Wine has always been woven into Greece’s cultural fabric. From Dionysus, the god of wine, to the vineyards that ripple across the Peloponnese and islands, Greece’s viticulture is both ancient and evolving. Today, the country’s Wine Roads invite travelers to explore not just bottles, but landscapes, traditions, and stories. For the discerning traveler, these routes are radiant journeys into flavor and heritage.
The Rise of Wine Tourism in Greece
International food and wine publications highlight Greece as one of Europe’s most exciting wine destinations. Food & Wine and Bon Appétit note that travelers increasingly seek immersive experiences — vineyard tours, tastings of indigenous varietals, and pairings with local cuisine. Greece’s Wine Roads deliver exactly that: curated itineraries that combine terroir with culture. Events like Open Doors 2025, organized by Greek Wine Producers Associations, showcase this trend. For two days each May, wineries across the country welcome visitors with tastings, tours, and cultural activities. It’s a celebration of wine as living heritage.Peloponnese: Agiorgitiko and Mythic Landscapes
The Peloponnese Wine Roads are among the most celebrated. In Nemea, vineyards stretch across valleys once linked to Hercules. Here, the red varietal Agiorgitiko reigns, producing wines that are rich, velvety, and deeply Greek. Arcadia offers Moschofilero, a fragrant white grape that thrives in high‑altitude vineyards. Visitors can tour wineries nestled among ancient ruins, taste wines paired with local cheeses, and walk trails where mythology and viticulture intertwine.Northern Greece: Xinomavro and Bold Character
In Macedonia, the town of Naoussa is home to Xinomavro, a grape often compared to Nebbiolo for its complexity and aging potential. The Wine Roads here lead through mountainous vineyards and family‑run estates. Tastings often include bold reds alongside regional specialties like slow‑cooked lamb or handmade pies. For travelers, it’s a chance to experience wines that reflect both rugged landscapes and resilient traditions.Attica and Evia: Ancient Roots, Modern Expressions
Closer to Athens, the Wine Roads of Attica and Evia highlight varietals like Savatiano, historically used for retsina but now crafted into elegant modern wines. Tours often include visits to boutique wineries, tastings of 20+ wines, and pairings with artisanal chocolates. These routes are perfect for travelers who want to combine city exploration with countryside immersion.Ionian and Aegean Islands: Sunlit Elegance
The islands bring their own magic. In Santorini, volcanic soils produce the iconic Assyrtiko, crisp and mineral‑driven. Corfu and Kefalonia offer lush landscapes and varietals like Robola, while Crete showcases Vidiano and Liatiko, reflecting the island’s diverse terroir. Island wine routes often pair tastings with seaside tavern lunches, blending gastronomy with radiant views.Experiences Along the Wine Roads
What makes Greece’s Wine Roads unique is the blend of wine with culture:- Guided tastings led by WSET‑certified professionals.
- Pairings with artisanal products and local cuisine, elevating the sensory journey.
- Tours of ancient sites alongside vineyards, connecting wine to history.
- Seasonal festivals like Open Doors, where visitors join locals in celebration.
