Wines produced in the Koutsi region of Corinthia might be lesser known than their continental counterparts, but that doesn't make them any less delicious — or interesting.
Greece may be best known for its food, history, art and culture — and, of course, its stunning beaches and islands. But the country also produces another product of note: wine.
While Greek wines may be lesser known than their regional counterparts, the nation’s indigenous grapes and unique terroir, pictured above, conspire to create one of the most exciting wine-making countries in the world. Those who want to sample the high-quality reds, whites and rosés of Greece have many regions to choose from — as well as options such as Ktima Roussos, Assyrtiko and Reserve List Αλς Assyrtiko Extreme Terroir, aboard Evrima — but for the serious wine-loving traveler, a visit to Peloponnese is a must. This area is replete with ancient wonders, dramatic landscapes and incredible, award-winning wines.
The History of Wine in Peloponnese
Locals have been producing wine here for centuries, thanks to a rugged landscape of valleys, mountains and plateaus, which are well-suited to premium viticulture. While winegrowing in this region dates back to at least the 5th century, B.C., with wine being a major part of Greek mythology, the modern Peloponnese wine industry began to flourish after the end of World War II. Native grape varieties include Mavrodaphne, Agiorgitiko and Moschofilero, which produce everything from robust reds to crisp whites, and there are 17 regional appellations in the Peloponnese, along with the seven PDO-level appellations. It’s an incredibly dynamic region, where savoring the local vino is an integral part of the culture.
While winegrowing in this region dates back to at least the 5th century, B.C., with wine being a major part of Greek mythology, the modern Peloponnese wine industry began to flourish after the end of World War II.
Koutsi and Nemea: Top Greek Wine Destinations
Said to be Greece’s most important red-wine appellation, the village of Nemea is home to dozens of wineries that rival those of Italy and France. In Nemea, most local wines come from the native Agiorgitiko grape, a fragrant variety that produces a wide range of wines, including both full-bodied reds and light rosés. And in next-door Koutsi, oenophiles and casual wine drinkers alike get to appreciate the vast viticultural landscape and gorgeous natural beauty. With hills rolling in every direction and fragrant vineyards as far as the eye can see, winery-hopping around Nemea and Koutsi is a highly enjoyable activity that draws visitors from around the globe.
Must-Visit Local Wineries in Peloponnese
Dive into the world of Greek wine at Semeli Estate, where high-profile winemakers have been producing internationally recognized wines since the 1970s. The vineyards located on the gorgeous, privately-owned hillside span 30 hectares, while another 90 hectares are grown by affiliated local growers. Learn about the history of winemaking in Greece and the importance of honoring the local land — and, of course, taste some truly excellent wines — during one of the informative, entertaining wine tours, which include both group and private options.
Gaia Wines focuses on reds and retsina. Tours are quite the experience, where visitors get to explore the vineyard where their wines are produced (Gaia specializes in AOC unfiltered wines, and its signature vintage is the dry white Thalassitis) and enjoy an up-close-and-personal look at the production facilities, bottling and aging areas.
Established in 1870, Domaine Spiropoulos is owned by the Spiropoulos family. This highly regarded winery has been receiving medals for its organically grown wines since 1993. The grapes have been certified for organic cultivation by DIO, which certifies organic produce in Greece. Some wines to try at Domaine Spiropoulos include Moschofilero, Agiorgitiko and Syrah. A visit here is a true feast for the senses.
Greece may be best known for its food, history, art and culture — and, of course, its stunning beaches and islands. But the country also produces another product of note: wine.
While Greek wines may be lesser known than their regional counterparts, the nation’s indigenous grapes and unique terroir, pictured above, conspire to create one of the most exciting wine-making countries in the world. Those who want to sample the high-quality reds, whites and rosés of Greece have many regions to choose from — as well as options such as Ktima Roussos, Assyrtiko and Reserve List Αλς Assyrtiko Extreme Terroir, aboard Evrima — but for the serious wine-loving traveler, a visit to Peloponnese is a must. This area is replete with ancient wonders, dramatic landscapes and incredible, award-winning wines.
The History of Wine in Peloponnese
Locals have been producing wine here for centuries, thanks to a rugged landscape of valleys, mountains and plateaus, which are well-suited to premium viticulture. While winegrowing in this region dates back to at least the 5th century, B.C., with wine being a major part of Greek mythology, the modern Peloponnese wine industry began to flourish after the end of World War II. Native grape varieties include Mavrodaphne, Agiorgitiko and Moschofilero, which produce everything from robust reds to crisp whites, and there are 17 regional appellations in the Peloponnese, along with the seven PDO-level appellations. It’s an incredibly dynamic region, where savoring the local vino is an integral part of the culture.
While winegrowing in this region dates back to at least the 5th century, B.C., with wine being a major part of Greek mythology, the modern Peloponnese wine industry began to flourish after the end of World War II.
Koutsi and Nemea: Top Greek Wine Destinations
Said to be Greece’s most important red-wine appellation, the village of Nemea is home to dozens of wineries that rival those of Italy and France. In Nemea, most local wines come from the native Agiorgitiko grape, a fragrant variety that produces a wide range of wines, including both full-bodied reds and light rosés. And in next-door Koutsi, oenophiles and casual wine drinkers alike get to appreciate the vast viticultural landscape and gorgeous natural beauty. With hills rolling in every direction and fragrant vineyards as far as the eye can see, winery-hopping around Nemea and Koutsi is a highly enjoyable activity that draws visitors from around the globe.
Must-Visit Local Wineries in Peloponnese
Dive into the world of Greek wine at Semeli Estate, where high-profile winemakers have been producing internationally recognized wines since the 1970s. The vineyards located on the gorgeous, privately-owned hillside span 30 hectares, while another 90 hectares are grown by affiliated local growers. Learn about the history of winemaking in Greece and the importance of honoring the local land — and, of course, taste some truly excellent wines — during one of the informative, entertaining wine tours, which include both group and private options.
Gaia Wines focuses on reds and retsina. Tours are quite the experience, where visitors get to explore the vineyard where their wines are produced (Gaia specializes in AOC unfiltered wines, and its signature vintage is the dry white Thalassitis) and enjoy an up-close-and-personal look at the production facilities, bottling and aging areas.
Established in 1870, Domaine Spiropoulos is owned by the Spiropoulos family. This highly regarded winery has been receiving medals for its organically grown wines since 1993. The grapes have been certified for organic cultivation by DIO, which certifies organic produce in Greece. Some wines to try at Domaine Spiropoulos include Moschofilero, Agiorgitiko and Syrah. A visit here is a true feast for the senses.