Haritatos Vineyard, established in 1863, is a family-owned estate located in the picturesque region of Kefalonia, Greece. Situated near Lixouri on the island, the vineyard benefits from a unique terroir that gives its wines a distinctive character. Haritatos Vineyard is dedicated to producing high-quality wines through sustainable, organic practices, and the estate is celebrated for its traditional approach to winemaking.
Location and Terroir
The vineyard spans approximately 5 hectares and is planted with indigenous Kefalonian grape varieties, including Mavrodaphne, Vostilidi, and Muscat Petit Grain. The estate enjoys a unique microclimate with warm days and cool nights, which, combined with clay loam soils, imparts exceptional flavors and aromas to the grapes. The terroir of Kefalonia is reflected in the wines, making them true representations of the island’s natural beauty.
Philosophy
Haritatos Vineyard follows regenerative viticulture, focusing on organic cultivation methods and sustainable practices. Manual planting, pruning, and harvesting ensure that the vineyard works in harmony with nature’s cycles. The estate also implements water management practices, such as rainwater collection and minimal irrigation, to preserve the land for future generations while maintaining the authenticity of the wines.
Notable Wines
The vineyard produces a range of wines, including:
Mademoiselle: A dry red wine made from 100% Mavrodaphne grapes, offering vibrant red fruit flavors with hints of vanilla and spices.
Hariton: Hariton from Haritatos Vineyard white wine crafted exclusively from the indigenous Vostilidi grape of Cephalonia.
Sustainability
Sustainability is a core value at Haritatos Vineyard. The estate practices organic farming and uses minimal intervention techniques in winemaking. Additionally, the use of sheep and goats for weed management promotes biodiversity and reduces the need for chemical treatments, further reinforcing the vineyard’s commitment to ecological balance.
Uniqueness
Haritatos Vineyard is distinguished by its use of indigenous Kefalonian grape varieties and its adherence to traditional, sustainable winemaking practices. The family’s generational dedication to the land and their commitment to producing wines that capture the essence of Kefalonia make this estate truly unique.
Recognition
Though specific awards may not be detailed, Haritatos Vineyard has garnered recognition within the Greek wine community for its dedication to quality and sustainability. Its wines are increasingly appreciated by wine enthusiasts who seek unique, terroir-driven expressions of Kefalonian viticulture.
The picture of Ioanna, Haritos and Konstantinos – the three wonderful siblings behind the winery – was taken on our last visit, April 2023.