r-thee): A grape with remarkable fruit and vivid acidity, grown in Northern Peloponnese and the Ionian islands.

Malagousia (ma-la-ghoo-zee-A): This fine white Greek variety was saved from oblivion thanks to the acumen of several Greek producers who believed in its potential. Critical praise and consumer excitement have proven them right. Malagousia wines have strong fragrance, complexity and verve... haven't I forgotten anything? Long, slightly peppery finish. Another Greek wine to try when you want to branch out and experiment.

Monemvasia (mo-ne-mva-ssee-A): A white grape with elegant aromas and flavours, grown in Paros and Laconia.

Moschofilero (mos-ko-FEE-lai-ro): This variety is known as a blanc de gris, meaning that its skin colour can range from light pink to deep purple. It is cultivated on the plateau of Mantinia and in the southern Peloponnese. Moschofilero produces wines with notes of rose, mint, and lemon.

Muscat: A large and famous family of grapes that is cultivated under various names in almost every single wine-producing country. Equally expansive is the variety of its wines that range from aged sweets to fresh, fruity effervescents, all of which are notable for their fine and impressive aromas. In Samos the White Muscat gives pretty fruity, sunny and charming sweat wines. Appealing, brilliant deep straw in colour.

Fragrant with honey, apple and pear. Superb full-bodied, dense and concentrated. You haven't lived if you haven't tried a Samos Muscat wine. It’s the ultimate after-dinner as-the-sun-is-setting-sitting-by-thesea wine.

Robola (ro-BO-la): This white grape, cultivated on the Ionian island of Cephalonia, is one of the most elegant Greek varieties. Its wines are fresh, with sunny notes of lemon.

Roditis (ro-THEE-tees): Wines from this pink skinned variety are made throughout almost all of Greece, but with best results near Patras in the western Peloponnese, in parts of Macedonia, and in Thessaly. When its yields are controlled and it is carefully vinified, Roditis gives us light and inviting wines that exude the freshness of citrus, apple and pear.

Savatiano (sa-va-tee-a-NO): The most ubiquitous grape, Savatiano is found in Attica and throughout the whole of central Greece. Along with Roditis, it is the main grape used for the production of Retsina.

Sideritis (see-the-REE-tees): A grape with rosy skin and an appetizing acidity. Grown all over the Peloponnese, especially in Corinthia, Achaia, Ilia and sporadically in Attica and Evia.

Vidiano (vee-thee-a-NO): Another one of the ancient white varieties of Crete, destined to be the new star of the island’s wine production.

When it is grown on cool vineyards of high altitude, it presents an intense, fruity aroma and agreeable freshness that brings balance to the full mouth.

Vilana (vee-LA-na): An old Cretan variety, Vilana is a sensitive white grape which, when cultivated with care to produce modest yields, offers pleasant wines with flowery and fruity aromas.

Three grape varieties. Three high elevation parcels. Agiorghitiko in acacia barrel, Syrah in stainless steel, Mavrofilero macerated in amphora.

Layered. Textured. Elegant.

skouras.gr

WINE

Greek Grapes you need to know

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Red skinned

Agiorgitiko (a-gee-or-GHEE-tee-ko): The king of red grapes in the Peloponnese, gorgeous Agiorgitiko is cultivated in Nemea. Its wines, dark, deep, rich and ripe are crowd pleasers. Deep red in colour with loads of cassis and blackberry flavour. Rich, mature, velvety taste and luscious texture. The supple young version is fruit-forward and will reward early enjoyment. However, there is enough big structure to support long-term cellaring (5-10 years).

Avgoustiatis (av-goo-s-tee-A-tees): A red, extremely rare grape, grown in Western Peloponnese and the Ionian islands. Its wines, usually blended with Greek or international varieties have a vibrant, dark colour and respond greatly to aging in barrels.

Kotsifali (ko-tsee-FA-lee): A red Cretan grape, Kotsifali produces wines that are wonderfully juicy with bright red plums and a good grip on the palate. It is usually blended with another island red grape, Mantilaria.

Krassato (kra-SSA-to): A red grape which is part of the P.D.O. wine of Rapsani and is found exclusively there.

Liatiko (Lee-A-tee-ko): An exclusively Cretan grape, Liatiko is considered one of the oldest Greek varieties. It matures in July, hence its name, which is a transliteration of “Juliatiko.” Liatiko is a variety with high alcohol potential that best demonstrates its qualities when sufficiently ripe.

Mavrotragano (ma-vro-TRA-ga-no): A red suggestion from Santorini.

This is just one of the many unknown grapes of the Cyclades islands.

It was managed to be rescued – to the enjoyment of wine lovers – through the winemakers’ efforts. A wine with character and intensity, traits of any other product that comes from this beloved island.

Mavroudi (ma-VROO-thee): By the name Mavroudi we find grapes in Rodopi, Thrace and South Peloponnese. Their common trait is the deep red/black colour of their skin.

Mouchtaro (mOO-hta-ro): This rare grape found in Viotia, Central Greece was revived thanks to the efforts of the area’s winemakers. The high acidity and the aromas of red fruits and herbs are the main features of its wines.

Mpekiari (be-kee-A-ree): A red grape grown in Ioannina, Epirus. It is usually blended with Vlahiko, offering colour and tannins.

Negoska (ne-GO-ska): This red grape is exclusively grown in Goumenissa, Central Macedonia next to Xinomavro (ksee-NO-ma-vro).

It is blended in the P.D.O. wine of the area, offering colour, fruit, alcoholic title and reducing its acidity.

Pamidi (pa-MEE-thee): A grape with a rosy skin, grown mainly in Thrace and used for the production of rosé wines or part of red blends.

Limnio (lee-mnee-O): Limnio is an ancient red grape varietal native to the island of Lemnos. It was mentioned by Aristotle and other ancient writers. Today it is cultivated not only in Lemnos, but also in Halkidiki, and Northern Greece, where it produces lovely, silky red with the exotic perfume of wet violets and cherries.

Stavroto (sta-vro-TO): It is a red grape grown exclusively in Rapsani, Thrace and it is blended in the area’s P.D.O. wine.

Limniona (lee-mnee-O-na): One of the rarest varieties of Thessaly. Its trademark is its herbal/fruity character.

Vlahiko (vlA-hee-ko): A red grape grown in Ioannina, Epirus. It thrives in cold climates giving wines with a bright red colour, aromatic complexity, high acidity and a medium body that evolves nicely in time.

Mantilaria (man-dee-la-ree-A): This red Aegean variety flourishes on the islands of Paros, Rhodes and Crete. It has an unruly character and is usually blended with other Greek varietals that soften its rougher qualities and add fine notes to its clearly earthy tones. Mantilaria is blended with Monemvasia in Paros, and Kotsifali in Crete.

Mavrodaphne (ma-vro-THA-fnee): This familiar aromatic grape is usually cultivated in the vineyards of Patras and Cephalonia. Most of its yield is used to produce the strong, sweet, high-grade, aged red wine that bears the same name.

Mavro Kalavritino (mA-vro ka-la-vree-tee-NO): An Achaia red variety giving wines of medium colour and plenty of tannins, good body and fresh aromas of black and red fruit, as well as of spices.

Mavro Mesenikola (mA-vro me-sse-nee-KO-la): It is grown in the area of Lake Plastira, in Thessaly. The wines present medium colour, as well as medium body and modest tannins.

Vertzami (ver-tza-MEE): A grape with a remarkable colour and fruit, grown in Northern Peloponnese and the Ionian islands.

Voudomato (voo-THO-ma-to): A rare red variety of Santorini. The wines have a bright colour, medium acidity and high alcohol consistency.

Vradiano (vra-thee-a-NO): This rare red grape is found in Mainland Greece and Evia. The wines it produces have a bright colour, medium body and aromatic complexity.

Xinomavro (xee-NO-ma-vro): A red grape, it is the prime variety of Northern Greece and is cultivated widely from the slopes of the central Greek mountains to the ranges of Pindos. It is the grape of P.D.O. Naoussa, Goumenissa, Amyndeon, and Rapsani. Xinomavro has a distinctive, dark-red colour and an acidic taste even when ripe. Its name means “sour black.” When young, Xinomavro wines are unyielding, but they soften with time and age beautifully, acquiring a unique complexity and palate that yields successive waves of cherry-tomato, plums, violets, lilies… -whatever you are looking for, you will probably find it in here eventually. The wines can be a touch tannic but will smooth out with an hour or two of decanting.

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M AC E D O N I A / K AVA L A

WINE

Kavala

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Vineyards in the shade of the “golden” Pangeon Mountain

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Kavala, Pangeon, Thassos

Grape varieties White: SB, Assyrtiko, Chardonnay, Sémillon, Traminer, Viognier, Malagousia, Vidiano Pink: Roditis Red: CS, Merlot, Syrah, Agiorgitiko, Limnio

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Must try: Kavala is one of the biggest fishing centres in Greece, where the fresh fish and seafood reign.

The cuisine is a combination of local Macedonian recipes with influences from the cuisine of the refugees from Pontos, Asia Minor and Cappadocia.

Famous dishes: salted fish, sun-dried mackerel, baked sardines, rice with mussels, smoked herring, anchovies in vine leaves, stuffed eggplants Must buy: P.D.O “Throuba” olives Salted fish, Kourabiedes from Nea Karvali (Greek almond snow balls), walnut spoon sweet (preserve) from Thassos Restaurants: The perfect food stop Psaraki | creative fish cuisine @Kavala Nagpigio @Kavala Tsalapateinos urban farm | gastro brasserie @Kavala Orino | casseroles and game @Korifes Kavala Kladi Elias | Mediterranean cuisine and Boutique hotel @Messoropi Kavala Kastanies | local cuisine @Nikissiani Kavala

858

14

Vineyards surface

Wineries

ha

45.700 Annual Wine Production

ΗL

Facts The vineyard area in Kavala is quite large, close to 3.350 ha. Table wine and dual usage varieties are cultivated in 2.690 of them. These delicious and healthy grapes, mostly Rozaki, produce wines which are enjoyed not only domestically but also abroad.

Since the mid 90’s, the surface of wine producing vineyards has increased significantly, especially in the foothills of Pangeon Mountain, where the Mediterranean climate is also influenced by the mountains.

This is where the non-Nemea Agiorgitiko was firstly planted.

Over the past years, efforts are made to revive the old local varieties of the prefecture, mostly Rozaki and Kerino from Kavala.

Kavala is known for: • white aromatic wines, with an especially fruity character and good acidity, freshness and structure • red wines with rich structure and complexity, of medium to long aging capability.

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M AC E D O N I A / D R A M A

WINE

Drama

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A cosmopolitan approach to wine Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Drama, Adriani, Agora

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it

Grape varieties White: SB, Assyrtiko, Chardonnay, Sémillon, Malagousia, Trebbiano, Viognier Red: Syrah, Agiorgitiko, CS, Cabernet Franc (CF), Merlot, Nebbiolo, Touriga Nacional

Must try: The multifaceted cuisine of the area, with intense influences from Thrace and Asia Minor, as it used to be populated by refugees.

Famous dishes: itsli kiofte (balls of bulgur stuffed with lamb ground meat), hounkiar mpeyendi (a beef casserole served with eggplant purée), gioulbasi (pork meat baked in baking paper with vegetables and potatoes), trout Must buy: P.D.O. Kato Nevrokopi potatoes, Giant Elephant Beans (Gigantes), beans Cured meats: kavourmas (roasted meat with spices, pastourmas (highly seasoned air-dried cured beef ), sausages, pastrami (meat that has been brined, dried and seasoned) Halva from Kirgia (a sesamepaste dense confectionery), dogwood paste (from the fruit of the dogwood tree).

Restaurants: The perfect food stop s’eu | contemporary Greek cuisine @Hydrama Grand Hotel, Drama Fileto meat restaurant @Drama Must attend Babougera | an ancient customary celebration of the Greek god of wine, Dionysus, taking place in Kali Vrisi, Drama in the beginning of January Dramoinognosia (wine tastings in Drama) | events to promote the Prefecture of Drama as an attractive tourist destination for wine and flavours - May

520 Vineyards surface

ha

8 Wineries

27.225 Annual Wine Production

ΗL

Facts A sanctuary of worship of the Greek god of wine Dionysus was discovered in Kali Vrisi, Drama, chronologically belonging to the end of the 4th with the beginning of the 3rd century BC. One can find the vineyards of this viticultural zone along the valley and the low hills in the eastern part of the city of Drama gathered mainly in the areas of Adriani, Agora, Mikrochori, Kokkinogia and the foothills of Menikio Mountain, in clay soils.

The viticultural activity is expressed in three dimensions: privately owned vineyards with beautiful wineries which can be visited, exceptional wines with great personalities, and a small army of top notch producers dedicated to good quality.

Drama is known for its “modern” wines, with a clean nose, balanced mouth and, in general, all those characteristics that denote the sense of quality.

Drama is the winemaking area where contemporary marketing approaches were applied to help create big brand names for its wines.

The Drama Winemakers Union is actively working to define the “identity” of the zone’s wines, aiming to establish the indication of P.D.O. Drama.

ᰠ䄀 最漀愀氀 眀椀琀栀漀甀琀 愀 瀀氀愀渀 椀猀 樀甀猀琀 愀 眀椀猀栀ᴠ 䄀渀琀漀椀渀攀 搀攀 匀愀椀渀琀ⴀ䔀砀甀瀀爀礀

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M AC E D O N I A / H A L K I D I K I

WINE

Halkidiki

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A gifted vineyard

Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.) Slopes of Meliton (1982) white/red - dry

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Halkidiki, Sithonia, Mount Athos (Agio Oros)

Grape varieties White: Athiri, Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Muscat of Alexandria, SB, Chardonnay, Viognier, Trebbiano Pink: Roditis Red: Limnio, CS, CF, Xinomavro, Grenache Rouge, Syrah, Merlot

1.033 Taste it > love it > shop it > share it

Vineyards surface

ha

11 Wineries

54.470 Annual Wine Production

ΗL

Must try: Hortopita (pie with greens), tiganopsomo (fried bread with feta cheese), chicken with green olives, mussels from Olympiada, giaprakia (cabbage rolls), stuffed zucchini flowers, wild boar with plums Must buy: P.D.O. Halkidiki Agourelaio (Early Harvest Olive Oil), Green Olives, dried figs of Taxiarchis P.G.I Olive Oil of Galano Metaggitsiou “Aggouraki” from the local olive varieties, honey, Mountovina tsipouro (a distillate made from honey), mushrooms, chestnuts, potatoes from Holomontas mountain, mparmpounofasoula (beans) from Neochori

Facts In ancient Halkidiki, the cities which were famous for their wines were Mendi (a city in the southwestern of the Kassandra peninsula), Akanthos (known today as Ierissos) and Afitis (known today as Afitos).

Stagira, the birthplace of Aristotle, was the city where he planted the first model vineyard.

Nowadays, vineyards are cultivated in central and mountainous Halkidiki, in Sithonia and Mount Athos.

With the guidance of the great French oenologist Emile Peynaud, the largest experimental vineyard of Greek and foreign varieties ever known to Greece was planted in the sun-drenched western slopes of the Mount Meliton.

There is a year-long tradition in the art of viticulture and wine production in almost all the Mount Athos monasteries. Nowadays, in quite a few of them, we are experiencing their revival.

Most of the present-day vineyards of the Mount Athos monasteries are linear; they have been adapted to the necessary use of machinery, but remained non-irrigated just like the old ones. Almost all of them are organically farmed.

FIND OUT MORE Our top picks of restaurants in Halkidiki www.wineplus.gr

P.D.O. Slopes of Meliton: this is the first Protected Designation of Origin that included international grapes in its varietal composition. Also, it is one of the few Greek P.D.O. zones able to produce both red and white wines.

P.G.I. Mount Athos, one of the first Geographical Indications legislated in Greece in 1981.

Top vintages: 2017, 2013, 2011, 2009, 2005, 2004, 2001

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Eagles Palace owns a private, blue-flag awarded beach with crystal-clear waters and golden sand, which makes it ideal for families with young children. It offers comfortable sunbeds and a beach bar serving refreshing cocktails and snacks on the beach at the push of a button!

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Ouranoupolis, Halkidiki T: +30 23774 40050 e-mail: info@eaglespalace.gr www eaglespalace.gr

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M AC E D O N I A / T H E S S A L O N I K I

WINE

Thessaloniki Wine in multiple facets

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Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Thessaloniki, Epanomi, Nea Messimvria, Slopes of Vertiskos

Grape varieties White: Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Chardonnay, SB, Viognier, Athiri, Savatiano Pink: Roditis Red: Xinomavro, Limnio, CS, Merlot, Syrah, Grenache Rouge

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Thessaloniki is known for its gastronomy and its many different variations.

The cuisine features many cultural elements from the Greek refugees. It incorporates the culinary tradition with refugees’ resourcefulness, the Eastern exotic elements with Western conformity Must try + buy: P.D.O. Kasseri of Sohos (cheese) Sesame seed bagels (the famous “koulouri” of Thessaloniki), bougatsa with crème (sweet custard pie with phyllo), trigona of Panorama (cream-filled phyllo cones), yoghurt from Dorkada

900 Vineyards surface

ha

20 Wineries

29.000 Annual Wine Production

ΗL

Facts Vines have always been cultivated in the Prefecture of Thessaloniki, from the plains to the coastlines of Thermaikos Bay, all the way up to the mountains. Although the vineyards were destroyed by phylloxera in the early 20th century, the refugees who arrived in the area after the Asia Minor Catastrophe managed to revive them.

FIND OUT MORE Our top picks of restaurants and wine bars in Thessaloniki www.wineplus.gr

Must attend: Map of Flavours | Northern Greece biggest wine event @Thessaloniki Thessaloniki Food Festival | events that highlight the city as an attractive tourist destination for wine & flavours Carnival @Sohos Cherry festival @Ossa - June

In the mid 80’s, when the “small producers” started becoming more known, the Prefecture of Thessaloniki dynamically entered the quality Greek wine sector, filling our glasses with high quality wines, many of which have become trendsetters.

The coastline vineyards, in the areas of Epanomi and Nea Michaniona, were planted in sandy soils which are well drained. Their wines feature intense fruit and a rich taste. “New generation” wines, softer, modern.

On the slopes of the mountain Vertiskos, vines were planted close to some of the most beautiful villages of the Prefecture, in the traditional settlement of Ossa, in Sohos and Askos. In this accommodating ecosystem, elegant white wines are produced as well as aromatic rosés and harmonious reds, reflecting the characteristics of the grape varieties they are made from.

Most of the residents of Nea Messimvria, in the western areas, come from Eastern Rumelia. When their ancestors migrated to their new homeland they brought along with them their experience in viticulture.

Nowadays, the linear vineyards, with the tall and strong vines, lined up along the road, produce white and red wines of exceptional finesse, from Greek and international varieties.

