A first-hand journey through Greece’s most historic wine peninsula, exploring PDOs, producers, and the landscapes that shape them
Wine isn’t new to the Peloponnese; it’s part of ancient history. Mythology references Greek gods like Dionysus, poets like Homer wrote about its epic vineyards, and archaeologists keep turning up grape seeds to prove the point. Thousands of years later, the same hills and many of the same varieties still exist, and the wines produced carry both tradition and character.
The Peloponnese is one of the oldest and southernmost growing areas in all of Europe and therefore experiences consistently high temperatures, although at higher elevations than I expected. More than 50 mountains clear 1,000 metres, and the largest top out between 1,900 and 2,400 metres. Traveling in October, we saw snow on the peaks, and felt cooler air down through the valleys. Vineyards at higher elevation sites get the payoff: slower ripening, lower alcohol, more finesse, and wines with persistence.
Read Also: Exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast: wine, food, and culture
Even along the coast, the seas do the moderating. The Peloponnese is practically ringed: Corinthian Gulf to the north, Ionian Sea to the west, Saronic and Argolic Gulfs to the east, and the Mediterranean to the south. All that water keeps temperatures in check and helps explain why Greece ended up with such a patchwork of winegrowing sites—and why so many local varieties are still tied to the growers who farm them.
Included within this guide:
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Native grapes of the Peloponnese
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Know the PDOs and PGIs
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Peloponnese ‘Vine Route’ – suggested itinerary
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Planning and travel resources
Ancient Grapevines at Drouvas Winery (Photo by Carl Giavanti).
Native grapes abound
By some estimates, there are 200-300 wine grapes native to Greece and her Islands. Most are unpronounceable, but they are part of Greek Wine’s claim to fame. However, the Greek wine industry is quite small, about the size of Oregon’s in the U.S. (about 1,200 wineries), and produces and exports a relatively low volume of wine compared to its European counterparts.
On the Peloponnese Peninsula, there are almost 200 wineries, which produce an assortment of native grapes (as well as international varieties). My best estimate is around 35-40 indigenous varieties according to European PDO (Protected Designation of Origin), and PGI (Protected Geographic Indication) records, but estimates vary widely.
They aren’t as hard to pronounce as you might think, and when you visit the Peloponnese, meet the people, and taste the wines, you’ll get the hang of it. Here are some common native grape varieties.
Whites
- Moschofilero – Bright, floral, and refreshing. Citrus, a hint of rose, and plenty of lift.
- Roditis – Clean, steely acidity, with green apple, citrus, and a mineral edge.
- Kidonitsa – Aromatic without being showy. Stone fruit, florals, and a modern feel.
- Lagorthi – High-altitude energy. Lemon, herbs, and acidity that keeps things honest.
- Monemvasia – dry raisin, pear, almond, caramel, and a savory note that lingers.
Reds
- Agiorgitiko – The flagship red grape. Red-purple fruited, soft tannins, smooth and silky
- Mavrodaphne – Dry versions are black fruited, bold, concentrated, and well structured.
- Mavro Kalavrytino – Dark fruited, fresh, lifted, and round with pleasant acidity.
Yiannis Paraskevopoulos, co-founder of the Gai’a winery is rumored to have said that understanding Greek Wine is quite easy – each region is identified by its own native grapes! I’ll discuss this concept when we get into the winery visits themselves.
Grapes Drying Appassamiento for Sweet Wine Production (photo by Carl Giavanti).
PDOs versus PGIs
These regional designations attempt to describe the wide range of terroir on the Peloponnese, which includes varied soil types, mountainous regions, and maritime influence. The climate can generally be described as Mediterranean.
PDOs are Protected Designations of Origin, and like most European winemaking countries, the grapes must come from the region, and specific grapes and winemaking methods may apply. PDO rules are generally much stricter and more traditional, and include native grape varieties. Here are the five regions we visited. Note that Corinthia and Olympia are technically PGIs.
- Nemea – only Agiorgitiko (soft structured reds)
- Corinthia – Agiorgitiko, Roditis, Moschofilero, Mavroudi for red
- Patras – mostly Roditis (whites)
- Mavrodaphne – fortified sweet wines
- Muscat – dessert wines
- Monemvasia-Malvasia – Monemvasia, plus other permitted grapes. Dessert wine
- Olympia (PGI) – Roditis, Mavrofilero (whites), Malgousia, Assyrtiko and Agiorgitiko
- Mantinia – only Moschofilero (crisp high-altitude whites). Note: not covered in this article
PGIs are Protected Geographic Indications, a European Union Wine Classification also used in Italy, France, Spain, etc. PGIs cover broad geographic regions such as the Peloponnese as a whole. They are more flexible and can include international grapes such as cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, etc., and are a more creative, modern take on regional designations.
