A Guide To Greece's Wineries And Vineyards You Can Visit

Greece may not be considered a major destination in wine tourism, but it sure has plenty of options to offer any wine lover willing to step off the beaten track. With a wine tradition going back to antiquity, Greece should definitely be on your radar when it comes to wine. Here is a guide to the country’s wineries worth a visit. Dionysus would definitely be proud.

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Papagiannakos Winery

Family-owned Papagiannakos Winery in Markopoulos, near Athens, is located in an area with a rich wine tradition. Reflecting the ecological sensitivities of the winemaker, it is the first bioclimactic winery in Greece. After focusing first on the Savatiano varietal, the winery now concentrates on the Malagousia varietal. For the red grapes, Papagiannakos works with the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot varieties.

Semeli was founded in 1979 in the wine region of Koutsi, in Nemea, Peloponnese. This impressive undertaking boasts a modern design and architecture. Set in a beautiful surrounding with quick access to neighboring cultural treasures and monuments, it is a winery any wine lover or anybody looking to escape for a few days will surely enjoy. Indeed, the estate includes eight discreetly luxurious guest suites, offering breathtaking views to visitors.

Domaine Papantonis

Brother and sister Kallie and Antonis Papantonis planted their first vines at Malandreni, Nemea in 1979. Specialized mainly in local Agiorgitiko and Rhoditis grape varieties and in the world-renowned Chardonnay, the pair has persevered to build a winery that excels in the local market. In 2005, the business presented a subtle and elegant dry white wine made from both the local variety Rhoditis (65%) and Chardonnay (35%), showcasing their mastery of the craft.

Lyrarakis winery

Located in Crete, Lyrarakis Winery was established in 1966 and considered as one of the pioneers in the wine industry in Crete as it fiercely promoted Cretan grape varieties such as Dafni and Plyto. Producing about 17 different wines, including Vilana, Dafni, Vidiano and Kotsifali, the winery is located in a charming environment, surrounded by the Lassithi mountains. Ideal for the layman, a visit to Lyrarakis is surely a great introduction to the world of wine.

Kir Yianni Winery

A little bit outside Thessaloniki, the Kir Yianni Winery, owned by Boutaris is an excellent example of the local wine tradition. It is the region where the Xinomavro variety grows. The winery works with other varietals as well and specializes in combining technology with tradition to produce refined Greek wines.

Alpha Estate Winery

Alpha Estate winery is located in the northwest part of Greece, in Amyndeon near Florina. Founded in 1997 by the duo of viticulturist Makis Mavridis and chemist-oenologist Angelos Iatridis, the facility is one of the most modern vineyards of Greece. With a wide use of grape varieties, including Malagousia, Mavrodafne, Syrah, Negro Amaro, and Barbera among others, their wines are certainly intriguing and worth trying. Be prepared for a truly special experience.

Domaine Sigalas

On the vast plain of Oia in Santorini, the winery of Domaine Sigalas has been producing wine made from the most iconic grape variety of the island Santorini – Assyrtiko – as well as the Aidani, Athiri, Mandilaria and the Mavrotragano. With a clear passion for their products and the region, a wine tasting session at Domaine Sigalas turns into a full gastronomic experience where you get to taste quality wines acclaimed both in Greece and abroad.

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