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www.gerovassiliou.gr

M AC E D O N I A / N AO U S S A

WINE

Naoussa

Complex, vigorous and absolutely fascinating wines from Xinomavro

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Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.) Naoussa (1972) red/dry/semi-dry/semi-sweet

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Imathia

Grape varieties White: Prekniariko (Preknadi) Pink: Roditis Red: Xinomavro, Merlot, Syrah

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it

400

19

Vineyards surface

Wineries

ha

20.400 Annual Wine Production

ΗL

NAOUSSA Must try: Red meats with spicy sauces, game, pies, goat sausages (with oregano, pepper and allspice) Must buy: P.D.O. Batzos (salty, hard cheese), peaches of Naoussa, crunchy cherries of Rodohori Apples, grape molasses, revani from Veria (sweet semolina cake) Restaurants: The perfect food & wine stop Oinomagiremata | local cuisine @Naoussa Rakokazano | traditional tavern @Nea Strantza Harama | hearty gastronomy @Arkochori 12 Grada | wine-bar @Veria Must attend: Naoussa City of Wine | various wine tasting events – December Traditional Carnaval | Re-enactment of the ancient custom “Gianitsaroi and Boules” where the locals dress up in scary masks and gowns....

Facts The viticultural zone of Naoussa is the most famous wine region in Northern Greece.

Naoussa is known for red wines with a fascinating complexity and stamina in time.

The P.D.O. Naoussa wine is produced exclusively from Xinomavro.

5 Xinomavro clones with distinct features have been isolated. Special references are made to the following clones: V6 Naoussa and V3 Velvendos. These clones produce wines with lower acidity levels (higher pH) and higher concentration of phenolic compounds.

The results of a study aiming to redefine the zone substantiate the presence of 13 sub-zones with uniformity in the soil and climate characteristics. These sub-zones produce wines from Xinomavro with distinctly different personalities.

Vineyards in Gastra, Strantza, Ramnista can give Naoussa wines of excellent quality, rich in aromas and great aging potential.

Vineyards in Marina give typical Naoussa wines with a smaller stamina in time.

Vineyards in Trilofos are ideal for the production of balanced fresh red wines with an intense fruit character.

Top vintages: 2017, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2007, 2005, 2001, 2000

M AC E D O N I A / A M Y N D E O N

WINE

Amyndeon

The Northernmost vineyards in Greece

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Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.) Amyndeon (1972), rosé/dry/semi-dry/semi-sweet, rosé sparkling/dry/semi-dry, red/dry/semi-dry

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Florina

Grape varieties White: SB, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Malagousia, Assyrtiko Pink: Roditis Red: Xinomavro, Syrah, Merlot

650 Vineyards surface

ha

8 Wineries

31.090 Annual Wine Production

ΗL

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it AMYNDEON Must try + buy: P.D.O. Giant Elephant beans of Prespes, Beans of Prespes, Giant Elephant beans of Kastoria Grivadi (Carp -a kind of freshwater fish), salted tsironi (a kind of freshwater fish), naturally sparkling water of Xino Nero, red Florina peppers and ajvar (ground red pepper), paprika from peppers of Aridea, pickled vegetables, pies, trahanas (frumenty), petoura or hilopites (a kind of noodles)

Facts

Restaurants: The perfect food and wine stop Kontosoros - delicious local cuisine @Xino Nero Thomas - family taverna with a long tradition @Sklithro Naoumidis – fresh fish @Agios Panteleimonas

Amyndeon rosé – still and sparkling – is the only Greek P.D.O. rosé.

Amyndeon is the northernmost and cooler viticultural zone in Greece.

The vineyards are located on the plateau of Amyndeon (villages of Amyndeon, Agios Panteleimonas, Kleidi, Xino Nero, Petres, Rodonas, Fanos) and in the areas Filotas, Aetos, Variko. Of those, almost 50% are found between the lakes of Petres and Vegoritida.

The poor, sandy – sand and clay soil allows for the efficient drainage of the rain water and for the production of wines with aroma intensity, finesse and good structure.

Most of the vineyards are linear (Royat training system), in rows. Since the sandy soil did not favour the spread of phylloxera, one can find vineyards with own rooted vines, aging more than 80 years in cup shape (Gobelet system).

Amyndeon and Xinomavro as a pair give us delightful red wines. Also, this combination is ideal for the production of rosé and sparkling wines.

Amyndeon is known for: • aromatic white wines with finesse • still and sparkling rosé wines with an expressive nose, typical of the variety • complex red wines.

Top vintages: 2013, 2012, 2011, 2005

M AC E D O N I A / G O U M E N I S S A

WINE

Goumenissa

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Among the most beautyful wine sites in Greece Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.) Goumenissa (1979) red dry

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Slopes of Paiko

Grape varieties White: Assyrtiko, Malagousia SB, Chardonnay Pink: Roditis Red: Xinomavro, Negoska, CS, Merlo, Syrah

400 Vineyards surface

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it GOUMENISSA Must try + buy: Delicious local meats, sausages, pies, honey, local cheeses: parharotiri (a smoked cheese from Pontos), sirna (goat’s cheese from Griva), siron (a dried dough from Pontos), chestnuts from Mount Paiko and pasta Restaurants: The perfect food stop Tzaki @Goumenissa Parifes @Griva Must attend The celebration of St. Trifonas (the patron saint of vineyards) – February 1st

ha

5 Wineries

4.980 Annual Wine Production

ΗL

Facts The vineyards of Goumenissa stretch on the south eastern slopes of Mount Paiko and on hills with a slight incline on the south of the city, at an altitude of no more than 250 meters.

Here, Xinomavro is grown along with Negoska, a local red grape.

P.D.O. Goumenissa: Xinomavro and Negoska blend (Negoska >20%) Goumenissa is known for red wines with finesse and lively colours. They incorporate the soft tannins of Negoska with the fruit and the long, pleasant aftertaste referencing right back to the Xinomavro.

The replanting which has taken place in the zone over the past few years offers great potential for differentiated wines with the participation of international varieties.

M AC E D O N I A / S I AT I S TA – V E LV E N D O S – P I E R I A

WINE

Siatista – Velvendos – Pieria Traditional and modern vineyards

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Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Siatista

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Velvendos

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Pieria

Grape varieties White: Batiki, Preknadi, Gewürztraminer Red: Xinomavro, Moschomavro, Hondromavro, CS, CF, Merlot, Cinsault

Grape varieties White: Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Chardonnay Pink: Roditis Red: Xinomavro, Moschomavro, Limniona, CS, CF, Merlot, Syrah

Grape varieties White: Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Savatiano, SB, Chardonnay, Trebbiano Pink: Roditis Red: Xinomavro, Limniona, Agiorgitiko, CS, Merlot, Syrah, Cinsault, Grenache Rouge

250 Vineyards surface

ha

2 Wineries

SIATISTA

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Must try + buy: P.D.O. Saffron of Kozani, manouri of Vlasti (soft cheese), Kiwi of Pieria Kichia (traditional cheese pies), sausages with bukovo (chili), black pepper, cumin, allspice and paprika Restaurants: The perfect food stop Gravadika | great casseroles @Siatista Gastrodromio en Olympo | outstanding creative Greek cuisine and amazing wine list @Litochoro, Olympus Dimatis | local cuisine @Agios Dimitrios, Pieria

100 Vineyards surface

ha

3 Wineries

224 10 Vineyards surface

VELVENDOS

ha

Wineries

PIERIA

Facts Viticulture has been present in Siatista since the 15th century.

The majority of the vineyards are at an altitude of 680-850 meters, with the oldest ones still growing on the traditional terraces.

Some of the grapes are placed in large crates with screens – they are called liastres- in order to dry in sheltered and well-ventilated space. From these grapes, the famous “iliasto” sweet wine of Siatista is produced.

The vineyards in Velvendos stretch in the northwest of the town, on a slope with exposure to the northwest and an altitude of 300-370 meters.

The climate is continental. However, it is affected in a significant manner by the neighbouring Polyfytos lake and more specifically by the steady presence of winds, who have a cooling effect on the vines during the summer months.

In Pieria, for approximately 10 years now, we have observed the intense and serious effort to systematically revive viticulture.

A large variety of Greek and international varieties has been planted in the foothills of the Pieria Mountains. These vineyards also enjoy the sea breeze and have produced wines which are great ambassadors of the potential that this zone has.

WP PRESENTS THE EXCELSIOR THESSALONIKI

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The Excelsior Thessaloniki 10 years of signature hospitality

The historic Excelsior Thessaloniki celebrates the 10 year anniversary of its renovation in 2019 and has organised a series of anniversary happenings and events as part of the “ExcelsiorGR10” campaign.

Excelsior is a member of the TOR Hotel Group and the hospitality chain Small Luxury Hotels of the World. www.excelsiorhotel.gr

Having become an integral part of the hospitality experience in Thessaloniki, the Excelsior is now a landmark of the city. Built in 1924 in accordance with the plans of architects Pleyber - Fernandez, the neo-classical building is a true architectural jewel, just a breath away from Aristotelous Square. In 2009 the TOR Hotel Group breathed a new lease of life into the hotel by carrying out a radical renovation, while staying true to its historic character and retaining its traditional façade. Since then, The Excelsior has become a unique 5-star residence offering unforgettable moments to its guests.

The iconic Thessaloniki hotel can be distinguished by its understated luxury and high-end services, while its privileged location in the heart of the commercial and business centre makes it the ideal destination for every kind of visitor. At the same time, the superior aesthetics and elegant interiors, the exceptional gastronomic options and the personalised service make up a unique identity which immediately wins over its guests.

2019 marks the 10 year anniversary since the hotel’s rebirth and promises to be a year full of surprises, beautiful memories and celebratory events as part of the “ExcelsiorGR10” campaign.

Inspired by the people who have been a part of the “Excelsior” experience, the campaign will reveal the most beautiful feelings and memories of important guests such as celebrities from the cultural scene, members of the city’s political and business community, as well as artists and actors from all over the world. Meanwhile, visitors will be able to admire a bespoke photography exhibition, in which artists from Thessaloniki will capture the magnificent character of The Excelsior through their lens.

In addition, a surprise collaboration with one of the largest wine producers in Northern Greece will offer visitors the opportunity to try and to purchase the anniversary Excelsior wine, which will also be served in the Charlie D. Brasserie, which bears the signature of two Michelin star French chef Arnaud Bignon.

Throughout the year, visitors to Thessaloniki will also be able to benefit from special anniversary offers during their stay, while a festive pin will prove to be a lovely souvenir to take home with them until they return once again to The Excelsior.

WINE

M AC E D O N I A / K AVA L A - D R A M A | T H E W I N E S

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Kavala - Drama The wines

Idisma Drios Assyrtiko 2017 Wine Art Estate

Apla Rosé 2018 Oenops wines

Oak-fermented Assyrtiko. A gorgeous wine that bursts from the glass with beautiful intensity. The bouquet is laced with toasty notes of golden apple, peach and sun-ripened apricot. It performs impressively in the mouth thanks to the amazing textural richness and soft creaminess it shows. (P.D.I. Drama)

In this very attractive rosé look for summery, refreshing fruity aromas and lovely acidity. Groovy and pomegranate pink-coloured, it’s simply delicious!

The symphony grapes are Xinomavro, Limniona and CS (60%-20%-20%).

Malagousia 2018 Symeonidis Estate This very attractive Malagousia comes from estate’s vineyard in Ano Elaiochori, Kavala. Look for aromas of peaches on the nose with flavours of lemon drops and tropical fruit combined with a long flinty finish. (P.G.I. Pangeon)

Rozaki 2018 Tsikrikonis Winery Vibrant pale yellow colour leads to beautiful nose of citrus and peaches and hints of green pepper spice in the aftertaste. Tsikrikonis Winery in Mirtofito Kavala offers the first attempt to make Rozaki wine outside Crete.

Emphasis Chardonnay 2017 Ktima Pavlidis A Greek Chardonnay determined to expand beyond variety’s full potential!

Barrique fermentation + 6 months fine lees contact. Result: ultra-ripe fruit character + hints of oak, great intensity, pure enjoyment! (P.D.I. Drama)

Merlot 2018 Domaine Costa Lazaridi Overall the Domaine Costa Lazaridi wines are fresh and fruit-forward. What makes this rosé unique is that it is created solely from Merlot grapes sourced from a single vineyard in Drama. Slightly ‘grapefruity’ in both colour and flavour, it has an elegance that makes it perfect for a hot Greek summer. (P.G.I. Drama)

Feggites rosé 2017 Oinogenesis Bright pink in colour, with really nicely judged red cherry and raspberry fruits, as well as some lemony acidity. Dry, well balanced, and highly food friendly, this charming rosé from Drama is reminiscent of the wines of the French coast. (P.G.I. Drama)

Genima Psihis Rosé 2018 Estate Manolesakis Very attractive 100% CS rosé wine characterized by lively strawberry colour as if crushed from strawberry juice, and refreshing fruity notes that match those colours. Dry and savoury in style, it would be perfect with food. (P.G.I. Drama)

Ovilos 2013 Ktima Bivlia Chora Multi award-winning Ovilos 2013 has off-the-charts massiveness and intensity but never comes across as heavy or astringent. The flavour freshness, laser-like precision, and full-bodied, massive richness are simply remarkable to behold and experience! This 100% CS has spent 16 months in new oak barriques, plus 24 months in bottles and definitely holds the standard for the cosmopolitan variety. (P.G.I. Pangeon)

Magic Mountain red 2013 Nico Lazaridi Featuring Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc (50%-50%) the famous wine shows off the virtues of both grapes. Opulent aromas of cherry, plums, spice and oak, in which it was aged for 18 months. Luscious texture and complexity. The bottle labels feature original artwork by celebrated painters.

(P.G.I. Drama)

Signal 2015 Lalikos Mountainous Vineyards Blended from Syrah and Viognier (90-10%) this Côtes-du-Rhône style, deep red beauty offers three-dimensional nose and flavour complexity. Coming from Palaia Kavala high-altitude vineyard (750m), this is an intriguing and intense, aromatically complex, robust red wine. (P.G.I. Pangeon)

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WINE

M AC E D O N I A / H A L K I D I K I - T H E S S A L O N I K I | T H E W I N E S

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Halkidiki - Thessaloniki The wines Malagousia 2018 Ktima Gerovassiliou

Moschopolis 8, Xinomavro - Syrah 2018 Moschopolis Winery

It's rare for Malagousia to be as clean and refreshing as this wine is, while still feeling rich. The flavours explode with scents of lime and bright notes of tangerine, fattening up in the middle before lasting on a long, tangy line of citrus. (P.G.I. Epanomi)

This Xinomavro and Syrah rosé blend (60% - 40%) comes from Monopigado vineyard in Thessaloniki region and spends 8 months in oak barrel. Very attractive wine characterized by lovely litchi pink hue and a very complex taste, which is a balance of fruity and spicy. Dry and savoury in style, it would be perfect with food.

Assyrtiko 2016 Akrathos Newlands Winery It's easy to fall for this charming complex Assyrtiko, which winemaker sources from vineyards on the eastern slopes of Mount Holomon, Halkidiki planted from 550 to 700m in elevation. With a lively mineral character and high acidity is an age-worthy, opulent and sophisticated white. (P.G.I. Halkidiki)

Damaskios white 2018 Damaskios Winery Made from Assyrtiko and Muscat of Alexandria (50% - 50%) grapes and vineyards on Nea Messimvria region of Thessaloniki, this very attractive wine is extremely fine with an undertow of exotic fruits and citrus flavours. A good mouth-watering attack wakes up the palate and gets it ready for spicy foods.

Sauvignon Blanc Fumé 2017 Domaine Florian Single vineyard Sauvignon Blanc matured in French oak, the wine's ripe fruit ably supports the toasty oak tones. This has an almost exotic apricot, almondnutty, biscotti aroma. The vineyard site is in Epanomi region of Thessaloniki, 500m from the coastline. (P.G.I. Macedonia)

Rosé Xinomavro 2018 Arvanitidis Estate Xinomavro Rosé is an addictive tasting experience because of its gourmet acidity. And this is a sophisticated, delicious, salmon pink-coloured, herband-red-fruit, well balanced, and highly food friendly Xinomavro-based rosé, grown in Askos semi-mountainous region of Thessaloniki. Drink with spicy grilled chicken salad, tapas or antipasti, salmon and… the love of your life.

(P.G.I. Thessaloniki)

Emmetros Logos 2018 Tsantali Α beguiling Xinomavro-Syrah (80%-20%) blend that defies convention with unending aromas of blueberries and violets. A refreshing fruity aroma with lovely acidity finish makes it impossible to resist a second taste. (P.G.I. Macedonia)

Limneon 2016 Domaine Porto Carras A medium-to-full-bodied red wine from Sithonia area in Halkidiki and the indigenous grape Limnio. Red fruits with an elegant mouthfeel and a piquant aftertaste are the characteristics of the wine which is produced from vineyards situated at 300m altitude. (P.G.I. Sithonia)

Epiphanis Mylopotamos Wines This Limnio – Merlot blend (80% - 20%) captures the soul of the Mount Athos landscape and the character of an exceptional vineyard site. It is complex with blackberry/mocha flavours intertwined with spicy oak and fine lacey tannins.

(P.G.I. Mount Athos)

Retsina Ampelicious Georgiadis Bros If you're curious about Retsina, this intensely aromatic Greek wine, then we suggest starting with Retsina Ampelicious. Blond in colour and beautifully balanced, with sharp aftertaste and a hint of vanilla, this 100% Savatiano retsina is a prime example of Georgiadis Bros ability to combine long standing traditions with dynamic innovation. (Traditional Appellation Retsina)

Zoiphoros 2018 Messimvria wines

The tear of the Pine Domaine Stelios Kechris

This rosé is an alluring pomegranate pink colour made with Syrah grapes.

There is a strong, rosy and cherry aroma and a lovely acidity that makes it a delight to drink in the warm summer months. It will pair with white fish, chicken and vegetarian dishes. (P.G.I. Thessaloniki)

With this wine Domaine Stelios Kechris has captured the perfect balance between pine and grapes (100% Assyrtiko). The ripe fruit ably supports the toasty oak tones from fermentation + 6 months maturation in new oak barrels.

