Greek wines have a rich history dating back thousands of years, with a diverse array of grape varieties, wine regions and styles that are gaining increasing recognition on the global stage.
White wines make up about 60% of total production, while red wines account for about 40%. Greece has a significant number of wineries, ranging from small family-owned operations to larger commercial producers. There are more than 1200 wineries and 180,000 growers spread across the country’s various wine regions.
Greek wine exports to the UK have been growing in recent years, as British consumers become more interested in exploring diverse wine regions and unique grape varieties. The UK is the fifth most valuable export destination for Greek wine. In 2024, there was a 277% year-on-year increase in the sales of wine from Greece in the UK.
Greece’s wine regions are diverse, each with its unique terroir and grape varieties. Some of the notable regions include:
Macedonia: Located in northern Greece, this region is known for producing Xinomavro wines, particularly in the Naoussa PDO.
Santorini: This volcanic island in the Cyclades is famous for its Assyrtiko grape, producing crisp, mineral-driven white wines with remarkable acidity.
Peloponnese: This region in southern Greece is home to several important wine-producing areas, including Nemea (known for Agiorgitiko) and Mantinia (known for Moschofilero).
Crete: Greece’s largest island produces a wide range of wines, including whites made from Vidiano and reds from Liatiko.
Thrace: This region in northeastern Greece produces red wines from Xinomavro, Limnio and Mavroudi, as well as white wines from Roditis and Malvasia.
Thessaly: This coastal region is known for indigenous varieties like Krassato, Stavroto and Xinomavro.
Greece has a wealth of indigenous grape varieties, many of which are not found elsewhere. Some of the most important varieties include:
Assyrtiko: A white grape variety known for its mineral and citrus notes, primarily cultivated on the volcanic soils of Santorini.
Agiorgitiko: This red grape variety offers rich, velvety wines from the Peloponnese region, particularly Nemea.
Xinomavro: Producing complex and age-worthy reds with distinctive acidity and tannin structure, this variety is primarily grown in northern Greece
Moschofilero: A white grape variety that produces highly aromatic and crisp wines in the Peloponnese.
Malagousia: A white grape that yields aromatic and expressive wines with floral aromas and stone fruit flavours.
Liatiko: A red grape variety from Crete that produces medium-bodied wines with flavours of red fruits and herbs.
Vidiano: A white grape variety from Crete known for producing aromatic and well-structured wines.
Mavrodaphne: This variety is used to produce sweet and fortified wines with rich, dark fruit flavours.
Notable wine types include:
- Dry white wines from Assyrtiko, particularly from Santorini
- Aromatic white wines from Moschofilero in Mantinia
- Sweet Vinsanto wines from Santorini
- Fortified Mavrodaphne wines from Patras, similar to Port
Greek wines offer a fascinating array of indigenous grape varieties, unique terroirs, and diverse wine styles. The Greek wine industry continues to focus on quality and innovation, gaining recognition in international markets and offering wine enthusiasts a rich tapestry of flavours and experiences.
