Best Wines in the Peloponnese Region

Wine production in Greece dates back at least 4000 years; the oldest archaeological finding of grapes was in the Peloponnese region, especially in Nemea. The area is known from Greek Mythology, where Hercules killed the Lion. So, the best wines in the Peloponnese region can be found by tourists who visit Greece. Wine was always a part of Greek tradition, from ancient times to the present day. According to mythology, the Atreides were particularly partial to Philasian wine (from the plain of Philius, the ancient name of Nemea). Today, Nemea is the biggest vineyard in Greece, producing some of the best wines in the Peloponnese region. The types of wine include Agiorgitiko, Moschofilero, Mavrodaphne, and Roditis.

Best Wines in the Peloponesse Region

They are awarded at major international competitions, claiming a place in the global market, as they are exported in large numbers. In the Nemea region, there are some 3,000 hectares that produce mostly Agiorgitiko red wine, accounting for a high percentage of the country’s total production.

The plains, hillsides, and uplands, at altitudes of 260 to 800 meters, are surrounded by archaeological sites such as ancient Nemea, where, according to mythology, Hercules killed the lion. With the Nemea wine-tasting tour, a visitor, except for tasting wine, can see the temple of Zeus and the Stadium, thanks to archaeologist Steven G. Miller, who has continuously worked for more than 30 years, he discovered the Stadium and reconstructed some columns of the temple. Following Steven Miller’s recent passing, locals have honored him with gratitude.

Another interesting area is Mantineia, one of the coolest Greek vineyard zones that produces Moschofilero in around 1000 hectares, an aromatic white wine that has found fans all over the world. In Mantineia, a visitor can see the ancient theatre, which dates back to the 4th century BC, remains of the ancient agora, Roman baths, and the Bouleuterion. This archaeological site is not well known as a tourist destination in Greece, unfortunately.

Best wines in the Peloponnese region

Changing prefecture, we come to Achaia. The main variety of vineyards here is the white grape used to make the unique, sweet PDO Muscat of Rio-Patras, as well as the PDO Mavrodaphne, whose history began in 1873, when in a tower house inside the city of Patra, the Bavarian Gustav Clauss was inspired by the black(Mavro) eyes of his fiancée, Daphne. Mavrodaphne is very popular among Greeks; it is also very strong as a wine.

Today, the Mavrodaphne grape is cultivated to produce traditional sweet, long-aged wines. The region has the city of Patras as its capital, which is one of the largest cities in Greece, with the biggest port in western Greece. This port has been a big hub for exports to the west of Europe for decades, together with the new highway that was constructed a few years before, which makes it very important for the country.

Close by to Achaia, there are the mountainous vineyards of Aigialeia, where Roditis – the most planted white grape variety in Greece- is masterfully transformed into refreshing crisp whites.

Continuing southward, we reach beautifulLaconia, the land of Sparta. In Monemvasia, one can admire the medieval Byzantine castles. It is a beautiful complex of stone villages that is a must-visit destination for Greeks and tourists.

We meet Monemvasia, which once again is claiming its rightful place, now with PDO certification. Visitors to this area will also have the opportunity to try several other interesting wines made from the alluring Kydonitsa and the bolder Petroulianos varieties that are gradually making inroads.

Below you can see an infographic about wine production in Greece.

#Best wines in the Peloponnese region