A must try for retsina lovers looking for something different. (Traditional Appellation Retsina)

Askos, 57 016 Thessaloniki, Greece tel. +30 23950 61626 info@arvanitidis-winery.gr www.arvanitidis-winery.gr

Silver medal @ Mondial du RosĂŠ

WINE

MACEDONIA / AMYNDEON - NAOUSSA - GOUMENISSA | THE WINES

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Amyndeon – Naoussa – Goumenissa The wines Xinomavro Sparkling Rosé demi-sec Amyntas Wines

Gi & Ouranos 2017 Thymiopoulos Vineyards

Who says Xinomavro has to be big, bold, and red? Amyntas Wines takes this often austere red variety and vinifies it as an off-dry, soft and round sparkling rosé brimming with red fruit and sweet baking spice. It’s a perfect aperitif but its pairing with lahanodolmades (stuffed with meat and rolled cabbage leaves) is one to remember. (P.D.O. Amyndeon)

Apostolos Thymiopoulos proposes a beautiful Naoussa, one of the freshest bottles of Xinomavro on the market. The wine pours a gorgeous magenta colour, brimming with fresh, fruity flavours. There's a ripe fruit character that makes it remarkably forward and lush. It’s dry, fin, with a long finish. (P.D.O. Naoussa)

Esprit du Lac 2018 Kir-Yianni

Naoussaia 2013 Fountis Estate

Kir-Yianni is famous for top quality Amyndeon P.D.O. rosés, such as Esprit du Lac, a pale pink coloured Xinomavro. A fresh, fragrant, dry rosé with flavours of flowers and herbs. The grapes are sourced from selected vineyards of Agios Panteleimon within the Amyndeon appellation. (P.D.O. Amyndeon)

The family-owned Xinomavro vineyards slope down the hillsides in the semimountainous Strantza region of Naoussa. The wine shows delightful spicy character, lovely acidity and firm tannins that are very appealing even at this early stage, as Naoussa typically ages for decades. (P.D.O. Naoussa)

Dianthos 2018 Boutari

Merhali 2013 Kelesidis Estate

From Boutari, one of the most recognized Greek names in the world of wine today, comes a brand new rosé from Xinomavro grown in Naoussa. Pale orange/pink in colour. Mineral and stony core to the strawberry fruit with a distinctive savoury, herbal character. Dry and savoury in style, showing intriguing flavours, this would be best with food. (P.G.I. Imathia)

Kelesidis family crafts this Naoussa from the estate’s vineyard in Yiannakohori.

Designed to exhibit a classic style, its secret is hidden in lovely acidity and firm tannins, beautiful fruit and spice. (P.D.O. Naoussa)

Bijoux 2018 Chrisohoou Estate

The family domaine of Stavros Kokkinos is located just outside Naoussa.

Paliokalias single vineyard shows purity, mouthwateringly juicy tannins and flavours of plum, rich berries followed by cleansing tomato and olive leaves on the finish. (P.D.O. Naoussa)

Bijoux, a rare blend of Xinomavro (509%) and Muscat of Alexandria (50%), is a demi-sweet, soft and round rosé, with a gorgeous coral pink hue and a cherries-raspberry-with-hints-of-roses nose. Fruity with lovely focus.

Xinomavro Reserve ‘Vieilles Vignes’ 2015 Alpha Estate When it comes to Amyndeon, Alpha Estate is king and their Old Vine Xinomavro is not to be missed. The grapes come from the single-vineyard block of “Barba Yannis”. The grapes are fermented in horizontal tanks, allowing the slow extraction of tannin and flavours. Dark fruit flavours and smooth tannins make this a red wine lover’s perfect match. (P.D.O. Amyndeon)

Naoussa 2014 Argatia We are extremely fond of complex Xinomavro reds with firm tannins and lovely backbone of acidity. Dr. Haroula Spinthiropoulou, agriculturalist specializing in winemaking and her husband Panagiotis Georgiadis have been able to solidify the extraordinary character and the top quality of this very special wine, vintage after vintage. (P.D.O. Naoussa)

Paliokalias 2014 Stavros Kokkinos Winery

Ï Single Vineyard 2015 Aidarinis Winery Aidarinis family captures the soul of the Goumenissa landscape and the character of an exceptional vineyard site. This single vineyard Xinomavro/ Negoska blend is an elegant red wine, intensely complex with ground coffee/ blackberry aromas. The palate is powerful with mocha flavours intertwined with spicy oak and fine lacy tannins. (P.D.O. Goumenissa)

Goumenissa 2016 Chatzivaritis Estate This Xinomavro-Negoska blend (70%-30%) is a scarlet wine coming from Filiria vineyard. Aromatic on the nose with an undertow of red fruits, clove and racy earthy notes. (P.D.O. Goumenissa)

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Siatista – Velvendos – Pieria The wines

AKADIMIA Efhes... Eratines - White 2018 Pieria Eratini This wine offers the generous textural richness of a well-grown Chardonnay blended with Assyrtiko and Malagousia (50%-30%-20%). Its gentle silkiness carries notes of floral honey, passion fruit and persimmon. That range of fruit character reflects the diversity of fruit sources, from vineyards in Pieria, all made and barrel aged separately before blending. (P.G.I. Macedonia)

Vogiatzi Estate rosé 2018 Vogiatzi Estate A great rosé wine from Velvendos region. It's a beguiling Xinomavro, Tsapournakos {aka CF} (90%-10%) blend that defies convention with unending aromas of red fruits and flowers. A good mouth-watering attack wakes up the palate and gets it ready for vegetable dishes or spicy foods.

(P.G.I. Velvendos)

Pinot Noir 2016 Dio Filoi Estate Thoroughly pretty and pure. Coming from Siatista high-altitude vineyard (680-870m), this is a stylish and very classy fruity, crisp and fresh Pinot. Look for soft cherry, spice and herbal flavours and aromas. (P.G.I. Siatista)

Velvetoinos 2013 Zandes Estate This Xinomavro-Syrah blend comes from bio vineyard of Zandes family in Velvendos. Ripe, warm and spicy with sweet blackcurrant fruit and some tannic grip. A seductive style but with a savoury bite to it, too. (P.G.I. Velvendos)

RESTAURANT

In the centre of Thessaloniki a very charming, cosy restaurant is ready to offer you the most delicious and beautiful flavours.

The Academy restaurant offers daily meals with sophisticated Mediterranean flavours and quality hard to find. The wine list is perfectly suited to style of the restaurant.

Entering the summer mood, chef Konstantinos Markou takes full advantage of fresh vegetables and herbs to produce a repertoire with a classical base that has many resonances of modern cooking.

We open our doors every day to our customers and welcome, equally, business lunches and special events you want to carry out.

We invite you to visit our new restaurant ‘Mystikos Dipnos” (Last Supper), offering authentic byzantine atmosphere and tastes and a beautiful ‘secret’ garden.

Akadimia restaurant 3, Agiou Mina St. Thessaloniki Tel. + 30 2310 521803

Mystikos Dipnos 17, Filippou St. Thessaloniki Tel. + 30 2310 4044485

fb.akadimiaestiatorio triparvisor: akadimia

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WINE

MACED ONIA | OENOTOU RISM STOPS

Macedonia Oenotourism stops - A visit to the wineries 32

Ktima Biblia Chora

K AVA L A Ktima Biblia Chora 40°48'46.45" N 23°59'42.83" E One of the most beautiful wineries in the Northern Greece landscape and a must-see when touring wine country. Founded by two leading Greek oenologists – Vangelis Gerovassiliou and Vassilis Tsaktsarlis.

Info: Kokinohori, Kavala tel. + 30 25920 44974 e-mail: ktima@bibliachora.gr www. bibliachora.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 14.00 by appointment Makedon 40°50'54.83" N 23°04'01.52" E The second winery of Nico Lazaridi (see Drama).

Info: Platanotopos Kavala tel. +30 25210 82049 e-mail: info@nicolazaridi.gr www.chateau-lazaridi.gr Open: by appointment Simeonidis Estate 40°49'11.94" N 23°16'29.40" E Info: Eleohori, Kavala tel. + 3025940 92789 e-mail: hello@simeonidisestate.gr www.simeonidisestate.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 16.00, SA 10.00 – 14.00

Domaine Costa Lazaridi

Lalikos Mountainous Vineyards 41°00'25.74" N 22°24'53.77" E Info: Palea Kavala tel. + 30 2510 836938 e-mail: lalikosw@otenet.gr Tsikrikonis Winery 41°48'27.78" N 22°12'18.44" E Info: Myrtofyto Kavala tel. +30 25940 92059 e-mail: info@tsikrikonis-winery.gr www.tsikrikonis-winery.gr Open daily: 10.00 – 15.00, SA 10.00 – 13.00 DRAMA Domaine Costa Lazaridi 41°07'51.14" N 24°15'19.01"E Founded in 1992, is a leading Greek winery and one of the country’s most significant wine-related developments. Famous for its emblematic wine series.

Info: Adriani, Drama tel. + 30 25210 82231, 25210 82348 e-mail: info@ domaine-lazaridi.gr www.domaine-lazaridi.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 15.30 Nico Lazaridi 41°07'45.54" N 24°16'42.22"E Nico Lazaridi is a solid wine producer from Drama. In a well-designed complex wine aficionados have the opportunity to taste their wines and visit the impressive art gallery.

Wine Art Estate

Info: Agora, Drama tel. +30 25210 82049 e-mail: info@ chateau-lazaridi.com www.chateau-lazaridi.com MO – FR 9.00 – 15.00 Open daily: 10.00 – 13.00 by appointment Wine Art Estate 41°06'09.58" N 24°10'38.53"E Great producers and an elegant winery consisting of two sites linked by an impressive underground tunnel serving as a wine cellar.

Info: Mikrohori Drama tel. 25210 83626 e-mail: info@ wineart.gr www.wineart.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 15.00 Ktima Pavlidis 41°12'03.58" N 23°57'10.62"E The state of the art equipped unit stands out not only for its functionality, but also for the high level of minimalistic aesthetics and a New World wine philosophy.

Info: Kokinogia, Drama tel. + 30 25210 58300 e-mail: info@ktima-pavlidis.gr www.ktima-pavlidis.gr Open daily: 10.00 – 14.00 Oenogenesis Winery 41°06'59.55" N 24°14'46.14"E Mountain views, beautiful vineyards and traditional Macedonia manor house architecture are the features of ‘veteran’ oenologist Bakis Tsalkos winery.

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Ktima Pavlidis

Info: Adriani, Drama tel. +30 25213 01048, 6977587629 e-mail: info@oegenesis.gr www.oenogenesis.gr Open: by appointment Manolesakis Estste 41°08'16.27" N 24°16'12.17"E The estate has been producing wines with fanatical friends for some 30 years.

Info: Adriani Drama tel. +30 25210 82010 e-mail: info@ manolesakis.gr www.manolesakis.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 14.00 Domaine Michaelidi 41°05'45.80" N 24°13'52.86"E Info: Agios Athanassios tel. +30 25210 68394 e-mail: info@domaine-michaelidi.gr www.domaine-michaelidi.gr Open daily: by appointmenet Oenops Wines 41°11'13.73" N 23°56'41.51"E The clean modern aspect of Oenops wines reflect the philosophy of experienced oenologist Nikos Karatzas.

Info: 3rd km Prossotsani - Kato Vrontou, Drama tel. +30 25220 60000 e-mail: info@oenops.gr www.oenopswines.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 15.30

Domaine Porto Carras

Ktima Gerovassiliou

HALKIDIKI

Mylopotamos Mount Athos

Tsantali 40°22'08.35" N 23º02΄49.96΄΄Ε

Mylopotamos is the biggest expanse of land belonging to the Holy Monastery of Megisti Lavra, and wine has been produced here for the last 1000 years.

The Tsantali family has been producing wines, tsipouro and ouzo since 1890. The tour takes visitors through the production area. Tastings are held in the underground cellar.

Info: Agios Pavlos, Halkidiki tel. +30 23990 76100 e-mail: info@tsantali.gr www.tsantali.gr Open daily: by appointment

Info: Agios Efstathios Mylopotamos, Mount Athos tel. +30 2310 522211 e-mail: info@mywines.gr www.mywines.gr Open daily: 10.00 – 13.00, 17.00 – 20.00 Only men can visit it, and only after appointment

Domaine Porto Carras 40°04'35.67" N 23°47'49.21" E

Akrathos Newlands Winery 40°26'56.62" N 23°4005.60" E

Greece’s largest single organic vineyard and one of the largest in Europe. Visits to the estate can include a tour of the winery, wine tasting, walks, picnics among the vines or can be adopted to individual requirements.

Info: 7th km Paleochori - Pyrgadikia, Halkidiki tel. +30 2372 771506 e-mail: chabek@otenet.gr Open daily: 09.00 - 17.00

Info: Neos Marmaras Sithomia, Halkidiki tel. 210 9977200, 23750 77437 e-mail: winetourism@portocarras.com www.portocarraswines.gr Open daily: by appointment Metoxi Chromitsa – Evangelos Tsantalis The revival of this Mount Athos monastery vineyard began in 1973 thanks to Evangelos Tsantalis, the founder of the famous winemaking company.

Info: Metoxi Chromitsa Mount Athos tel. +30 23990 76100 e-mail: info@tsantali.gr www.tsantali.gr

THESSALONIKI Ktima Gerovassiliou 40°27'03.47" N 22°55'29.6"E The state of the art equipped unit stands out not only for its functionality, but also for the high level of aesthetics in the impressive wine museum, which hosts a rich program of cultural, scientific and artistic events.

Info: Epanomi, Thessaloniki tel. +30 23920 44567 e-mail: ktima@ gerovassiliou.gr www.gerovassiliou.gr Open: MO, THU, FR 10.00 - 16.00 WE 13.00 - 19.00 SA – SU 11.00 -17.00 (closed on Tuesdays).

WP PRESENTS DOMAINE FLORIAN

Domaine Florian 40°28'58.53" N 22°58'21.24"E

Arvanitidis Estate 40°44'21.31" N 23°23'13.42" E

This small, modern and well organized winery reflects the care given to its wines. Situated on one of the three hills at the east side of Thessaloniki, with a panoramic view overlooking Thermaikos gulf up to Mount Olympus, welcomes visitors.

Agronomist Thanassis Arvanitidis and his brother George, with deep knowledge of the vine and persistence for quality, installed their own vineyards and their ‘garage’ winery on the eastern slopes of Vertiskos Mountain.

Info: Epanomi, Thessaloniki tel. +30 6986 309594 info: sales@domaineflorian.com www.domaineflorian.com Open daily: by appointment

Info: Askos, Thesssaloniki tel. +30 23950 61626 e-mail: info@arvanitidis-winery.gr www.arvanitidis-winery.gr Open daily: by appointment

Moschopolis Winery 40°26'04.35" N 23°08'07.48"E

Stelios Kechris Winery 40°38'53.00" N 22°51'13.90" E

Info: Monopigado, Thessaloniki tel. + 30 6975 209992 info: info@moschopoliswines.gr www. moschopoliswines.gr

Stelios Kechris, a winemaker born and bred, is one of the forwarders in the realization of the “quality retsina, a contemporary and quality wine based on an age-old tradition”.

Domaine Babatzimopoulos 40°82'71.71" N 23°18'13.79"E The four th generation of these wine and spirits makers continues the tradition which began in 1876 in Constantinople, moved to Greece in 1932 and established a 25 ha organic vineyard on the southwest slopes of Vertiskos Mountain.

Info: Ossa, Thessaloniki tel. +30 2310 519705 email: info@babatzimopoulos.gr www.babatzim.gr Open: by appointment Adam Wines 40°433'13.63" N 23°19'39.40" E Info: Adam, Thessaloniki tel. +30 694 0644102 e-mail: info@adam-oinos.gr www.el.adam-oinos.gr Open: by appointment

Info: 33 Olympou St., K alohori, Thessaloniki tel. +30 2310 751283 e-mail: info@ kechri.gr www.kechri.gr Open daily: 11.00 – 16.00 by appointment

Domaine Florian Domaine Florian, a family run, boutique winery follows a long family tradition in viticulture and winemaking, dedicated to high quality and

Messimvria Wines 40°43'56.65" N 22°46'40.86" E

authentic wine making with emphasis on ecological sustainability.

A guided tour in the organic vineyard, around the areas of production and ageing is rounded off by the wine tasting.

Just a few kilometers away from the city center, situated on one of

Info: Nea Messimvria, Thessaloniki tel. +30 2310 713981 e-mail: info@mesimvriawines.gr www.mesimvriawines.gr Open daily: 08.00 – 17.00

the three hills at the east side of Thessaloniki, with a panoramic view overlooking Thermaikos gulf up to Mount Olympus, our winery, upon request, offers a unique wine experience for all wine lovers out there.

Visiting the vineyards surrounding the winery, the vinification room, the underground ageing cellar, paired with a wine tasting, for everyone wishing to have one, at our cozy space created just to host our guests, accompanied by our wines and stories the Schneider’s have to narrate

Damaskios Winery 40°44'53.64" N 22°46'11.94" E Info: 15, Kuriakou Koumpari St Nea Messimvria, Thessaloniki tel. +30 2310 713711 e-mail: info@ damaskioswinery.gr www. damaskioswinery.gr

about their love for Greece and their passion about making wine, is what this wine tour is all about.

Domaine Florian Epanomi, Thessaloniki www.domaineflorian.com For more information and reservations call +30 6986 30 95 94, Yiannis Botskaris

WINE

MACED ONIA | OENOTOU RISM STOPS

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Boutari / Naoussa Winery

Ktima Kir-Yianni / Naoussa

Argatia Winery

NAOUSSA Boutari / Naoussa Winery 40°60'48.72" N 22°13'03.23" E

Argatia 40°41'22.95" N 22°01'27.12" E

Kokkinos Winety 40°36'52.13" N 22°03'57.81" E

The main production centre of this famous Macedonian wine company. A tour of the winery includes a multimedia show called “In the Environs of Naoussa,” about the history of all three vine-growing regions (Naoussa, Goumenissa-Amyndeo) where the Xinomavro flourishes.

A tour of this small, modern family-run winery by the owner, agricultural expert/oenologist Dr. Haroula Spinthiropoulou, includes an introduction to the principles of organic farming and concludes with a tasting.

Info: Dalamari, Naoussa tel. 2+ 30 3320 21901- 6980 774033 e-mail: kokkinos.naoussawines@gmail.com Open: by appointment

Info: Rodohori, Naoussa tel. +30 23320 51080 e-mail: wine@argatia.gr www.argatia.gr Open: by appointment

Thymiopoulos Vineyards 40°34'22.55" N 22°00'06.51" E

Info: Stenimachos, Imathia tel. +30 23320 59700 e-mail: naoussa.winery@boutari.gr www.boutari.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 15.00 Ktima Kir-Yianni / Naoussa 40°40'18.19" B 22°03'26.22" E In the ‘60s these vineyards in Yiannakohori, the highest elevation of the wine making zone, planted with the Xinomavro contributed to the rebirth of Naoussa’s wine, which had fallen to a low point.

Info: Yiannakohori, Naoussa tel. +30 23320 51100 e-mail: info@ kiryianni.gr www.kiryianni.gr Open: by appointment Domaine Kelesidi 40°40'07.55" N 22°03'34.51" E The visitors have the opportunity to wander in the organic vineyard, see the winery and taste the wines.

Info: Yiannakohori, Naoussa tel. +30 23320 51066, 6974 293379 e-mail: info@ktimakelesidi.gr www.ktimakelesidi.gr Open: by appointment

Estate Foundi 40°39'08.49" N 22°04'38.24" E The family settled in the area along with many other Greek refugees from eastern Thrace and planted their first vineyard, with Xinomavro. Current owner Nikos Foundis, third-generation local, tends the vineyards and produces his wine in a small modern winery.

Info: Nea Strantza, Imathia tel. +30 23320 48255 e-mail: info@ktimafoundi.gr www.ktimafoundi.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 14.00, 17.00 – 20.00 Estate Chrisohoou 40°39'45.28" N 22°05'51.86" E The family winery welcomes wine enthusiasts for a tour of the production facilities, a visit of the wine museum and a delicious tasting.