Too easy, right? Wrong. Wouldn’t you know that within the Peloponnese PGI, there are seven Regional and eight Area PGIs for a total of 16 distinct PGIs on the Peloponnese. For our civilian readers, I hope it will suffice to only reference the main and formal PDOs for this article.
Generally speaking, if you’re interested in native grape varieties, pay close attention to the four main PDOs. If you’re interested in a more creative approach to modern Greek winemaking, learn more about the PGIs.
The Peloponnese ‘Vine Route’ – suggested itinerary
You reach the Corinth Canal crossing onto the Peloponnese Peninsula in just one-hour drive from Athens. You could easily visit a few wineries in the Corinth and Nemea regions as a day trip, but to experience the history and diversity of the five PDO regions previously discussed, dedicated wine lovers should consider a more extended trip. Our self-guided tour lasted three weeks, but if your focus is wine touring, you can hit each of these stellar wineries in 10 days to two weeks. This ‘vine route’ navigates the peninsula counter-clockwise.
Outdoor Dining at Giannikos Winery (Carl Giavanti).
Giannikos Winery – Corinthia region
Gianikos Winery is one of the closest to Athens, and a great first stop as you enter the Peloponnese. They are focusing on single varietal wines grown certified organic, and produce both indigenous Greek varieties and the high-quality wines from international grapes.
Michalis (Michael) Giannikos is the dynamic family patron of the winery. Today the whole family is involved, including his wife and two sons. The original vineyards were planted in 1896 in Mycenae, the same year as the first modern Olympic games. These vineyards are some of the first to be planted during the wine business recovery in the late 19th century after the 400 years of Turkish occupation. Michalis is reviving some ancient varietals like Malagousia, and is one of only four wineries producing Auguostiatis in Greece.
Tasting room visits are by appointment only and arrangements for group lunch with the family can be made, which I would highly recommend. It felt like our group was having lunch with friends. RV Camping is also available and very popular with Europeans, as well as modern day Saint Paul seeking religious tourists. The wines are available in 30 countries, although distribution is on pause due to the 2025 tariff mishigas in the United States. We’re all confident this will eventually resume.
Roditis is the one wine most emblematic of this winery brand
Read about Michael Giannikos in this Wine Characters Interview
Mega Spilaio Estate Winery – Patras PDO
Mega Spileo Estate is an ancient pilgrimage spot – both monastery and winery – and a UNESCO World heritage site, and national geo-park. It is one of the longest operating wineries in Greece.
The Mega Spileo Monastery and Byzantine Church was established in 362 A.D. It is said to be the second oldest existing monastery in the world. Monks cultivated vineyards and produced wine here from the mid-15th century, for sustenance and holy communion, and to be shared with visiting pilgrims. During the 400-year Ottoman occupation, the monastery was protected by the Sultan, and wine production was allowed on a limited basis for visiting pilgrims, who were assessed a sort of sin or consumption tax for the privilege. In 1999, the current owners, Giannis and Theodoros Anastasiou. leased land from the monastery, replanted it with vineyards, and continue to revive this fascinating history.
Arriving at the winery is a pilgrimage in itself, as you wind your way to 5,000 feet elevation and stunning views of the 25 acres of estate vineyards and surrounding mountains.
The tasting room is located in the Achaia region near Patras, and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 3 PM. Check the site to make an appointment by email or online. There are several experiences to choose from, including tours of the winery, cellar and estate experience, and tastings with vineyard views. Mega Spileo is part of Cavino, the largest family of wines in Greece. The wines are available in 59 countries, including Germany, Canada, the U.S., Belgium, and the Netherlands.
The Mega Spileo Estate “Grand Cave” red wine is the flagship of this brand
Read about winemaker Stelios Tsiris in this Wine Characters Interview
Achaia Clauss.
Achaia Clauss Winery – Patras PDO
Achaia Clauss was founded in 1861 by Bavarian Gustav Clauss and is the oldest continuously operating winery in Greece. Gustav built the winery and village along with the local community. As many as 130 villagers lived in the winery homestead and worked at the winery during its heyday. He also built schools and churches for the community and employees.
We enjoyed exceptional hospitality led by Alexandros Baltas, the gifted high-energy and conversational son of his father Periklis, who heads up winery and archive operations. We participated in two different tours, including the Barrel Museum and the Imperial Museum. Everything about this winery seems to parallel modern Greek history. Read the timeline, legacy and history here.
The Achaia Clauss brand and reputation was built on the Mavrodaphne grape, for both its fortified sweet wines and exceptionally ageable dry table wines. An historical tour of the barrel room reveals aged Mavrodaphne wines from the 1800s, many dedicated to and named after aristocrats, kings and celebrities. A barrel of the 1873 vintage weighs four tons and holds four tons of wine. It said to be the oldest in the world.
