Greece 2

Greece has arguably one of the longest wine histories in the world as wine has always been an integral part of Greek culture since antiquity. Greece might not be the first country to produce wine, but what can be attributed to Ancient Greece is the development of a culture encompassing all aspects of wine: vine growing, production, legislation, trading and, of course, the art of consuming wine. Mountainous and low foothills are the most common terrors in Greece, with a hot and dry climate. The Greek areas producing wines that carry a protected designation of origin (PDO wines) label are situated in semi-mountainous and mountainous areas where the vineyards are planted on the lower plains in deep alluvial soil. There are vines planted on the higher slopes, but the soil is often shallow and poor. The climate of Greece is Mediterranean which moderates’ temperatures making viticulture viable. Characteristic examples of vineyards in mountainous areas are those of Amynteo, Zitsa and Metsovo, and Achaia.

Key grape varieties

Assyrtiko is one of these rare white grape varieties that can grow on hot and dry climatic conditions, while at the same keeping the high alcohol in perfect balance by its crisp acidity. It is more of a textural variety, emphasizing extract, body and structure, rather than an aromatic grape. Assyrtiko originates from PDO Santorini, where it makes lean, mineral and very concentrated whites. However, it has been planted to most Greek wine regions.

Xinomavro comes from the words xino (sour) and mavro (black), although the skin of its berries does not possess any particularly deep colour. Xinomavro wines are usually released on the market when they are at least two years of age, having spent a significant amount of that time in oak and bottle. These wines tend improve with ageing and are elegant, with firm tannins, tight structure and bright acidity. The Xinomavro character is complex with aromas of red fruits, flowers, olives, dried prunes, tobacco and nuts, while wood-aging brings subtle hints of spice.