Info: Nea Strantza, Imathia tel. +30 23320 45080 e-mail: info@chrisohoou.com www.chrisohoou.com Open daily: 08.00 – 14.00

In the southern part of Naoussa zone, Apostolos Thymiopoulos established his vineyards applying biodynamic cultivation.

He was one of the first in Greece to propose a young version of Xinomavro.

Info: Trilofos. Imathia tel. +30 2310 346586 e-mail: thymiopoulosvineyards@yahoo.com www.thymiopoulosvineyards.gr Open: by appointment GOUMENISSA Aidarini Winery 40°56'45.34" Ν 22°27'52.63" Ε The Aidarinis family has been active in the region’s wine and tsipouro production since the end of the 19th century. They welcome visitors for a tour and wine tasting into their new fully equipped winery as well as their traditional picturesque wine cellars.

Info: Goumenissa, Kilkis tel. +30 23430 41239, 23430 42555 e-mail: aidarini@otenet.gr www. aidarini.gr Open daily: 10.30-15.00 , SA, SU: 10.30 - 18.00 by appointment

WINE

W I N E P LU S . G R

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Aidarinis Winery

Alpha Estate

Chatzivaritis Estate 40°53'21.71" Ν 22°28'38.10" Ε

Info: Agios Panteleimonas, Florina tel. +30 23860 61185, 6978 631253 e-mail: info@kiryianni.gr www.kiryianni.gr Open: by appointment

This modern unit is a good choice for those traveling the area and wishing to acquaint themselves with its wine profile. They will have the opportunity to wander in the vineyard, see the winery and taste the wines.

Info: 6th Km of Goumenissa Kilkis Road, Goumenissa, Kilkis tel. + 30 2310 215259, 6977 469030 e-mail: info@chatzivaritis.gr www.chatzivaritis.gr Open daily: 09:00 – 16:00 AMYNDEON Alpha Estate 40°41'40.12" B 21°42'24.38" E Alpha Estate, founded by talented oenologist Angelos Iatridis and vineyard expert Makis Makridis, has discovered exceptional new world charm in this old world region. In their state of the art winery you will enjoy a tour and tasting of their multi award-winning wines.

Info: Amyndeon, Florina tel. +30 23860 20111 e-mail: info@alpha-estate.com www.alpha-estate.com Open daily and weekens: 09.00 – 17.00 by appointment Ktima Kir-Yianni / Amyndeon 40°43'16.84" B 21°44'14.35" E In the welcoming environment of the Yiannis Boutari winery, at Droumo in Agios Panteleimonas, you will enjoy a tour and learn much about the history of the area’s wine.

Amyntas Wines 40°41'38.32" B 21°40'09.92" E A visit to the Amyndeon Cooperative Winery, one of the first cooperatives in Greece, begins in the lovely reception room and continues on to the underground barrel cellar and the production room.

Info: 1st km Amyndeon - Florina tel. 23860 23813 e-mail: info@amyntaswines.gr www.amyntaswines.gr Open daily: 09:30 – 16:00 S I AT I S TA Dio Filoi 40°15'03.11"N 21°33'41.00"E A small family-run winery in a building, which is a faithful replica of an old Siatista house.

We’ll taste the renowned sweet wine of the area in a reception room with a fireplace and traditional furniture. The traditional family cellar is also nearby.

Info: Anapafseos, Siatista, Kozani tel. +30 24650 22224 e-mail: dyofiloi@otenet.gr www.diofili.gr Open daily: 09.00 - 17.00, SA – SU: 11.00 - 15.00

Ktima Vogiantzi

V E LV E N D O S Ktima Vogiantzi 40º15'42.22"Β 22º02'49.73"’Ε Situated at the entrance of Velvendos village, close to Lake Polyfitos, the winery offers an audiovisual presentation of Velvendos’ history, the estate’s history and its tradition in vine cultivation and winemaking.

Info: Velvendos tel. +30 24640 32283 e- mail: info@ktimavoyatzi.gr www.ktimavoyatzi.gr Open daily: by appointment Domaine Zandes 40º15'53.36"Β 22º02'59.56"’Ε The Zandes family has a long tradition of grape cultivation and wine making in the area.

Info: Velvendos, Kozani tel. + 30 24640 32238 e- mail: zandesioannis@yahoo.gr www.ktimazande.gr Open: by appointment PIERIA Ktima Pieria Eratini 40º27'45.08"Β 22º29'17.42"’Ε The Estate was created by the experienced oenologists Pavlos Argiropoulos and Andreas Pantos. Today, in the second successful decade of this enterprise, they vinify their wines and welcome visitors in their vineyards.

Info: Kolindros, Pieria tel. +30 23920 33503, 6972 709011 e-mail: argyropoulospavlos@gmail.com www.ktimapieriaeratini.gr

T H R AC E / M A R O N I A - AV D I R A

WINE

Maronia - Avdira

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Vineyards in the shade of the “golden” Pangeon Mountain Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Thrace, Evros, Ismaros, Avdira

Grape varieties White: SB, Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Muscat of Alexandria Pink: Pamidi, Roditis Red: Limnio, Mavroudi, CS, Grenache Rouge, Merlot, Syrah

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it

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Must try: Famous dishes: Pastrima pie (cured beef ), kebab, pork with pickled vegetables (a traditional dish from Eastern Rumelia), mpampo (a Christmas dish with intestines and ground beef ), manti (ravioli filled with ground beef ), tanosour (wheat soup from Pontos), and for sweets: hanoum bourek (with cream), kataifi, kazandipi Must buy: kavourmas (cured pork) likourinos (smoked fish) tahini from Trace (sesame paste) stragalia (dried and roasted chickpeas) karioka (a chocolate treat), nougat and saragli (rolled baklava) authentic eastern sweets: gkelin bohtsa, seker pare, soutzouk loukoum Restaurants: The perfect food stop Sultan Tepe | Turkish cuisine @Komotini Arnemousi | tavern @Iasmos, Rodopi Ktima | Greek cuisine @National Road Xanthi – Porto Lagos Traditional tavern Kottani | local cuisine @Kottani, Xanthi

Maronia Vineyards surface

Avdira

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4

Maronia

Avdira

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Wineries

Facts Maronia: During the later Copper age at the coastline of the city Ismaros, the inhabitants called Kikones, used to make the Maronian wine which was an aromatic, sweet like honey wine whose colour was red like a flame. This wine was offered as a gift to Odysseus by Maron, the priest of the god Apollo. This was also the wine which the hero of Homer later used to get Polifimos drunk in order to rescue his companions from the cave of Cyclops.

Avdira: In ancient years, a great city was here, the hometown of Democritos where vineyards were diligently grown.

Contemporary viticultural and winemaking activity begun towards the end of the 20th century.

Nowadays, the basic viticultural areas are Avdira, Maronia and Soufli.

Many grape varieties are grown, Greek and international.

Winemakers are displaying an interest in local varieties like the deep-coloured Mavroudi and the reddish Pamidi.

E P I RU S / Ζ Ι Τ S Α - Μ Ε Τ S Ο V Ο

WINE

Ζitsa -Μetsovo

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Αμπελώνες εις τα βουνά ψηλά εκεί...

Most popular grape @Epirus

Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.) Zitsa (1972) white dry white dry semi-sparkling/sparkling white semi-dry semi-sparkling/sparkling white semi-sweet sparkling

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Metsovo white dry/semi-dry/semi-sweet/sweet red dry

Grape varieties White: Debina, Chardonnay, Gewüztraminer Red: CS, Vlahiko, Bekiari, Merlot, Syrah

Grape varieties White: Debina, Gewüztraminer Red: CS, CF, Vlahiko, Merlot

Debina: 61% Cabernet Sauvignon: 10 %

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Mavroudi: 1,64% Vlahiko: 0,73%

Vineyards surface

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12 Vineyards surface

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Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Must try + buy: P.D.O cheeses: Galotyri, Metsovone Epirus pies, wild mushrooms, kontosouvli (roasted meat), sausages, goat cooked in crock pot, goat’s cheese and metsovella, traditional gianniotiko sweet, baklava and siropiasta (sweets dipped in syrup) Restaurants: The perfect food stop Katofi Averof | restaurant & wine bar with local cuisine @Metsovo Galaxias | unique local cuisine @Metsovo Chrisanthos | authentic local cuisine @Ioannina Gastra | the most popular tavern @Ioannina Presvia | international tastes @Ioannina Maison | popular gourmetcoffee-bar @Ioannina

ΖΙΤSΑ

ΜΕΤSΟVΟ

Facts The average altitude of the vineyards in the Protected Designation of Origin Zitsa zone is 650 meters.

The slopes reach up to 800 meters. The annual rain height, the highest in Greece, can easily reach 1.1001.400 mm.

The resilient white variety of Debina is grown in 95% of the Zitsa vineyard.

The wines of Zitsa are known for their stylish citrus aroma, the amazing acidity and the freshness in taste.

Zitsa is one of the just three areas in Greece – the other two are Amyndeon (see p. 20) and Rhodes (see p. 64) – which traditionally produce sparkling wines.

In Metsovo, at Giniets, at an altitude of 950-1.000 meters the highest mountainous vineyard in Greece can be found.

Here is where some of the first Cabernet Sauvignon plantations took place in Greek soil.

Vlahiko is probably the most interesting red local variety of Epirus.

ΒΛΑΧΙΚΟ

Ερυθρός Ξηρός Παλαιωμένος Οίνος ΠΓΕ Ιωαννινα

DEBINA RESPECT

Λευκός Ξηρός Οίνος ΠΟΠ Ζίτσα Ντεμπίνα 100%

AURELIA

Ροζέ Ημίξηρος ΑφρώδηςΟίνος ΠΓΕ Ήπειρος

ΖΙΤΣΑ ημιαφρώδης

Λευκός Ξηρός Ημιαφρώδης Οίνος ΠΟΠ Ζίτσα • Ντεμπίνα 100%

Ζίτσα Ιωαννίνων • Tηλ.: 2651 0 66055• www.zoinos.gr • info@zoinos.gr

T H R AC E - E P I RU S | T H E W I N E S | O E N OTO U R I S M S TO P S

WINE

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Vourvourkelis Estate

Thace - Epirus The wines

Pamidi rosé 2018 Vourvoukelis Estate Vourvoukelis Estate new label is a pale pink coloured wine. A fresh, fragrant, dry rosé with flavours of flowers and herbs. Delicately fruity with lovely focus and good acidity is a superb wine for aperitif or summer parties. The grapes are sourced from selected vineyards of Avdira.

(P.G.I. Avdira)

Seirios rosé 2018 Zoinos This rosé offering from white Debina (70%) and red Vlahiko + Bekiari grapes (30%) grown on steep limestone slopes of Zitsa region shows tons of regional character, not to mention terrific personality. A refreshing fruity aroma with lovely acidity finish makes it impossible to resist a second taste. (P.G.I. Epirus)

Rossiu di Munte Vlahiko 2015 Katogi Averoff From Katogi-Averof celebrated estate, Vlahiko is an incredibly flavourful wine coming from Metsovo high-altitude vineyard. The colour is deep ruby; the aromas are of raspberry, cedar, new leather and smoked meat; the palate is balanced yet impactful. It is ready to drink, but will also reward cellaring. (P.G.I. Metsovo)

Zoinos

Oenotourism stops - A visit to the wineries THRACE

EPIRUS

Vourvoulekis Estate 40°59' 32 58'' N 24°57' 10 34'' Α

Katogi Averoff 39°46'22.70" N 21°11'08.98" E

At the entrance of Avdira, 20 km from the city of Xanthi, in the lovely stone winery you will be well-informed of the wine production process, from the vineyard to aging in underground cellars and bottle maturation.

Already in the sixth decade of continuing presence in the Greek wine industry, Katogi Averoff is always ready to welcome visitors for a tour and wine tastings in a beautiful building designed according to the traditional architecture of the area. Right next to the winery with a view of the mountain slopes of Pindos, one can find the 4* Hotel Katogi Averoff, an utterly atmospheric hotel with an intense focus on wine.

Info Avdira, Xanthi tel. +30 25410 51580 e-mail: info@vourvoukeli.gr www.vourvoukeli.gr Opern daily: 10.00 – 15.00 by appontment Anatolikos Vineyards 40°58' 52 61'' N 24°56' 37 92'' Α The northernmost seaside vineyards in Greece, created in 2003 at Avdira by brothers Sakis and Marios Nikolaidis.

Info Avdira, Xanthi tel. +30 25410 92092 e-mail: info@anatolikoswinery.gr www.anatolikoswinery.gr Tsantali The revival of the Maronia vineyard began at the early ’90s by Evangelos Tsantalis, who had always been interested in historical vineyards in cooperation with the areas vintners.

Info τηλ. 23990 76100 www.tsantali.com

Info: Metsovo, Ioannina tel. + 30 26560 31490 e-mail: winery@katogi-averoff.gr www.katogiaveroff.gr Open daily: 10.00 – 16.00 Zoinos 39°45'15.28" N 20°38'25.66" E At the Zoinos winery you’ll have a tasting of wines produced from the grapes of the local winemakers-members of the cooperative and see how the idea of cooperatives can be combined with modern technical knowledge.

Info: Zitsa, Ioannina tel. + 30 26580 22297 e-mail: info@zoinos.gr, customerservice@zoinos.gr www.zitsawine.gr Open daily: 0 9.00 – 15.00 SA – SU by appointment

TAKE A SEAT LIDL TAKES YOU ON A JOURNEY TO GREEK TASTES. YOU ONLY HAVE TO CHOOSE THE WINE.

Greek products are known for their unique taste and distinctive quality. That’s why we collaborate with 400 Greek suppliers and only select the best of their produce.

To ensure quality, each product goes through quality controls before taking its place on our shelves.

This is how we can offer you the highest quality at the lowest possible price.

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T H E S S A LY / R A P S A N I – T I R N AV O S – M E T E O R A

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Rapsani – Tirnavos – Meteora 44

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Rapsani (1971) Red dry

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Tirnavos

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Meteora

Grape varieties Red: Xinomavro, Krassato, Stavroto

Grape varieties White: Savatiano, Malagousia, Debina, Chardonnay, SB Pink: Roditis Red: Muscat of Hamburg, Limniona, Limnio, CS, Merlot, Syrah, Grenache Rouge

Grape varieties White: Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Debina, Batiki, Chardonnay Pink: Roditis Red: Xinomavro, CS, Syrah, Cinsault, Limniona, Vlahiko

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RAPSANI

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Must try + buy: P.D.O. Elassona lamb and goat meat, Zagora apples, Pilio Firiki Piliou (smaller apples), Agrafa Graviera cheese, Pilio Konservolia (olives) Tsitsiravla (greens), pies from the local cuisine: wild greens pie, pispilita (zuchinni pie with corn flour), kasata pie with dough, feta cheese and leaks.

Meat dishes: kokoretsi, kebab, sausage with leaks Desserts: famous Halva from Farsala, spatula: walnut pie with cream and almonds Restaurants: The perfect food stop Apomero | Greek cuisine @Karditsa Ziogas | meat taverne @Kastraki, Meteora

150 Vineyards surface

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TIRNAVOS

Facts The majority of the vineyards in the Rapsani zone are planted on the south slopes of Mount Olympus, at an altitude reaching 800 meters, in the areas of Rapsani and Pyrgetos.

Nearly all the vines are cup-shaped and densely planted. In some of the mountainous vineyards, the plant density is 10.000 plants/ha.

Rapsani is known for multi-dimensional red wines with vigour and grace. Xinomavro, Krassato and Stavroto participate in their varietal composition in the same percentages as they can be found in the vineyards.

P.G.I. Krania: The grapes selected for its varietal composition are solely international: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay. This is the reason why the area was excluded from the P.D.O. Rapsani

50 Vineyards surface

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METEORA

zone in which it was originally included.

The majority of the Thessaly vineyards are in Tirnavos, with the dominant variety being Muscat Hamburg, grown in 67% of the total vineyard area.

Among the rest of the varieties which used to be grown in Tirnavos, we find the red Limniona, a rare Greek variety, which managed to survive thanks to the sincere efforts of the winemakers.

The vineyards for the production of P.G.I. Meteora are planted on slopes at altitudes beginning at 150 meters and reaching all the way up to 800 meters.

The soil presents a great variety in its composition due to the rare formation of the rocks in Meteora. It is the basic component, however, which is schist that provides for very good drainage.

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/ LOVE, KNOWLEDGE,RESPECT TO TRADITION” THE FUNDAMENTAL INGREDIENTS FOR THE CREATION OF OUR WINES. OUR GOAL IS TO DELIVER THE EXPRESSION OF OUR VINEYARD, ITS AROMAS AND FLAVOR /

D I S T R I B U T O R W. S . K A R O U L I A S

CEN TR AL GREECE

WINE

Fthiotida - Evia - Attica 46

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Atalanti valley, Opountia Lokris, Slopes of Knimida, Parnassos, Martino

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Evia, Avlida, Lilantio Pedio, Karistos, Ritsona

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Attica, Anavissos, Vilitsa, Slopes of Pentelikon, Gerania, Ilion, Koropi, Markopoulo, Paiania, Pallini, Slopes of Kitherona, Slopes of Parnitha, Spata

Grape varieties White: Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Robola, Savatiano, Chardonnay, SB, Trebbiano Pink: Roditis Red: CS, CF, Syrah, Merlot, Limnio, Aglianico

Grape varieties White: Assyrtiko, Aidaini, Athiri, Malagousia, Monemvasia, Savatiano, Chardonnay, SB, Trebbiano Pink: Roditis Red: Vradiano, Agiorgitiko, Karabraimis, Liatiko, Black Koudoura (Mantilaria), Grenache Rouge, CS, Syrah, Merlot

Grape varieties White: Savatiano, Assyrtiko, Athiri, Malagousia, Chardonnay, SB, Viognier Pink: Roditis Red: CS, Grenache Rouge, Merlot, Syrah

1.130 Vineyards surface

ha

9 Wineries

FTHIOTIDA

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Must try + buy: P.D.O. Atalanti konservolia (olives), Stilida konservolia, Rovia konservolia, Troizinia extra virgin olive oil, Sperchios kiwi, Vravrona Markopoulo Mesogea figs, Kimi dried figs, Arahova Parnassos formaela (hard cheese), Fthiotida pistachios, Megara pistachios

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1.400 11 Vineyards surface

ha

Wineries

EVIA

6.493 33 Vineyards surface

ha

Wineries

ATTICA

Facts Grown in the very warm and dry climate of Central Greece are the white grapes Savatiano and Roditis for the production of huge quantities of retsina (the first Greek wine with Traditional Designation) and many table wines.

maximum 350 meters. The area is mostly devoted to white grapes. Savatiano is the dominant grape, covering approximately 4/5 of the total area.

Since the late 80’s there has been an effort to plant more grapes, indigenous and not.