Touring the Imperial Museum is equally impressive. You find signed photos and thank you notes from princes, princesses and actors throughout the display, as well as lots of other historical memorabilia.
The HOUSE of CLAUSS tasting room is open 11 AM to 5 PM Wednesday through Sunday by reservation. There are multiple tour options to choose from, also on a reservations only basis. The winery also holds multiple events, cultural and musical festivals, including an annual Carnival parade and traditional dancing, all open to the local community, winery employees and the public. The wines are distributed in the US and Canada as well as multiple countries in the EU.
Mavrodaphne is the one wine most emblematic of the Achia Clauss brand
Read about Winemaker Sotiris Karagiannis in this Wine Characters Interview
Drouvas Family at the Winery in Olympia. (Carl Giavanti)
Drouvas Winery – Olympia PGI
Drouvas Winery is located on the hills outside of Olympia. It’s an ideal stop en route to Olympia from Patras. This family winery is old school in the best of ways, which you will experience when you visit. The Drouvas Family team – patriarch father Spiros and next gen winemaker daughter Julia – have evolved its winemaking practices while maintaining family traditions. Grandfather Sakis planted the vineyards in 1960, with both white and black grapes, which he blended into a table wine. Today the focus is on single variety, premium wines from indigenous grapes from their estate vineyards.
We loved strolling the 200-acre property, replete with 70 acres of estate winegrapes and olive, lemon, and orange trees. You’ll do the same when you visit. You will want to take wine with you, as the lineup is only available for purchase on the Peloponnese.
Spiros also makes Tsipouro, a traditional Greek spirit distilled from grape pomace – leftover skins – from Mavrofilero and Moscato grapes. Personally, I really like Tsipouro after dinner (more than Ouzo), but the Greeks are fond of sipping it before dinner with Mezze before dinner (think Spanish tapas with Vermut, cidre or a dry white wine like Albariño).
Tastings include a vineyard and winery tour, and can be scheduled Monday through Friday by appointment, and 10 AM to 2 PM on weekends. I was left with the impression and insight that it’s one thing to do hospitality well; it’s another thing to be hospitality. Tours and food provided by the family.
Not surprisingly, the one wine most emblematic of the Drouva brand? The Giuli (Julie) Rosé.
Read about winemaker Julia Drouvas in this Wine Characters Interview
Monemvasia Winery – Monemvasia-Malvasia PDO
The Tsimbidis Family (Yorgos and Elli) founded the winery in 1997 with a mission. Revive the lost Monemvasia grape and Malvasia wines. They partnered with the University of Athens in 2002 to bring back the mythical grape. Their success resulted in the creation of the Monemvasia-Malvasia PDO.
Over the past few years, Monemvasia Winery has created an impressive vineyard of 300 stremmas (75 acres) of native grapes. Dubbed the Malvasia project, the wines were renowned in the late medieval period when sweet white wines were popular. Stone wine presses were recovered in the vineyards from the 13th century, proving that winemaking had gone on in the region. The winery sourced Malvasia grapes from Crete and Parros Island, to kick off the project. The Tsimbidi winemaking team uses the appassimiento method to concentrate flavors (think Northern Italian Amarone or Recioto from Valpolicella). Fun fact – it takes about 1.5 kilos (almost 4 pounds) of raisins to produce one bottle of Malvasia wine.
Today, daughters Marialena, Anastasia, and Andreas lead the business and ensure a future for several 100 percent estate grown native grapes, including Monemvasia, Kydonitis, Assyrtiko, and Asproudes, which blended comprise the Malvasia style of sweet white wine.
You can visit the tasting room located in the Laconia region on the southern tip of the Peloponnese, from Tuesday through Saturday 10 AM to 4 PM with reservations. Each visit is about 60 to 90 minutes and includes several options for tours, tastings, and private tours for up to 35 people. Combining a visit to the winery and a visit to the ancient walled city of Monemvasia was certainly a highlight of our trip to Greece and the Peloponnese. The winery produces about 20,000 cases and is distributed in over 30 countries, including the U.S., Canada, and much of Europe.
Monemvasia-Malvasia is the wine most emblematic of the brand
Read about winegrower Yiorgos Tsimbidis in this Wine Characters Interview
Carl Giavanti with Aris Spaidiotis at Domaine Skouras.
Domaine Skouras – Nemea PDO
George Skouras founded Domaine Skouras Winery in 1986, with a keen focus on the Agiorgitiko variety, one of the most iconic red wines in Greece. The winery was one of the first established in the Nemea region. He studied enology in France in the early 1980s, and his son Dimitris carries on the family winemaking tradition in the cellar with a thoughtful and intentional approach to production.
