Greece’s winemaking tradition is one of the oldest in the world, stretching back over 4,000 years to the Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations. Hundreds of indigenous grape varieties have thrived in this mountainous country, contributing to the creation of unique wines that reflect its diverse terroirs. Greek wine has always been at the heart of European winemaking, celebrated for its rich flavors and cultural significance since antiquity.
In ancient times, Greece was a hub of viticulture, exporting renowned wines like those of Chios and Thasos across the Mediterranean in amphorae marked with seals of origin and quality. The art of winemaking was closely tied to Greek mythology, with Dionysus, the god of wine, embodying the spirit of celebration and creativity. Symposiums—a fusion of philosophical discussion and wine enjoyment—further cemented wine’s role in Greek society.
Despite its illustrious past, Greece’s winemaking faced centuries of struggle. From 400 years of Ottoman rule, which prohibited commercial wine production, to invasions, civil war, political turmoil, and economic crises, the industry faced significant challenges. Yet, Greek winemakers persevered, blending tradition with innovation to rebuild their legacy.
Today, Greece’s wine industry is thriving once again, fueled by world-class expertise, modern wine technology, and a renewed focus on its indigenous grape varieties, such as Assyrtiko, Xinomavro, and Agiorgitiko. With mountain ranges, soothing Mediterranean winds, minimal rainfall, and concentrated sunshine, Greece’s unique geography produces wines with localized expressions of the terroir and taste profiles found nowhere else in the world.
The modern Greek wine scene is now ready to compete with the leading wine regions of central Europe. Its distinctive flavors and specialized techniques, honed over millennia, offer a fresh perspective on winemaking. It is time for new markets, including Scandinavia, to discover what Greece has to offer—a rich fusion of ancient heritage and modern craftsmanship in every glass.