Paying special attention to the location of the vineyard in order to achieve high quality and low yields, the results were remarkable, the wines “took off”, and dozens of P.G.I. indications were approved.

The revival of the exceptional red local varieties, Mouhtaro and Vradiano, is especially interesting.

In Fthiotida and Viotia, the vineyards were planted on the slopes of the mountains and the plains, where the moderate influence by the sea and the protective mountain column create the perfect terroir for the production of quality grapes.

In Evia, the vineyards reach altitudes of

In the south part of the island, Greek Aegean sea varieties have been planted.

Viticulture in Attica has been in decline due to the rising urbanization. Nevertheless, 6.500 ha are still cultivated, making Attica the largest viticultural region in Central Greece.

Over the past few years, a good number of producers in Attica and Central Greece have been introducing the new and contemporary face of Savatiano, the result of significant work in the vineyards and wineries.

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There are only a few ways to stay classy... choose wisely W W W . H A T Z I M I C H A L I S . G R

WINE

T H E S S A LY – C E N TA L G R E E C E | T H E W I N E S

48

Thessaly – Cental Greece The wines Muscat Artisti 2018 semi-sparkling Georgios Lafazanis Winery

Limniona Rosé 2018 Domaine Zafeirakis

Savoury semi-sparkling white Muscat. Ripe peaches and roses: the aromas intrigue us. Its code is medium sweet, but in fact, there's just a touch of sweetness, enough to soften it and give it a luxurious mouthfeel.

Domaine Zafeirakis targets certain vineyard parcels specifically for this pink hue rosé from Limniona grape, which shows terrific personality. Expect flavours and aromas of cherries and strawberries with hints of wild herbs and pepper. (P.G.I. Tirnavos)

Muscat of Tirnavos 2018 Domaine Migas

With this semi-sparkling white wine (Blanc de noirs) Domaine Migas has captured the essence of the aromatic grape Muscat of Hamburg. Extremely fine with an undertow of roses and delicious racy fruit tones. (P.G.I. Tirnavos)

Strofilia white 2018 Strofilia

Appealing and refreshing every-day white. Roditis and Sauvignon Blanc blend, it shows good varietal flavours of citrus fruits, peaches, wildflowers and fine acidity. Wine’s delicious fruit and round flavour matches perfectly the Mediterranean cuisine. (P.G.I. Peloponnese)

Kapnias white 2017, vineyard Zygos Domaine Hatzimihalis

What a beautiful Chardonnay! Fruit is sourced from selected plots of the privately owned vineyard in Central Greece. Matured in French oak, its ripe fruit ably supports the toasty oak tones. Mouth-watering for food but not overpowering, it has an almost exotic apricot, almond-nutty, biscotti aroma.

(P.G.I. Atalanti Valley)

Malagousia 2018 Lykos Winery This Malagousia comes from estate’s vineyard in Evia. Dense, fine and wellbalanced by a fresh seam of acidity. Lovely fruity aromas lead to exotic spice nuances, and a long finish. (P.G.I. Evia)

Assyrtiko sur Lie 2017 Vriniotis Winery A pure expression of Assyrtiko that is fermented with wild yeasts (40%) and subject to 6 months batonnage on fine yeast deposits. This is a truly outstanding wine that boasts impeccable intensity and elegance. (P.G.I. Evia)

Theopetra Estate rosé 2018 Theopetra Estate A blend of Limniona and Syrah (70% - 30%) both grown organically in estate’s vineyard. Groovy and crisp with hints of strawberry and blackberries.

Delightfully mature and full-bodied with deep rich stony aromas and herbs flavours. (P.G.I. Meteora)

Mouhtaro 2017 Muses Estate

This is a scarlet wine coming from Viotia vineyards and the rare grape Mouhtaro. Aromatic on the nose with an undertow of red fruits and racy earthy notes. A good youthful, mouth-watering attack wakes up the palate and gets it ready for food. (P.G.I. Thebes)

Collection 2014 Avantis Estate A masterfully-made, multi award-winning Greek Syrah, it represents the epitome of the style that has made the grape world renowned: rich and spicy with lovely aromas of blackberry, cassis and black pepper leading to concentrated fruit flavours, exotic spice nuances, and a long toasty finish.

(P.G.I. Evia)

Rapsani Reserve 2014 Tsantali Grown on the hillside vineyards on Mount Olympus slopes, this blend of Xinomavro, Krassato, Stavroto with 24 months of oak & bottle aging is a prime example of Tsantali ability to combine long standing traditions with dynamic innovation. Well-rounded, harmonious and rich. (P.D.O. Rapsani)

Ktima Katsaros red 2013 Ktima Katsaros The CS and Merlot grapes for this wine are grown in the eastern foothills of Mount Olumpus. The high altitude (750 m) creates rich, full-bodied wines.

Classic Bordeaux-style, balanced with aromas of cassis, black currant and spicy flavours. (P.G.I. Krania)

Oenotria Land Cabernet Sauvignon & Agiorgitiko 2016 Costa Lazaridi

Balance, complexity, élan, aplomb, verve... haven't I forgotten anything? Rich warmth. I'm helpless in the face of such concentration! Made from CS and Agiorgitiko from the Attica vineyard with extremely low yields, this round, smooth-textured red shows the best of both varieties. (P.G.I. Attica)

WINE

T H E S S A LY – C E N T R A L G R E E C E | OENOTOU RISM STOP S

Oenotourism stops - A visit to the wineries 50

Tsantali / Rapsani

Domaine Zafeirakis

Theopetra Estate

T H E S S A LY

Info Palaiomylos, Tyrnavos tel. +30 24920 25280 e-mail: zafeirakischristos@gmail.com www.domainezafeirakis.gr Open: by appointment

CENTRAL GREECE

Domaine Katsaros 39°55'41.09" N 22°33'30.57" E Domaine Katsaros is a small family enterprise established in 1985, in Krania, at an altitude of approximately 800 metres on the slopes of Mount Olympus.

Info: Krania, Larissa tel. +30 2410 536811, 24950 41666 e-mail: info@ktimakatsarou.gr www.ktimakatsarou.gr Open: by appointment Tsantali / Rapsani Tsantali, proposes ‘Rapsani Wine Adventure’a thrilling ride in an off-road vehicle, with spots at the scattered vineyards on the foothills of Mount Olympus, to taste their wines along the way.

Info tel. +30 23990 76100 www.tsantali.com Visits by appointment Domaine Zafeirakis 39°43'19.51" N 22°16'24.13" E The Zafeirakis family is involved with the viticulture in the area of Tirnavos for more than 100 years. Christos Zafeirakis, the fourth in the line who continues the family tradition, takes the family business to the next level by bottling fine wines from his private vineyards and achieving the revival the local variety Limniona.

Domaine Migas 39°43'03.06" N 22°16'28.16" E Domaine Migas specializes in Muscat bottlings from Tirnavos region. The family vineyard is extended to more than 120 ha in Palaios Abelos site, where they run an impressive winery.

Info 3ο km. Tirnavos - Kozani road tel. +30 24920 25215 e-mail: info@domaine-migas.gr www.domaine-migas.gr Open: by appointment Theopetra Estate 39°37'08.57" N 21°44'26.84" E This is the Tsililis family’s (producers of famous tsipouro) estate. The vineyards extend around the prehistoric cave of Theopetra at the foothills of Meteora Rocks.

In their icon winery they highlight the terroir’s particularities.

Info Raxa, Trikala tel. +30 24310 85885 e-mail: edra@tsililis.gr www.tsililis.gr Open: by appointment

Domaine Hatzimichali 38°48'25.09" N 23°01'25.36" E Since ‘70s with the first harvest in Atalanti, ‘80s with the first bottled Greek Cabernet Sauvignon that helped to bring out the potential of the ‘small’ wine producers and to this day Dimitris Hatzimichalis passionately guides the estate's choices. Now his assistants in this effort are his two sons. Eight vineyards, a state-of-the-art winery and the estate's restaurant await the visitors.

Info Atalanti, Fthiotida tel. +30 210 8075512, 22330 23172 e-mail: info@hatzimichalis.gr www.hatzimichalis.gr Open: by online booking Muses Estate 38°18'39.21" N 23°06'42.32" E In the Valley of Muses, the homeland of Hesiod -one of the greatest poets of ancient Greece- lie the vineyards of Zacharias family.

The three brothers took over and successfully completed the renewal of the estate that was founded by their grandfather in 1946.

Info Askri, Viotia tel. +30 22620 67290 www.musesestate.com Open: by appointment

W I N E P LU S . G R

WINE

51

Domaine Hatzimichali

Avantis Estate

Avantis Estate 38°26'22.99" N 23°38'32.87" E

Vriniotis Winery 38°52'01.93" N 22°58'24.30" E

Roxani Matsa Estate 37°59'11.89" N 23°51'47.32" E

Avantis estate is the vision of winemaker Apostolos Mountrihas who put flesh and bones on the family wine tradition, starting the production of quality wines in Mytikas about 25 years ago. Today they are one of the top quality Syrah producers in Greece and a lively oenotourism spot.

The Vriniotis winery is based in Gialtra, a small village in northern Euboea. It operates throughout the year and welcomes visitors who may taste its wines while enjoying the captivating view, for one can behold the vineyard, the northern Euboekos Gulf and the Oreoi passage that leads to the Aegean sea.

The Matsa Estate is a historical vineyard of 12.2 ha, cultivated since the end of the 19th century. With the Boutari corporation’s (see p. 30, 70, 71) collaboration, Roxane Matsa, an authentic viniculturist, Wine Personality of 2001 for the Greek Wine Press Union, has undertaken the continuance of this tradition.

Info Mytikas, Lilantio Halkida, Evia tel. +30 22210 55350 e-mail: info@avantiswines.gr www.avantisestate.gr Open daily: 10.00 – 16.00 SA 11.00 – 16.00, SU 11.00 – 15.00

Info Gialtra, Aedipsos, Evia tel. +30 22260 32429 e-mail:salescontact@vriniotiswinery.gr www.vriniotiswinery.gr Open daily: 12.00 – 15.00, 18.00 – 21.00 by appointment

Info 61, Leontariou st.

Kantza, Attica tel. +30 210 6659058 e-mail: ktimamatsa@boutari.gr www.boutari.gr Open: by appointment

Lykos Winery 38°24'09.48" N 23°45'03.58" E

Oenotria Land 38°13'53.80" N 23°52'11.92" E

Strofilia Estate 37°44'59.73" N 23°57'39.52" E

In a gorgeous natural setting, in north Attica, we will find the second wine complex of Domaine Costa Lazaridi, the first being in Drama (see page 30). It consists of vineyards, an excellently equipped winery, underground ageing cellars, halls and an impressive wine museum that provide the visitor with a comprehensive overview of the wine, spirits and vinegar production.

Decorated inside and out with works by contemporary Greek artists, the Strofilia’s winery is equipped with dozens of tanks, climatically-controlled storage areas and a separate visitors’ centre where a number of wine-related events are held each year.

Lykos Winery was founded in 1991 by Apostolos Lykos. The idea of its creation came as a sequence of the family`s restaurant which produced its own wine to serve its customers. The restaurant is still running next to the winery and both welcome visitors.

Info Malakontas, Evia tel. +30 22290 68222 email: info@lykoswines.gr www.lykoswines.gr Open daily

Info 2ο km. Kapandriti – Kalamos road Kapandriti, Attica Tel. +30 22950 52213, 52214 e-mail: kapandriti@domaine-lazaridi.gr www.domaine-lazaridi.gr Open daily: 09.00 - 17.30, SA - SU: 11.00 - 15.00

Oenotria Land

Info Patitiria, Anavyssos, Attica tel. +30 22910 41650 e-mail: info@strofiliawines.gr www.strofiliawines.gr Open daily

PELOPONNESE / ΝΕΜΕ Α

WINE

Nemea

52

For the fans of Agiorgitiko and many more!

Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.) Νemea (1971) red dry/semi-sweet/ sweet Grape varieties Red: Agiorgitiko

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Must try: Mpogana from Argos (lamb with potatoes from Tripoli, tomatoes and spices, slowly cooking in a wood-fired oven), roasted pork or goat, pies

3.000 Vineyards surface

ha

40 Wineries

220.000 Annual Wine Production

ΗL

Must buy: P.D.O. Lygourio Asklipiou, Kranidi Argolida, Troizinia Extra virgin olive oil P.G.I. Feneo fava (split pea puree), Feneo vanilies beans Artichoke from Iria Asini Nafplio, pomegranate from Ermioni, melon from Argos Facts P.D.O. Nemea, the only Greek zone stretching into two regions (Corinthia and Argolida).

The viticultural area of Nemea is the largest in Greece with Agiorgitiko being the dominant grape.

The Greek Wine Institute conducted a year-long survey of viticultural nature in the area. The results defined three production zones:

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Α: the plains which reach the lower slopes at an altitude of 200-350 meters.

B: the semi-mountainous, which stretches on the slopes at 300-600 meters. The famous deep coloured wines of Nemea are produced here.

C: and the mountainous which reaches 600-800 meters and gives pleasant rosé and fresh red wines, which are released in the same year as their production.

Nemea is known for: • deep-coloured, juicy, soft and fruity fresh reds • and the plethoric aged red wines with volume and density.

The zone offers the greatest number (> 100) of Greek P.D.O. labels – at all price levels.

Must attend: Great Days of Nemea | with various wine events September Agrotourism Festival @Ancient Epidavros Artichoke Festival @Iria

The procedure of creating viticultural subzones (cru) which will be legislated and protected as distinguished quality subzones is in process. The need to conduct clone selection of the Agiorgitiko is stressed, as a great differentiation has been noticed in the ampelographic characteristics of this variety within the zone.

Top vintages: 2013, 2010, 2004, 2003

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PELOPONNESE / M AN TINIA

WINE

Mantinia

54

Where Moschofilero thrives Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.) Μαntinia (1971) white dry/sparkling Grape varieties White: Asproudes Pink: Moschofilero

1.250 Vineyards surface

ha

11 Wineries

54.800 Annual Wine Production

ΗL

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Must try Mpogana from Argos (lamb), lagoto (beef stew in red sauce), cured meats Must buy: P.D.O. Pilafa Tripoli ‘Delicious’ apples, Elati Menalos Vanilia honey, Leonidio Tsakoniki eggplant Potatoes from Tripoli, garlic from Tripoli, hand-woven textiles from Tsakonia Restaurants: The perfect food stop Drimonas | traditional local dishes @Dimitsana Ta kokkina pitharia | emphasis on local mountainous tastes @Vitina Deipnosofistes | local cuisine with room for creative nuances @Vitina Must visit: Pausanias’ Vinetree @Klitoria Kalavrita. It is considered to be the oldest vine in the world and it is a protected monument of nature.

Facts The vineyards of this zone are located in the northeast of Tripoli, at an altitude of over 650 meters with poor and well-drained soils.

The vines in Mantinia usually mature in the second fortnight of September, which is quite late for an area in southern Greece.

The dominant variety is Moschofilero, at about 85%, one of the most aromatic varieties in Greece, with a reddish skin.

The most important biotypes (clones) of Moschofilero are: • Mavrofilero which gives wines with high alcohol levels and good acidities. This is the reason why it is used as the backbone of the P.D.O. wines.

• Xanthofilero and Asprofilero which give wines with low alcoholic degrees and high acidities. They are mainly used for the production of sparkling wines.

The duet Mantinia/Moschofilero is quite possibly the only “white” in Greece which can give a number of completely different types of wine products: • elegant white wines with aromatic intensity • light-coloured (Provence type) delicate rosés • scintillating sparkling wines (with P.D.O. indication since 2011).

Nowadays, one can find at least 45 P.D.O. Mantinia labels, from 11 wineries within the zone and 20 outside the zone.

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P E L O P O N N E S E / M E S S I N I A – I L I A - L A KO N I A

WINE

Messinia – Ilia - Lakonia 56

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Messinia, Pylia, Trifilia

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Ilia, Letrina, Pisatis

Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.) Monemvasia-Malvasia (2010) white sweet Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Lakonia

Grape varieties White: Assyrtiko, Robola, Skiadopoulo, Fileri, Asproudes, Ugni Blanc, Chardonnay, SB, Viognier Reddish: Roditis Red: Agiorgitiko, Mavrodaphne, Fokiano,, Avgoustiatis, Korinthiaki, Mantilaria, Mavroudi, Merlot, Refosco, Syrah, CS, CF, Grenache rouge, Negroamaro, Mourvedre, Carignan

4.310 2 Vineyards surface

ha

Wineries

MESSINIA

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Must try Lupin, roasted pig, tsiladia (fried cod with tomatoes and raisins), fried lalagia (pancakes), salted pork meat Rooster from Vardounia, smoked trout, siglino from Mani (salted pork meat) Must buy: Extra virgin olive oil: P.D.O. Kalamata, Krokees Laconia, Petrina Laconia, Foiniki Laconia P.G.I. Laconia, Olympia Cheeses: P.D.O. feta, sfela P.D.O. Kalamata olives P.G.I. Ilia raisins Talagani (cheese), strawberries, tomatoes, watermelons, Kalamata dried figs, pasteli (sesame bars), balsamic vinegar Vatikiotiko onion, gkogkes (pasta), macaroons from Monemvasia

3.590 3 Vineyards surface

ha

Wineries

ILIA

Facts Messinia ecosystem: relatively low altitude, fertile soil, moderate climate, plenty of sunshine and dry / warm conditions during maturation of the grapes. This ecosystem has defined the varietal composition of its vineyards.

Of the Greek varieties, the ones that were planted are Roditis, Fileri, Assyrtiko and the reds Mantilaria, Mavrodaphne, Fokiano, Korinthiaki, Agiorgitiko, Avgoustiatis.

However, the vine growers mainly worked with foreign varieties which cover the largest section of the vineyards.

The vineyards in Ilia are located in the fertile soils of the plains, with large water reserves from the rivers Alfios and Pinios, in the western and central part of the prefecture, around Pyrgos, ancient Olympia and Amaliada.

Grape varieties White: Kidonitsa, Monemvasia, Assyrtiko, Asproudes, Petroulianos, Gewürztraminer Reddish: Roditis Red: Mavroudi, Agiorgitiko

667 Vineyards surface

ha

9 Wineries

LAKONIA

The vineyards around Pyrgos produce the P.G.I. Letrina wines, from Refosco – a red grape of north Italian origin, and Mavrodaphne.

Monemvasia in Laconia was historically known for its wine, the legendary Malvasia, which had been traded by the Venetians and the Genoese since the 12th century A.D. The Francs had named the castle of Monemvasia, at the edge of the Laconian peninsula, Malvasia. Τhe same name was used to call the whole area, the grape variety, as well as the wine, the famous byzantine Monemvasian wine.

Back to today, the wine was established in 2010 as designation Monemvasia-Malvasia.

The white variety Monemvasia participates by 50% in the sun-dried P.D.O. MonemvasiaMalvasia combined with the grapes Asproudes and Kidonitsa.