Fast forward to 2004 when a new winemaking facility was built. It is an elegant ultra-modern winery and hospitality complex, with a nod to Greek architecture. They receive about 10,000 visitors per year, making it one of the most popular places and one of the closest to Athens when visiting the Peloponnese.
We were enthusiastically greeted by Aris Spaidiotis, Exports Manager, who toured us through the facility and 1,000-barrel cellar, and tasted us through the lineup. Skouras is a relatively large producer at about 70,000 cases, 50 percent of which are exported. We can attest that Aris is pretty good at his job. After the facilities and production overview, we settled into the tasting room for a catered lunch, which is an available option for visitors with advance reservations.
The tasting room is open Monday through Friday 9 AM to 4:30 PM, and Saturday 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Reservations required. George Skouras and his wife Ourania are art lovers. You’ll find their art exhibited throughout the hospitality center, on the veranda, in the bistro and on bottle labels as well.
Megas Oenos (Agiorgitiko and cabernet sauvignon) is the one wine most emblematic of this brand
Read about winemaker Dimitris Skouras in this Wine Characters Interview
Semeli Estate – Corinthia region
Semeli Estate is located in the Corinth region only one hour from Athens. The winery was founded in 1979, and the modern facility built in 2002. It’s perched at 1,800 feet elevation, with stunning vineyard and surrounding hillside views. The brand is known for the architectural elegance of its winery, advanced use of winemaking technology, value pricing, and environmental consciousness. This is relatively large winery, producing 100,000 cases with exports to the U.S.A and UK.
We met with Winemaker Yiannis Flerianos, a graduate of UC Davis in California. We discussed some of the projects that he initiated starting in 2021, including the introduction of Bordeaux blends, lees versus oak treatment for aging, and six percent alcohol wine, which was encouragingly tasty and light bodied. Yiannis shared that the winery is carbon neutral, has an aggressive waste management program, and that production is gravity fed, reducing the need for mechanization.
The Semeli experience offers several hospitality options, including wine tasting, dining, and 10 luxury suites for overnight visitors. Guests have full access to all winery activities and venues. Tastings are held 10 AM to 4 PM daily, and 11 AM to 5 PM on the weekends. Reservations required for tours, tastings, and other options including Wine and Dine and picnics in the garden.
Nemea Reserve Agiorgitiko is the flagship wine of this brand
Read about winemaker Yiannis Flerianos in this Wine Characters Interview
Antonis Papantonis at his namesake Winery in Nemea (Photo by: Carl Giavanti).
Papantonis Winery – Nemea PDO
Antonis Papantonis is an iconoclast and one of the unique characters we met in the Nemea PDO and on the Peloponnese. He Is the kind of person I love to feature in my Wine Characters interview series. Ask him anything, you’ll get a candid opinion.
I asked him why a graduate of economics from a university in Iowa, USA, would ever get into the Wine business. He chuckled and said, “to lose money, of course”. His companion George glibly said, “Why Not?”
Nonetheless, he founded the winery, storage and tasting room facilities in 1992 with sibling Kalli Papantonis. They are located in Argos, just north of Nafplion, the original capital of Greece. We tasted through the two wines on offer – one white, a blend of Roditis and chardonnay; and one red, 100 percent Agiorgitiko – which Antonis chose as the most emblematic of the Papantonis brand. Both wines were clean, fresh and distinctive, and had names that translate to “nothing in excess, moderation is best”. I found this entertaining and ironic as our visit was anything but moderate in nature. Antonis brought out several vintages of wines and an extensive lunch. I opted for a long nap instead of dinner that night.
All of these experiences are available daily from 10 AM to 2 PM, and weekends by appointment. I strongly suggest you email or call Antonis in advance to make arrangements. You’ll be glad you did.
Medan Agan Agiorgitiko is the one wine most emblematic of the brand
Read about winemaker Antonis Papantonis in the Wine Characters Interview
Planning and travel resources
Check out these websites for more info, planning and touring resources, wine trails suggestions, maps and details on visiting the historic Peloponnese wine region.
- Wines of Peloponnese https://enoap.org/en/wineries.html
- Useful Links https://enoap.org/en/useful-links.html
- Discover Greece https://www.discovergreece.com/peloponnese
- Wine Tourism https://www.winetourism.com/wine-region/peloponnese/
- Greece Travel Guides https://www.greecetravel.com/peloponnesos/index.html
Carl Giavanti is a recovering winery publicist with a passion for people and storytelling. After 15 years of PR consulting, wine business writing, and interviewing wine writers, Carl is laser focused on wine travel writing, and interviewing winemakers for his Wine Characters project. Click here to learn more about Carl, and visit his Author Pages and platforms https://linktr.ee/carlgiavanti.
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