P E L O P O N N E S E / AC H A I A

WINE

Achaia

57

Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.) Patras (1972) white dry Mavrodaphne of Patras (1971) red sweet Muscat of Patras (1971) white sweet Muscat of Rio Patras (1971) white sweet

Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Achaia, Slopes of Egialia, Slopes of Pertoto

Grape varieties White: Muscat White, Sideritis, Asproudes, Malagousia, Lagorthi, Volitsa, Athiti, Santameriana, Chardonnay, SB, Riesling Reddish: Roditis Red: Mavrodaphne, Mavroudi, Mavro Kalavritino, Aglianico, Avgoustiatis, Korinthiaki, CS, Syrah, Grenache Rouge, Merlot

Egialia zone at a glance Vineyards surface: 6.000 ha Wine producing vineyards surface: 1.100 ha

6.750

36

58%

Wineries

Wine production

white

Roditis vineyards surface: 950 ha Wineries: 9

Vineyards surface

ha

red

42%

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Must try + buy P.D.O. Corinthian raisin Vostitsa Honey from Erimanthos and Helmos, tentura (digestif ) Restaurants: The perfect food stop I kouzina tis Kornilias | home-made dishes @Patras Lavyrinthos | very old wine tavern @Patras Fayum | bistrot @Patras Michalis | fish tavern @Trapeza beach, Egio Liotrivi | luxurious restaurant @Semantron traditional village.

Eleonas, Diakopto Katafigio | tradistional tavern @Kalavrita Avli | fine meat dishes @Kalavrita Planitero | they can cook trout in 9 different ways! @Kalavrita Must attend Oinoxeneia | various wine events - August

Facts The vineyard area in Achaia is huge for Greek standards considering that it comprises 12% of the total vineyard area of the country.

More than 80% is planted with white varieties.

The region was “put on the map� 170 years ago, thanks to the production of the famous sweet fortified wine, Mavrodaphne.

The main and basic variety, exclusive to P.D.O. Patras, is Roditis. Having 8 clones, some of which being very productive, it is grown in 75% of the vineyards.

In the sweet P.D.O. Mavrodaphne, Korinthiaki grape can also contribute up to 50%.

The white Muscat, which produces the P.D.O.s Muscat of Patras and Rio Patras, steals the show when it comes from the semi mountainous vineyards over Rio. The most impressive vineyards of Achaia, and for many people the most beautiful in Greece, can be found on the slopes of Egialia. At an altitude of 500-900 meters, they overlook the Corinthian Bay. "Egialia should be producing great white terroir wines!" Winemakers and experts are considering the nomination of the viticultural zone of Egialia for a separate P.D.O. zone.

WINE

PELOPONNESE / ΝΕΜΕ Α | THE WINES

58

Nemea The wines

Megas Oinos 2015 George Skouras

Geometria Agiorgitiko 2017 Lafazanis Winery

Megas Oinos is George Skouras’s portfolio absolute legendary wine. Featuring Agiorgitiko and CS (80% - 20%) it shows off the virtues of both grapes. Opulent aromas of cherry, plums, spice and oak, in which it was aged for 20 months.

Luscious texture and complexity. (P.G.I. Peloponnese)

An ultra-clean Agiorgitiko from Nemea region. Clearly made in a leaner style than high-alcohol cult style, it trades richness for elegance and finesse. With a wonderful freshness and mouth-watering juiciness to balance the acidity. The mouth-feel is velvety, smooth and long lasting. (P.G.I. Peloponnese)

Nemea Reserve 2015 Ktima Driopi

Spilia 2015 Pirgakis Estate

Yiannis Tselepos with this Agiorgitiko has captured the essence of Nemea appellation zone. It’s a rich and appealing age worthy wine, with the density of flavours and complex structure that low-yielding mountain grapes give.

(P.D.O. Nemea)

A special Nemea well-rounded, harmonious, and rich with a lingering finish.

14months in nearly all-new oak provide a framework of smoky caramel, delicious enough, but just an accompaniment to the blackberries, black currants, cherries and dark chocolate. (P.D.O. Nemea)

Νεμέα Reserve 2015 Semeli

Idea Nemea 2017 Barafakas Estate

A kaleidoscope of scents and flavours, this Nemea is a fascinating study of Agiorgitiko. With beautiful fruit and spice, it spent 12 months in new oak barriques, plus 12 months in bottles. Rich and appealing, it should develop over the next decade. (P.D.O. Nemea)

The cool climate of semi-mountainous vineyards gives this Agiorgitiko a wonderful freshness and mouth-watering juiciness to balance the acidity.

The mouth-feel is velvety, smooth and long lasting. Perfect wine for everyday drinking. (P.D.O. Nemea)

Gaia Estate 2016 Gaia Wines

Sklava 2018 Zacharia Vineyards

Deeply coloured, incredibly flavourful, rich, velvety textured…, a terrific red wine. Once appeared it has changed the appellation’s orientation and future.

Look for plush, generous texture, plum fruit, cherry and spice flavours. (P.D.O. Nemea)

This clean and refreshing wine, offering fruity nose, fresh lime aromas and flavours, proves the perfect harmony between the old grape variety Sklava and Nemea region. I’d serve this as an aperitif but could imagine it going very happily with white fish dishes.

Terroir 2004 Estate Papaioannou

Saumon 2018 Domaine Harlaftis

Thanassis Papaioannou is Greek wine icon. His deep knowledge of the vine gave birth to this archetype Nemea from the selected parcels of his vineyards still planted with old vines. A beautiful wine. Smooth as silk on the palate with smoky ripe plums and deep mocha. (P.D.O. Nemea)

This 100% CS rosé comes from Nemea region. Domaine Harlaftis targets certain vineyard parcels specifically for this elegant wine which shows terrific personality. Full of savoury and persistent apple-rose-geranium flavour this lively and bright rosé is a perfect aperitif but could imagine it going very happily with poached salmon. (P.G.I. Peloponnese)

Terra Leone Ammos Reserve 2016 Palivos Estate When I visited for the first time the vineyards of Palivos Estate, I gazed up at the hill where the old vines for this wine grow. It was an incredible sight and the wine that comes from there is even better. This full-bodied Nemea has hints of blackberry, toast, coffee and spice. (P.D.O. Nemea)

Rosé 2018 Miravelas Estate This Ariorgitiko rosé comes from family's private vineyards. Expect flavours and aromas of cherries and strawberries with hints of wild herbs and pepper.

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Mantinia - Messinia - Ilia - Lakonia The wines MANTINIA Amalia Brut Vintage 2015 Domaine Tselepos No winery in Mantinia has explored Moschofilero grape more than Domaine Tselepos, and with the Amalia Vintage, they've produced another textbook sparkling Moschofilero! Very dry, lively and zesty with a lovely aroma profile of brioche, rose, mineral and citrus, made with the same process as Champagne, is the product of a full 24 months on the lees. (P.D.O. Mantinia)

Oropedio 2017 Boutari Boutari, producer of this wonderfully elegant Moschofilero is determined to discover every dimension of the multifaceted variety. They present another Moschofilero 100%, the label Oropedio (meaning high plateau in Greek), made in stainless steel but with a short period in oak barrel for extra intensity and richness. (P.D.O. Mantinia)

Thea 2017 Semeli A premium Mantinia determined to expand beyond Moschofilero’s full potential! Single vineyard: fruit is sourced from a 25 years old vineyard in Zevgolatio mountain region (altitude: 750 meters). 5 months fine lees contact.

Result: ultra-ripe fruit character, great intensity, pure enjoyment! (P.D.O. Mantinia)

Mantinia 2018 Bosinakis Winery Textbook Moschofilero: crisp, ripe citrus trees fruit, rose notes and a racy character; so refreshing it can be consumed on its own, or makes a terrific partner to a wide range of dishes. The grapes are sourced from selected vineyards planted on Agiorgitika, Steno and Lithovounia sites (altitude:650 meters). (P.D.O. Mantinia)

Peplo 2018 George Skouras 33% Mavrofilero (Mantinia: 650m), 33% Agiorgitiko (Corinthia: 850m), 33% Syrah (Argolida: 600m). This is the varietal composition of Skouras’ new rosé label. A complex, firm, grippy and quite spicy rosé wine with flowers-ripeberry flavours and some tannic structure. (P.G.I. Peloponnese)

La vie en rose 2018 Palivou Estate Palivou family is exploring new ground with this single vineyard-100% Moschofilero-24hours skin contact rosé. Elegant and appealing, with the faintest blush of pink and great nose belying round entry and expanding flavour of roses, jasmine and citrus, with firm, acidy finish. (P.G.I. Peloponnese)

Tomi rosé 2018 Troupis Winery Troupis Winery, located in Mantinia, has great success with Moschofilero grape creating wines with distinct personality, such as this savoury rosé. Fresh, fruity with elegant roses perfume and good acidity is a superb wine for aperitif or summer parties. (P.G.I. Arkadia)

MESSINIA - ILIA - LAKONIA Fileri 2018 Nestor Wines Easy drinking and elegant white wine of vibrant pale yellow colour and fine citrus trees and pear nose. Lovely and fresh is perfect for everyday drinking.

(P.G.I. Trifilia)

Mercouri Estate 2016 Mercouri Estate This red is Mercouri Estate’s flagship wine. Refosco and Mavrodaphne blend (85% - 15%), it shows bold aromas, with hints of cherry, roasted nuts and tobacco. On the palate it is well-rounded, harmonious, and rich with a lingering finish. (P.G.I. Letrini)

Kidonitsa 2018 Theodorakakos Estate Taste this pretty smart wine and… the light of truth will shine upon the Kidonitsa grape’s abilities. Vibrant pale yellow colour leads to beautiful nose of citrus and apricots and hints of quince in the buttery aftertaste. (P.G.I. Lakonia)

Monemvasia - Malvasia 2012 Monemvasia Winery – Tsimbidis If you wondered what a Monemvasia-Malvasia, made from sun dried (10-12 days) Monemvasia, Kidonitsa, Assyrtiko and Asproudes grapes, tasted like, this spectacular wine would certainly give you an idea of the combination of richness and acidity. Exotic aromas of peaches, apricots next to roasted almonds and chocolate. Delicious with a pleasant citrus trees fruit finish that goes on and on. A finish without end. (P.D.O. Monemvasia – Malvasia)

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Achaia The wines

Asprolithi 2018 Oenoforos The Slopes of Egialia “one of the most interesting vinicultural regions in the world” (Stavroula Kourakou, honorary chairwoman of the O.I.V.) allow the Roditis grape to realize its full potential, making fine and zesty wines like this one. (P.D.O. Patras)

freshness and mouth-watering juiciness to balance the acidity. Wine’s delicious fruit and round flavour matches perfectly the summer and the Mediterranean cuisine. (P.G.I. Achaia)

Domain Mega Spileo red 2013 Cavino

A very attractive, racy Malagousia. Look for aromas of peaches and apricots on the nose with flavours of lemon drops and tropical fruit combined with a long flinty finish. This fine Malagousia captures the sun of Egialia. (P.G.I. Achaia)

Cultivated on the Slopes of Egialia the two indigenous grapes Mavrodaphni, Mavro Kalavritino (60% - 40%) realize their full potential, making plush and smooth wines, full of dark fruit flavours and smooth tannins, like this one.

Domaine Mega Spileo vineyard, located in the Agios Nikolaos plateau, upland Egialia and 800 meters altitude, can boast one of the choicest and most beautiful vineyard sites in Greece. (P.G.I. Achaia)

Coryphée 2018 Rira Vineyards

Gerontoklima Vertzami 2003 Antonopoulos Vineyards

100% Gewürztraminer grown in mountainous Rira vineyards in Egialia.

Ultraclean and bright, this gewurz shows good varietal flavours of citrus fruits, peaches and wildflowers. Its fine, and the acidity is wonderfully mouth– cleansing. (P.G.I. Peloponnese)

Vertzami is one of many unknown varieties of the Greek vineyard that dedicated winemakers - to the delight of wine aficionados - have managed to save from extinction. Spicy, smoky, vanilla-scented, with dense, ripe, chocolate-drenched cherry flavours Antonopoulos’s Vertzami always delivers great quality in just about any vintage. (P.G.I. Achaia)

Malagousia 2018 Kimtonis Winery

Petite Fleur 2018 Parparoussis Winery Thanassis Parparoussis vinifies the rare Sideritis grape to create this crisp and refreshing Provençal style rosé. Pale pink colour. A fresh, fragrant, dry rosé with flavours of cherries and herbs. Delicately fruity with lovely focus. The grapes are sourced from Achaia. (P.G.I. Achaia)

Mavro Kalavritino 2017 Tetramythos The cool climate of Slopes of Egialia gives this Mavro Kalavritino a wonderful

Mavrodaphne Grande Reserve 1979 Achaia Clauss This delightful Mavrodaphne of Partas’s (100% Mavrodaphne) is a gorgeous elixir with honeyed aromas and sweet memories of childhood. The aromas are classic Mavrodaphne’s, including prunes, figs, mocha and dark chocolate.

Sweet and full-flavoured, it is terrifically balanced by a seam of acidity.

Long, long finish. A terrific sweet wine with a Mediterranean heart. (P.D.O. Mavrodaphne of Patras)

20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN A BOTTLE

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EDEN DROP

Agiorgitiko Syrah Peloponnese PGI 2018

ENJOY RESPONSIBLY

One sip, one moment is enough to enjoy the unique taste and the rich aroma of our anniversary wine Eden Drop.

At Lidl we know that behind this very moment hides our everyday way of working for the past 20 years; collaborating with top Greek winemakers, who offer their passion and expertise to make every one of these last 20 years worth it.

P E L O P O N N E S E | O E N OTO U R I S M S TO P S

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Oenotourism stops - A visit to the wineries 62

Domaine Skouras

NEMEA Domaine Skouras 37°68'96.90" Ν 22°65'47.80" E The state of the art equipped unit stands out not only for its functionality, but also for the high level of aesthetics in the welcoming area. The well-designed tour guide us inside charming cellars before leading us to the beautiful wine tasting hall.

Info: 10th km of the Argos-Sterna road Μalandreni, Argos tel. +30 27510 23688 e-mail: info@skouras.gr www.skouras.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 15.30 SA 10.30 – 18.00

Lafazanis Winery 37°48'48.66" Ν 22°45'56.32" E This tasteful winery, one of the largest in this zone, is built at Ancient Kleones, a stone’s throw from the ruins of the ancient temple of Hercules. Through the guided tour, we will learn more on the region’s history, wine production and wine tasting secrets.

Info: Ancient Kleones, Nemea tel. +30 27460 31450 e-mail: winery@lafazanis.gr www.lafazanis.gr Open: THU – SA 09:00 – 16:00 by appointment visit@lafazanis.gr Semeli 37°52΄17.01" N 22°40΄50.37" E Impressive in size, architecture and design, Semeli winery is located on a beautiful spot at the altitude of 600m in Koutsi and affords stunning views of Nemea vineyards. The estate proposes tour & wine tastings, plus

Semeli

Palivou Estate

lunch at the cosy dining room and overnight accommodation at the gusethouses.

Organic Papaioannou Vineyrads 37°48'24.36" Ν 22°70'42.25" E

Info: Koutsi, Nemea tel. +30 27460 20360, 27460 20960 e-mail: info@semeliwines.gr www.semeliwines.gr Open daily: 10.00 – 16.00 SA - SU 11.00 – 17.00

Thanassis Papaioannou, the estate’s establisher, is one of the Greek wine great figures, listed among the pioneers in the “movement” of the small-scale wine producers in Greece. The winery visit includes a wine tasting in the family winery, which was recently renovated and can be found on the central road of Ancient Nemea.

Gaia Wines 37°51'22.16" Ν 22°40'12.00" Ε Gaia Wines’s creators installed their wineries in two excellent wine regions of Greece, Santorini (see p. 72) and Nemea. Their labels hide a simple yet ‘challenging’idea: delve into the limits of Greek varieties through cuttingedge technology and offer to wine lovers the best possible result.

Info: Koutsi, Nemea tel. + 30 27460 22057 e-mail: gaiawine@otenet.gr www.gaia-wines.gr Open: by appointment Palivou Estate 37°48'26.20" Ν 22°4141.39" E Giorgos Palivos decided in 1995 to turn the old traditional wine press of the family farm into a modern winery. So began the new, very dynamic era for this estate, with the active participation of the new generation that followed.

Info: Ancient Nemea tel. +30 27460 24190 e-mail: info@palivos.gr www.palivos.gr Open daily: Oct - Mar 09:00 – 17.00 Ap - Se: 10.00 - 18.00

Info: Ancient Nemea tel. +30 27460 23138 e-mail: info@papaioannouwines.gr www.papaioannouwines.gr Open daily: 09:00 – 17:00 Domaine Harlaftis 37°48'08.48 " Ν 22°38'00.36" E A modern building in the heart of the vineyard was created for the production of the estate’s Agiorgitiko wine. With a clear focus on red wine, the domaine disposes cellar with more than 500 oak barrels.

Info: Achladias, Nemea tel. +30 27460 24197 e-mail: wines@harlaftis.gr www.harlaftis.gr Open: by appointment Barafakas Winery 37°48'34.17 " Ν 22°39'40.77" E The third generation of these wine-makers continues the tradition which began some decades ago, and invites us to take the tour of their winery.

Info: Pindou 8, Nemea tel. +30 27460 22484 www.barafakawines.gr

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Tselepos Winery

Monemvasia Winery

MANTINIA

Info: Milia, Tripolis tel. + 30 2710 411477 www.boutari.gr

Tselepos Winery 37°25’45.56” Ν 22°29’21.73” E Elegant, functional, with the stunning mountains in the background and “planted” right at the heart of their 30 ha privately owned vineyard, the winery alludes to the architecture of the towers in mountainous Arcadia. The visit includes a walk to the vineyard, the production facilities and cellars, before arriving at the wine tasting hall.

Info: 14Ο km of the Tripoli - Kastri road Rizes, Arkadia tel. +30 2710 544440 e-mail: info@tselepos.gr www.tselepos.gr Open daily: by appointment Troupis Winery 37°34’43.93” N 22°23’28.46” E The winery is placed at the heart of the Mantinia vineyards, at an altitude of 700 meters, in the Fteri region. The expansion works have create a new vinification and reception area.

Info: Fteri, Mantinia tel. +30 2710 411435 e-mail: sales@troupiswinery.gr www. troupiswinery.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 15.00 by appointment Boutari/ Mantinia Winery 37°34’48.67” Ν 22°23’25.66” E Going back to the history of Mantinia wine, we will see the first label which circulated in 1930 from the Cambas Company. Since 1991 the management of Cambas 70 ha vineyard and winery has been undertaken by the Boutari Company.

Domaine Spiropoulos 37°37’56.60” N 22°23’09.04” E The splendid stone tower that rises above the modern winery reveals the Spiropoulos family’s relationship with wine since 1860.

With 50 ha vineyards in the Mantinia zone, they are among the most fervent supporters of organic cultivation in the Peloponnese.

Info: 15ο km of Tripoli-Artemisio road tel. + 30 27960 61400 e-mail: info@domainspiropoulos.com, www.domainspiropoulos.com Open: TUE – SA 09.00 – 15.00 Bosinakis Winery 37°29’02.01” Ν 22°27’12.45” E A purely family business with vineyards situated at the villages of Steno, Lithovounia and Agiorgitika in Arcadia, where the microclimate favours the cultivation of Moschofilero more than in any other part of the zone.

Info: Steno Manitnia τηλ: +30 2710 572767 e-mail: wines@bosinakis.gr www.bosinakis.gr LAKONIA Monemvasia Winery 36°42’25.00” Ν 22°56’48.91” E Monemvasia Winery's founder, oenologist George Tsimbidis, in collaboration with the Farm Schools of Athens and Thessaloniki, conducted research for the identification and re-cultivation of grapes from which the Malvasia wine was made. Today,

Nestor

the contemporary Malvasia wine from Monemvasia is a fact.

Info: Velies Monemvasia tel. + 30 27320 53096 e-mail: info@malvasiawines.gr www.malvasiawines.gr Open: by appointment Estate Theodorakakos 36°56’27.65” N 22°30’40.42" E George Theodorakakos was among the first wine-makers who decided to take part in the regeneration of wine around the region of Sparta. The estate keeps its doors open to visitors, for a guided tour in the vineyards, in the new winery and for a wine tasting.

Info: 17ο km. of the Sparta – Githio National Road, Dafni, Lakonia tel. +30 27310 36555 e-mail: info@estatetheodorakakos.gr www.estatetheodorakakos.gr Open daily: MESSINIA Nestor winery 37°04’07.35” N 21°41’51.09” E The huge winery lies north of the Bay of Navarino just a few kilometres away from the ancient palace of King Nestor. The elegant reception area with its splendid view is a true “window to the sky” at the centre of Mycenaean land, where viniculture has existed for more than 4,000 years, as proved by archaeological research.

Info: Pyrgos, Trifilia tel. + 30 27630 41073 e-mail: info@nestorwines.gr, www.nestorwines.gr Open daily: 9.00 – 16.00 SA – SU by appointment

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Mercouri Estate

ILIA Mercouri Estate 37°40’36.68” Ν 21°18’34.95” E The Merkouri Estate at Korakochori, Ilia is a true gem! A farm of unique beauty, overlooking the Ionian Sea. And with its 150 years of tradition in producing olive oil, wine and Corinthian raisin before that, is one of the most historic and the most beautiful wineries of Greece.

Info: Korakochori, Ilia tel. +30 26210 41601 e-mail: mercouri@otenet.gr www.mercouri.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 15.00 SU by appointment ACHAIA Rouvalis Winery 38°13'14.49" N 22°05'03.57" E Since its establishment in 1990, this winery figures among the pioneers in the rebirth of quality Greek wine. As its creator, oenologist Angelos Rouvalis, pursued the policy of collaborating with the entire zone, his contribution in the case of the Egialia viticulturists towards cultivating old local grapes was of decisive importance.

Info: Selinous, Egio tel. + 30 26910 29415 e-mail: info@rouvaliswinery.gr www.rouvaliswinery.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 16.00 SAT – SUN: by appointment Tetramythos 38°08'21.79" Ν 22°14'07.52" E The winery which is well equipped but also in harmony with the idyllic natural landscape can be found at the entry point for Ano Diakopto. Its proprietors will narrate their story as visitors are guided through the vinification and barrel ageing areas, before reaching the wine tasting hall, offering an amazing view over the Corinthian gulf.

Tetramythos

Info: 8th km on the Pounta – Kalavrita road Ano Diakopto, Achaia tel. + 30 26910 97500 e-mail: info@tetramythoswines.com www.tetramythoswines.com Open daily: 09.00 – 16.00 SAT – SUN: 10.00 – 16.00 Cavino – Winery & Distillery Egio 38°15'36.91" Ν 22°03'41.81" E A large-scale winery & distillery, one of the larger Greek exporters of bottled wine. In 1999, Cavino undertook and re-established the -then untended- vineyard of the Mega Spileo Monastery, spreading in upland Egialia and situated at an altitude of 800 meters, with a tremendous view overlooking the Vouraïkos gorge.

Info: Gefira Meganiti, Egio tel. + 30 26910 71555 e-mail: cavino@otenet.gr www.cavino.gr, www.megaspileo.gr Open: by appointment Rira Vineyards 38°17'36.69" Ν 22°00'34.04" E Since the old days, the name Rira refers to a region above Neratzies, Egio, high above the tourist resorts of Loggos – Selianitika, at the Egialia coastal zone. This is now the location of the Rira Vineyards. At the vineyard’s highest point, a building formed as a retreat/nest is offering an amazing spot for wine tasting, while enjoying a terrific view.

Info: N. Erineos, Egio tel. + 30 26910 20123 e-mail: info@rira.gr www.rira.gr Open: by appointment

Parparoussis Winery 38°16'46.07" Ν 21°45'07.72" E At the outskirts of Patras, in the Mpozaitika suburbs, the visitors can see the vineyard,

Cavino - Mega Spileo

the winery and distillery of the Parparoussis family. The garden with its trees, large plants and magnificent peacocks is an oasis of coolness and calm. Follows the tasting of their wines and famous distillates.

Info: 2 Parodos Achileos, Proastio Patras tel. + 30 2610 420334 e-mail: info@parparoussis.com www.parparoussis.com Open: by appointment Antonopoulos Vineyards 38°07'01.62" N 21°44'05.15" E The Antonopoulos Vineyards are the creation of Konstantinos Antonopoulos, a man who believed in the excellent quality potential of the Peloponnesian soil, particularly of mountainous and semi-mountainous Achaia.

A new, modern winery was built at Vassiliko in Achaia, where the company’s main vineyard is situated.

Info: Kidonies Vasiliko Farron, Vassiliko tel. + 30 26940 61447 e-mail: info@antonopoulosvineyards.com www.antonopoulosvineyards.com

Achaia Claus 38°11'48.88" Ν 21°46'10.83" E Achaia Clauss, located on the namesake hill, was founded in 1861 by the Bavarian Gustav Clauss and is the oldest winery in Greece. The sweet red wine that Clauss first produced in 1873 was given the name “Mavrodaphne” and became a Greek wine legend. The stone buildings, the large carved oak barrels with one century-old Mavrodaphne, the museum, but also the unique landscape with magnificent views attract thousands of visitors every year.

Info: Petroto, Achaia tel. +30 2610 368100 e-mail: 1861cwc@clauss.gr www.clauss.gr Open daily: 10.00 – 17.00 by appointment

WP PRESENTS AVANTIS WINERY

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Winetourism

Α wine trip to Avantis world Wine tour – Wine tasting – Wine & food pairing – Wine cosmetics Our history in Santorini began in 2012...

When enchanted by the unique Asyrtiko of Santorini and the enchanting microclimate of the volcanic island, we first vinified our Santorini wines.

After our three-year stay in Canava, the mansion of Messaria, this year is the time to open the doors of the new impressive Avantis Cellar Doors in Firostefano, just five minutes from the capital of the island.

We welcome our guests from around the world Open daily, from 11am to 9pm, to travel to our wine world through the following activities...

Guided tour, tasting, wine-eating, cooking and grape-therapy.

The wine-lovers visiting us experience the warm Greek hospitality combined with professionalism and knowledge in an absolutely Cycladic environment, gazing at the sea to the east and looking up the Fira hill to the West.

Avantis Cellar Doors Fira – Kontochori 84700 SANTORINI T: +30 2286023140 info@avantissantorini.com www.avantissantorini.com fb: Avantis Winery Santorini instagram: Avantis Santorini

... Take a tour of the cellar with the Afouras ... Taste the multi award-winning Avantis wines and discover beautiful aromas and flavors ... Enjoy tastings that combine flavors and local gastronomy ... Pamper yourself in Grape –Therapy and feel the antioxidant touch of the grape by the Therapist in our Zen place! ... Take part in Greek & Santorini cooking classes with traditional recipes from the Chef of our Restaurant Our team in Santorini is always ready to welcome you to experience a magical journey to the aromas and tastes of the Aegean, always with the priceless hospitality of Avantis Estate Winery!

Daily Open: Visiting hours: Monday - Sunday: 11am - 9pm Restaurant: 1pm - 8:30pm Reservations: 2286023140

GREEK ISL ANDS

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Aegean Sea islands

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Charming wines from Poseidon’s vineyards

Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.): Lemnos, Muscat of Lemnos, Samos, Santorini, Paros, Malvasia of Paros, Rhodes, Muscat of Rhodes Most popular Grape varieties White Muscat: 21,18% | Assyrtiko: 15,3% | Fokiano: 11% | Mantilaria: 9 % | Athiri: 8,9% | Muscat of Alexandria: 2,92%

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Must try: flomaria (local pasta), honey @Limnos Gkiouzlemedes (cheese pies with spearmint), zucchini flowers stuffed with cheese, sardines, lacress, fava (puree) from green beans @Lesvos Pitaroudia (tomato balls with onions), soupiorizo (a risotto with cuttlefish ink), lakani (beef sirloin with tomato sauce), melekounia (a type of brittle) @Rhodes Caper @Santorini Must buy: P.D.O. Chios ‘Throumpa’ olives, Chios Mastiha, Chios chewing gum, Chios Mastiha oil, Santorini fava (split pea puree), Santorini cherry tomatoes P.D.O. cheeses: Lesvos ladotyri, Lemnos kalathaki, Naxos graviera, Syros San Mihali, Mykonos Kopanisti P.G.I. Samos olive oil, Lesvos olive oil, Rhodes olive oil, Chios tangerines, Naxos potatoes Restaurants: The perfect food stop LEMNOS Mantella | local cusine @Sardes Martha | fresh fish & casseroles @Koutali Glaros | fish tavern @Myrina SAMOS Asterias | modern Greek cuisine @Pythagorio Marina | fresh fish & casseroles @Kokkari

5.413 Vineyards surface

ha

73 Wineries

169.014 Annual Wine Production

Facts LEMNOS Isiodos and Aristotle wrote about the Lemnia ampelos (Lemnos vine) which still exists nowadays. It is the red grape Limnio.

The large-berried Muscat of Alexandria, is the exclusive grape for the P.D.O. Lemnos and Muscat of Lemnos.

Lemnos is known for: • aromatic, light, dry white wines • elegant sweet white wines • light sparkling wines with an impressive nose.

SAMOS In 1934, the Union of Winemaking Cooperatives of Samos was founded. Having the exclusive rights to the production of the wines of Samos, the Cooperative managed to make the wines renowned, the most famous Greek wines in the world.

Since 2016, following the change in the relative legislation, the Union of Winemaking Cooperatives of Samos was renamed United Winemaking Agricultural Cooperative of Samos, with its members being each individual producer. The exclusivity revocation now allows for other winemakers to officially produce wine on the island.

The vineyards of Samos, beautiful as they are, are built on terraces which may reach altitudes of up to 900 meters. The majority of them are mountainous and semi mountainous.

The varietal that covers 97% of the Samos vineyards is the small-berried white Muscat (Muscat blanc à petits grains).

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In 1982, the indication P.D.O. Samos Grand Cru was granted to Samos for the wines coming from selected vineyards.

Samos is known for: • sweet white wines with incredible finesse and velvety taste • sweet aged wines with enormous structure and aromatic complexity.

RHODES Rhodes enjoys loads of sunshine, the most in Greece. At the same time, overabundant heat is avoided due to the fact that the sea breeze from May till September moderates high temperatures. Add to that significant rainfall (twice as much as in Attica) during a specific period and the result is an especially favorable climate for viticulture.

The vineyards in Rhodes, in small and dense allotments, stretch in two zones which differentiate in altitude. In the privileged higher zone, on the slopes of Attaviros, the vineyards are built on terraces.

The vines are 60-70 years old, since the island was never hit by phylloxera.

Rhodes was the first region in Greece to introduce local sparkling wine to the market.

SANTORINI The vineyards in Santorini are the oldest in Greece, with some of them possibly being 300 years old.

The soil is sandy, without any organic matter or clay and with a very low K (which is responsible for high acidities in the wines). Phylloxera is not fostered in this soil.

Basic characteristics of the microclimate: low rainfall, strong winds, warm and dry summer with night humidity.

The vineyards in Santorini comprise mostly of white varieties (80%). At least 90% of them are Assyrtiko.

The vineyards are pruned low and they are weaved into the shape of a wreath-like basket in which the grapes are protected from the winds and the hot sun.

The yields are extremely low: 3.000-3.500 kgs per ha!

The dry P.D.O. Santorini consists of not only Assyrtiko but also Athiri and Aidani, two other white varieties of the Aegean Sea vineyard.

The exquisite sweet wine Vinsanto is produced from Assyrtiko, as a backbone, and Aidani, as a participant.

The reds Mavrotragano, Voudomato and the whites Katsano, Gaidouria, are some of the unknown varieties of Santorini. They were rescued from extinction by the efforts of some winemakers.

Santorini is known for: • fresh whites with a crisp acidity • mature mineral whites • barrel-aged whites • sweet wines from sun-dried grapes.

PAROS and the rest of the CYCLADES ISLANDS In Paros, as in all of the Cyclades islands, the producers protect the vineyards from the strong winds by low pruning.

In the low, sandy flatlands, the deep-red Mantilaria is grown. This is the most popular red varietal in the Aegean.

Paros is one of the very few Greek P.D.O. zones that is capable of producing red and white wines, dry and sweet.

In Syros, Tinos and Mykonos, one can find wineries next to flatland vineyards reaching down to the coastlines or climbing up to the slopes shaped in the traditional terraces.

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LESVOS Vafios | exceptional cuisine & local recipes @Vafios, Molyvos Ermis | exceptional mezes @Mytilene Anemoessa | fresh fish @Skala Sikamnia RHODES Mavrikos | classic Greek cuisine @Lindos Petaladika | exceptional seafood mezes @Rhodes Alexis | fish tavern @Rhodes KOS Barbouni | excellent seafood @Kos Kalimnos by Pericles | fresh fish & casseroles @Mastihari SANTORINI Selene| local products & one of the best Greek restaurants @Pyrgos Koukoumavlos | quintessential cuisine & dramatic views of the Caldera @Fira Mylos | modern Greek cuisine @Firostefani Grace | gastronomic Greek neologisms @Grace Hotel, Imerovigli Kira-Rosa | classic Greek cuisine @Vourvoulos Psaraki | fresh fish @Vlihada MYKONOS Bill & Coo | fascinating haute Greek cuisine @Megali Ammos Jackie O’ Beach | fusion & modern international cuisine @Paradise Kensho | creative cuisine @Ornos Lady Finger | creative Greek cuisine @Hora Thea | Greek and Mediterranean cuisine @Hora PAROS Thea | exceptional Greek cuisine @Pounta Mantzourana | Greek and Mediterranean cuisine @Naoussa Thalassamou | Mediterranean cuisine @Aliki TINOS Thalassaki | creative locally inspired cooking @Ysternion Bay

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CRETE

Crete

Vineyards and Wines

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Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.): Archanes, Dafnes, Peza, Handakas-Candia, Malvasia Handakas-Candia, Sitia, Malvasia of Sitia

Most popular Grape varieties White: White Muscat: 21,18% | Assyrtiko: 15,3% | Fokiano: 11% | Mantilaria: 9 % | Athiri: 8,9% | Muscat of Alexandria: 2,92% Red: Liatiko: 25,8% | Kotsifali: 15,9% | Romeiko: 12,2% | Soultanina: 7,8% | Vilana: 7,2% | Vidiano: 6%

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Must try: Cretan diet is an important part of the island’s culture and it is based on local raw materials: virgin olive oil, wild greens, vegetables, legumes, meat, fish, seafood.

It is definitely worth trying traditional dishes, such as: choclioi (snails) in various recipes, kalitsounia (doughbased) with wild greens, artichokes with broad beans, pies from Sfakia, wine-cooked rooster, kreatotourta (meat pie), gamopilafo (rice), spaghetti with anthotyro (white cheese), ofto (oven-baked lamb), apaki (smoked pork), sausages villagestyle (horiatika), dakos (Cretan rusk with tomato, oregano, feta cheese and olive oil), staka (fresh-milk cream).

Must buy: Extra virgin olive oil P.D.O. Viannos Iraklio, North Mylopotamos Rethymno, Peza Iraklio, Arhanes Iraklio, Kolimvari Chania, Sitia Lasithi, Apokoronas Chania, Trapsano, Selino (Chania), Messara P.G.I. Chania Olives P.D.O. Throumpa from Ampadia Cheeses P.D.O. Chania Pixtogalo, Xinomizithra, Graviera, Sitia Xigalo P.D.O. Maleme Chania Oranges, Cretan rusk Tsikoudia (distillate), honey from thyme, dried herbs (malotira, melissohorto)

7.185 Vineyards surface

ha

45 Wineries

500.000 Annual Wine Production

ΗL

Facts In Vathipetro, south of the Arhanes zone, archaeological research revealed one of the oldest Minoan grape presses in Crete (16th century B.C.).

The dawn of a glorious period for Cretan wine came with the Malvasia wine, from the Venetian donimation until the middle of the 17th century.

Despite positioned south on the map, Crete is ideal for vine growing. This is why 1/5 of Greek wines are produced here.

The Cretan vineyard is among the most traditional vineyards in Europe.

The majority of the vineyards are located in the northern central part of the island, around Iraklio, in Arhanes, Peza and Dafnes. The rest of them are in Chania, on the lower slopes facing the White Mountains (or Lefka Ori) and in Sitia, in the eastern part of the island.

Local varietals are mainly grown in Crete. Some of them have been rescued from extinction and surprise us with the dynamic and quality wines they produce.

Vidiano is a white Cretan variety, considered by Greek and foreign wine lovers to be “up-and-coming” and “a hidden treasure”.

Romeiko is the oldest red grape grown in Chania. With a few anthocyanins, high alcoholic potential and low acidity, it produces Marouva, which is a Sherry-like traditional Cretan wine.

Indications attesting to the quality of the wines were generously legislated for the island: 7 Origin Designations and 6 Geographical Indications.

THE IONIAN SEA ISL ANDS

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The Ionian Sea islands 69

Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.) Robola of Cephalonia (1982), white dry | Muscat of Cephalonia (1971), white sweet | Mavrodaphne of Cephalonia (1971), red sweet Protected Geographical Indication (P.G.I.) Slopes of Enos, Metaxata, Mantzavinata, Zakynthos, Lefkada, Corfu, Halikouna Traditional Appellation Verdea Grape varieties White: Robola, white Muscat, Tsaousi, Goustolidi, Moshatella, Skiadopoulo, Pavlos, Savvatiano, Gileri, Vardea, Kakotrigis, white Petrokorinthi Reddish: Roditis Red: Mavrodaphne, Vertzami, Avgoustiatis, Katsakoulias, Skilopnihtis, Thiniatiko, CS, Merlot

FIND OUT MORE Our top picks of restaurants in Greek Islands www.wineplus.gr

Taste it > love it > shop it > share it Must try: Noumpoulo (cured meat), tsitsimpira (ginger beer – refreshment) @Corfu Mantoles (almonds roasted with sugar), comfeto (sweet quince paste) @Cephalonia Mantolato (nougat) @Zakynthos Must buy: Extra virgin olive oil P.D.O. Cephalonia, Zakynthos, Agios Mattheos (St. Matthew) Corfu P.D.O. kumquat from Corfu, raisins from Zakynthos

2.652 Vineyards surface

ha

24 Wineries

92.703 Annual Wine Production

ΗL

Facts In 1992, the ‘Verdea Traditional Appellation Zakynthos’ was approved. This is a white wine whose name derives from the word verde (green) and it, quite possibly, implies that during its production the grapes which were used were somewhat unripe in order to increase the low acidity owed to the high maturation.

The vineyards in Cephalonia, about 2/3 of them, are found on mountainous and semi mountainous areas, on limestone soils, especially poor in organic matter.

The Robola zone is on the north and central part of the island. The vineyards occupy an area of 300 ha and climb high up to 800 meters on the slopes of Mount Enos.

Robola used to be called Vino di Sasso by the Venetians, which means “the wine of the stone”. The vine growers were forced to dig into rocks, stuff the holes with ground and plant the vines in there.

The wines in Lefkada are produced mainly from the intensely red grape Vertzami and the white Vardea.

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AEGEAN ISL ANDS | THE WINES

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Aegean Islands The wines Aroma of Lemnos 2018 Limnos Wines If you love the rose perfumed style of Muscat of Alexandria, snap this up.

Terrific and refreshing white, a real fruit bomb with lovely acidity. A great success of Lemnos Agricultural Coop. (P.D.O. Lemnos)

Moscato d’ Ifestia 2017 Domaine Chatzigeorgiou - Lemnos This semi-sparkling Muscat of Alexandria wine is proof that you don't need big alcohol for big taste. Moscato d’ Ifestia weighs in at just 5% alcohol, and yet it has exquisite flavour. Ripe peaches and roses: the aromas intrigue us.

Anthemis Samos Coop Visit the Samos vineyards and gaze up at the hill where the old White Muscat vines grow. It is an incredible sight and the wines that come from there are even better. Like lip-smacking delicious Anthemis, a pure expression of Greek sweet wines, subject to 5 years ageing in oak casks. Commune with Dionysus when you drink this honeyed elixir! (P.D.O. Samos)

Velvet Cair Rhodes is famous for top quality sparkling wines and Velvet is a toasty, creamy beauty with lots of apricot and brioche notes. The blend: Athiri and Chardonnay. Perfect with all those spicy nibbles on the holiday table, as well as oysters and shellfish. (P.D.O. Rhodes)

Sparkling Santo Brut Santo Wines A sparking Assyrtiko! Pretty smart, delightfully dry and mature, fruity with layers of mineral notes and a core of tangy acid, it is made in the traditional style (method champenoise). A beautifully zesty, characterful aperitif from the fashionable Santorini Island.

Assyrtiko 2018 Boutari The first P.D.O. Assyrtiko that was bottled reveals rich mineral and flower aromas, as well as a citrus-flavoured character. Somehow it combines fabulously fruit, honey and spice flavours with a savoury minerality, leading to a dry finish. (P.D.O. Santorini)

Santorini 2017 Canava Chryssou Tselepos 100% Assyrtiko fermented in stainless steel, it shows the purity of the grape in the form of sun-ripened citrus fruit. It also delivers that characteristic touch

of salinity that you often get with Assyrtiko planted on Santorini. There’s tonic energy and minerality and brightness in the mouth thanks to the wine’s balanced acidity and its textural richness. (P.D.O. Santorini)

Santorini Familia 2018 Hatzidakis Winery Vibrant and youthful, this beauty is pure pleasure with fresh citrus aromas bursting from the glass, layers of mineral notes and a core of tangy acid, leading to a dry finish. Brilliant now, it should evolve nicely over the next 5 years. (P.D.O. Santorini)

Assyrtiko by Gaia Wild Ferment 2018 Gaia Wines A pure expression of Assyrtiko that is fermented by wild yeasts strains in small inox tanks and oak and acacia barrels. This is a truly outstanding wine that boasts impeccable intensity and elegance. It possesses great intensity, good acidity to bring it into balance, citrus and smoke in the mix too. You could drink it now or hold it 3 years or more. (P.D.O. Santorini)

Pyritis 2016 Artemis Karamolegos Winery Dynamite from very old Assyrtiko vines in Pyrgos and Megalochori vineyards, made in the classic style. The wine possesses great intensity, good acidity to bring it into balance, citrus and minerals in the mix too. (P.D.O. Santorini)

Assyrtiko 2018 Gavalas wines

This shiny Santorini will give you an idea of the combination of aromatic richness and acidity. Exotic aromas of peaches, apricots and stones minerality.

Delicious with a pleasant citrus trees fruit finish that goes on and on. A finish without end. (P.D.O. Santorini)

Dolphins Santorini 2018 Avantis Estate This Santorini reveals flower aromas, as well as a citrus-flavoured character.

It also delivers that characteristic touch of salinity that you often get with Assyrtiko planted on Santorini. There’s tonic energy and minerality in the mouth thanks to the wine’s balanced acidity and its textural richness. (P.D.O. Santorini)

Therassea 2018 Mikri Thira A pure expression of Assyrtiko that grows in the island of Therassea, face to Santorini volcano. The wine possesses great intensity, good acidity to bring it into balance, citrus and minerality in the mix too. A delightful and vibrant

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Santorini that shows its elegance and pedigree with confidence. Mikri Thira is the brand new estate of V. Gerovassiliou and V. Tsaktsarlis. (P.D.O. Santorini)

Mavrotragano 2017 Domaine Sigalas Mavrotragano is one of many unknown varieties of the Santorini's vineyard that dedicated winemakers have managed to save from extinction. Spicy, smoky, vanilla-scented, with dense, ripe, chocolate-drenched cherry flavours Sigalas’s Mavrotragano always delivers great quality in just about any vintage.

(P.G.I. Cyclades)

Vinsanto 20 years Estate Argyros The delightful Vinsanto is sun-dried Assyrtiko (80%, Aidani (10%) and Athiri (10%). This oak-fermented dessert wine opens with a bright golden-orange colour and very distinctive aromas of orange peel, honey and caramel. It is a thick, sugar-rich expression that peels off with charming layers of candied fruit on the finish. (P.D.O. Santorini)

hints of green pepper spice in the buttery aftertaste. This full-bodied Vidiano is shiny, like a summer day in Crete after a dip into Aegean sea. Douloufakis winery offers an astonishing barrel-fermented version of the variety, full of apricot vinosity and fleshy palate. (P.G.I. Crete)

Vera Rosa 2018 Strataridakis Estate This rosé is an alluring bright pink colour made with Kotsifali and Syrah grapes (50% - 50%). There is a strong, rosy and cherry aroma and a lovely acidity that makes it a delight to drink in the warm summer months. It will pair with white fish, chicken and vegetarian dishes. (P.G.I. Crete)

Kotsifali 2017 Lyrarakis Wines A medium-to-full-bodied wine from Alagni area in Central Crete and the local red grape Kotsifali. Red fruits with an elegant mouthfeel and a piquant aftertaste are the characteristics of the wine which is produced from vineyards situated at 500m altitude. (P.G.I. Crete)

Paros 2018 Moraitis Estate

Diamantopetra red 2015 Diamantakis Winery

If you wondered what a wine from Monemvasia, the white grape of the Aegean islands, tasted like, this spectacular wine (from Paros) would certainly give you an idea. Vineyards facing the Aegean Sea + 20% barrique fermentation + 6 months fine lees contact. Result: hints of oak and an undertow of fruits. A good mouth-watering attack wakes up the palate and gets it ready for food.

(P.D.O. Paros)

Fruit for this red Syrah-Mantilaria (70%-30%) blend comes from their southeastfacing vineyard and ferments at slowly increasing temperatures, allowing the wine to develop texture and complexity. You will taste ripe cherry, cassis and hints of tobacco with a veil of olive tapenade, that demonstrates the French winemaking techniques they've employed here. (P.G.I. Crete)

Fantaxometocho 2018 Boutari A stylish and very classy wine from Crete, it is based on Chardonnay but also contains Malvasia Aromatica and Vilana. Vibrant pale yellow colour leads to impressive nose of white flowers, green apple and pear. Full-bodied, wellbalanced by a fresh seam of acidity. The wine rests 3 months in barriques with lees contact for extra intensity and richness. (P.G.I. Iraklion)

Rizitis white 2018 Dourakis Winery The indigenous Vilana grape is the source material for this pretty white. Dense, fine and well-balanced by a fresh seam of acidity. Lovely fruity aromas lead to exotic spice nuances, and a long finish. P.S.: Rizitis is the name given to Cretans who lived in the mountains and fought to protect the villages on the beautiful island of Crete.

Aspros Lagos Vidiano 2018 (White hare) Douloufakis Winery Vibrant pale yellow colour leads to beautiful nose of citrus and peaches and

Robola Barrel 2017 Orealios Gi Robola grapes from the upland vineyards of Omala. Grape must left to ferment in small inox tanks and in new French oak barriques. The island Coop, producer of this wonderfully elegant, crispy, mineral wine, is determined to discover every dimension of the variety. (P.D.O. Robola)

Robola of Cephalonia 2018 Gentilini Textbook Robola: crystalline, no shortage of fruit and hints of minerals.

Complete, confident and zesty. Crisp and clean, is a superior example of Robola’s wonderful purity and typicity. Perfect for your favourite grilled fishes.

(P.D.O. Robola)

Orgion 2016 Sclavos wines This dry Mavrodaphne is a dark, almost inky wine, with generous, layered aromas of red fruit, spiced with hints of liquorice and wild mint. In the mouth it is rich, complex and impressive, with soft, round tannins and an endless aftertaste. A true taste of Chephalonia in a glass! (P.G.I. Slopes of Enos)

G R E E K I S L A N D S | O E N OTO U R I S M S TO P S

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Greek Islands - A visit to the wineries 72

UWC Samos

LEMNOS Limnos wines 39°52'28.63" N 22°03'36.85" E Operating under the brand name ‘Limnos Wines’ and having a particularly large network of active vine growers-members, the Agricultural and Vinicultural Cooperative of Limnos continues the ancient tradition of the island in the production of fine wine.

Info: Myrina, Lemnos Λήμνου tel. +30 22540 22212 e-mail: info@limnoswines.gr www.limnoswines.gr Estate Chatzigeorgiou Lemnos 39°56'21.41" N 25°14'05.31" E This modern and well organized winery reflects the care Chatzigeorgiou family gives to its wines, showcasing the Muscat of Alexandria potential in dry, sweet, semisparkling and sparkling version.

Info: Karpasi, Lemnos tel. +30 22540 31082 e-mail: chatzigeorgiou_domaine@hotmail.com www.chatzigeorgioulimnos.gr Open to visitors SAMOS U n i t e d Wi n e m a k i n g A g r i c u l t u r a l Cooperative of Samos (UWC SAMOS) 37°44'59.93" N 26°25'41.82" E A power ful, dynamic and absolutely successful cooperation, it vinifies around 7.000 tons of the White Muscat in two wineries. Taking advantage of the tourist traffic of the island in order to promote the wines, the Museum of Samos Wine was created.

Santo Wines

Info: Malagari, Samos τηλ. 22730 85111 tel. +30 22730 85111 www.samoswine.gr Museum Open daily: 10.00 – 17.30 RHODES Cair Rhodes 36°24'53.32" N 28°12'43.07" E The most famous winery on the island.

Info: 2ο km. Rhodes - Lindos tel. +30 22410 68770-3 e-mail: info@cair.gr www.cair.gr SANTORINI Boutari / Santorini Winery 36°22'13.68" N 25°25'29.87" E The Boutari Winery has played a leading role in the viticultural development of the island.

Open to the public, it offers its visitors a complete guided tour filled with the magical aura of Santorini.

Info: Megalochori, Santorini tel. +30 22860 81011 e-mail: santorini.winery@boutari.gr www.boutari.gr Open daily: 10.00 – 18.00 Gavalas Winery 36°22'31.39" N 25°25'49.47" E Gavalas family has been engaged in the vinification since the end of the 19th century.

A guided tour in their canava, around the areas of production, ageing and bottling is rounded off by the tasting in the reception hall.

Boutari / Crete

Info: Megalochori, Santorini tel. +30 22860 82552 e-mail: info@gavalaswines.gr www.gavalaswines.gr Open daily: 10.00 – 20.00 Santo Wines 36°23'15.12" N 25°26'12.28" E The location of the Union of Santorini Cooperatives’ winery is quite privileged as it has a view of the volcano. The tour includes acquaintance with the winemaking facilities, cellars and ends at the balcony above the Caldera for a wine tasting.

Info: Pyrgos, Santorini tel. +30 22860 22596 e-mail: info@ santowines.gr www.santowines.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 22.30 by online booking Hatzidakis Winery 36°22'16.40" N 25°26'21.33" E In 1999, oenologist Haridimos Hatzidakis established the Hatzidakis Winery in Pyrgos.

Today, his children continue the winery’s history, making their wines from their organically cultivated vineyards (10 ha).

Their new winery awaits the visitors for a tour in the vineyards, in the winery and for a wine tasting.

Info: Pyrgos, Santorini Tel. +30 698 110 7180 e-mail: hatzidakishospitality@gmail.com www.hatzidakiswines.gr Open: by appointment

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Artemis Karamolegos Winery 36°23'17.67" N 25°27'48.21" E

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The winery made a dynamic entry in contemporary winemaking in 2004, when Artemis Karamolegos invested in the production facility, the privately owned vineyards and the oenotourism.

Info: Exo Gonia, Santorini tel. +30 22860 33395 e-mail: winetasting@artemiskaramolegos-winery.com

www.artemiskaramolegos-winery.com Open daily: 12:00 - 18:00 Argyros Estate 36°22'57.51" N 25°27'53.66" E

The brand new, state of the art equipped Argyros winery stands out not only for its size and functionality, but also for the high level of modern aesthetics. Standing in the center of the estate’s main vineyard proves the great development for the family that has been producing wine since 1903.

Info: Mesa Gonia, Episkopi, Santorini tel. +30 22860 31489 e-mail: info@estateargyros.com www.estate-argyros.com Open by on line reservations Gaia Wines 36°23'28.29" N 25°29'08.69" E Situated on a beach, on the east side of the island, the industrial stone winery used to be a tomato factory until the 1970s. Today, the hightech equipment guarantee contemporary winemaking and ideal conditions for high quality vinegar production.

Info: Monolithos, Santorini tel. +30 22860 34186 e-mail: info@gaiawines.gr gaia-wines.gr Open daily: May – October Avantis Cellar Doors 36°23'54.73" N 25°26'53.21" E Enchanted from the Assyrtiko and Santorini’s terroir, Apostolos Mountrichas from Avantis Estate in Evia (see p. 49) launched their P.D.O. Santorini wines. They welcome visitors at ‘Avantis Cellar' at Fira and through wine tours - tastings - lunch and wine spa cosmetics provide a unique winetourism experience.

Info: Kontochori, Fira, Santorini e-mail: info@avantisestste.gr www.avantisestate.gr Open daily: 11.00 – 21.00 Domaine Sigalas 36°28'17.20" N 25°23'39.04" E Domaine Sigalas vinify their wines and welcome visitors in their winery, at Baxedes

area of Oia. The scenic location of the winery affords the opportunity to all guests to enjoy the colours of the setting sun as it descends on the vineyard.

Info: Baxedes, Oia, Santorini tel. +30 22860 71644 e-mail: info@ sigalas-wine.com www.sigalas-wine.com Open daily CRETE Dourakis Winery 35°20'57.99" N 24°12'10. 98" E 1988 was the year that oenologist Andreas Dourakis decided to utilize its family vineyard at the mountainous village Alikambos. He led it through a steady rising course and in its new winery, inside the privately-owned vineyard.

Info: Alikambos, Chania tel. +30 28250 51761 e-mail: info@ dourakiswinery.gr www.dourakiswinery.gr Open by online appointments Boutari / Crete Winery 35°16'31.26" N 23°11'34.99" E In the early 90’s, the Boutari company set up vineyards at Ktima Fantaxometoho using local varieties, some of which were threatened with extinction, as well as some foreign varieties. Visitors are able to enjoy the view of this vineyard from the impressive reception hall of the winery.

Info: Skalani, Heraklion Tel. +30 2810 731617 e-mail: info@boutari.gr www.boutari.gr Open daily: 09.00 – 17.00 by appointment Lyrarakis Wines 35°11'05.68" N 25°12'29.62" E Lyrarakis Wines is a family winery, established in 1966. During these five decades of continuous evolution, the family has devoted itself to the revival of indigenous, almost extinct, rare grape varieties of Crete like Dafni, Plyto, Melissaki and others.

Info: Alagni, Heraklion tel. +30 2810 336648, 2810 284614 e-mail: visit@lyrarakis.com www.lyrarakis.com Open by online appointments Douloufakis Winery 35°12'53.54" N 25°02'58.18" E The tradition and history of Douloufakis family in wine production begins in 1930.

Nikolas Douloufakis took over the family winery and proceeded to the renewal of the premises and the production of modern style

wines from his own vineyards in Dafnes.

Info: Dafnes, Heraklion tel. +30 2810 792017 e-mail: wines@cretanwines.gr www.cretanwines.gr Open daily: 10.00-15.30 by appointment Diamantakis Winery 35°12'43.18" N 24°59'33.81" E A modern winery located southwest of the city of Heraklion. Their vineyards are cultivated according to the principles of Integrated Management System.

Info: Kato Assites, Heraklion tel. +30 6949 198350 e-mail: info@ diamantakiswines.gr www. diamantakiswines.gr Open daily: 09.00-16.00 by appointment Stratadirakis Winery 35°02'35.11" N 24°14'23.63" E This is a family-owned winery in South Crete.

The private-owned vineyard, mainly vines of the Holy Apostles Sinai monastery, is located at the foot of Asterousia Mountains. The newbuilt winery combines the tradition with the technological achievement.

Info: Agioi Apostoloi, Kasteliana, Heraklion tel. +30 6977 805355, 28910 71275 e-mail: info@ strataridakis.gr www.strataridakis.gr Open to visitors IONIAN ISLANDS Orealios Gaea 38°09'46.12" Ν 20°35'25.13" E The Producers' Cooperative of Robola Cephalonia winery proposes an interesting guided tour and a comfortable salle for tasting.

Info: Omala, Cephalonia tel. +30 26710 86301 e-mail: info@orealios.gr www.orealios.gr Open daily: 07.00 – 20.00 Sclavos wines 38°12'07.80" Ν 20°26'13.13" E Evryviadis Sklavos, persistent and effective, was one of the first in Greece to apply biodynamic cultivation in his entire vineyard.

He was also one of the first to bring the excellent dry version of the Mavrodaphne to our attention.

Info: Lixouri, Cephalonia tel. +30 26710 91930 e-mail: sclwines@otenet.gr

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