These years, Greece is going through a renaissance in the use of indigenous grape varietals. Hundreds of varietals which have been used in the creation of unique wines for thousands of years in the mountainous country. Greece has been at the centre of European winemaking since antiquity and it is now kicking back into high gear, able to compete with the other wine countries of central Europe. Their know-how, technology and specialisation are world-class, despite the struggles the country has gone through in recent years; 400 years of prohibition against producing wine commercially, invasions, civil war, junta rule, economic crisis and rising competition.
It is time for Scandinavia to taste what the modern Greek wine industry has to offer. With its mountain ranges, soothing Mediterranean winds, minimal rain, concentrated sun and highly specialized techniques to preserve the vines from the harsh elements, Greece produces wines with completely localized expressions of the terroir and unique taste profiles which are not to be found anywhere else in the world.
Read on for a rundown of the most widely used, rarest, oldest and most interesting grape varietals Greece has to offer.
Agiorgitiko
Nemea on the Peloponnese peninsula is the largest PDO appellation in Greece and home to the Agiorgitiko grape. The varietal grows in a relatively cold clime, with wet winters and temperatures that are low but do not fall below freezing. The summers are warm, without being too hot. The grapes are usually harvested in September.
Wines on the Agiorgitiko grape are often characterized by deep red colour and aromatic notes of toffee and red fruits, like ripe strawberries and blackcurrant when young and cask aged. Older wines are driven by dried fruit, think fig, raisin and plum. The tannic structure of Agiorgitiko wines is remarkably soft and develops slowly.
The Agiorgitiko grape is also grown outside Nemea. Depending on the terroir and geographic region, it can express many different qualities. The grape is said to be somewhat of a chameleon, taking on strong characteristics of its growing conditions.
See our collection of Agiorgitiko wines
Assyrtiko
Originally from the island of Santorini, the Assyrtiko grape is now found all over Greece and is now used to make some of the highest quality white, sweet and light orange wines the country has to offer. It does well in hot climates with little rain, while still keeping its high acidity and mineral crispness intact.
The classic PDO Assyrtikos of Santorini, often classed as some of the best whites on the world stage, emphasises the concentrated mineral structure of the grape, while wines from other regions often have more fruit both on nose and palate. Assyrtiko wines are great candidates for ageing, especially those with barrel ageing, but all store well up to 10 years or more, developing ripe fruit, honey and intensifying the mineral expressions.
See our collection of Assyrtiko wines
Limnio
Travel back in time with the Limnio grape. It is the oldest recorded blue grape variety in the world and comes from the volcanic island of Lemnos. Wines made from the Limio grape were enjoyed and recorded by Homer, Hesiod and Polydefkis in antiquity.
Limnio delivers floral and berry aromas and flavours of lavender, violet, rose, cherry, cranberry and raspberry mixed with heavier compounds such as cinnamon and black or green pepper, framed by a pleasant acidity and smooth tannins. The grape offers a great wine experience and is often compared to or substituted as an alternative to reds on Barbera or Pinot Noir.
See our collection of Limnio wines
Malagousia
This unique green varietal is grown mainly in the colder climes of northern Greece, in and around Macedonia. Almost extinct by the 1970s, this aromatic grape has been rediscovered by producers of natural wine and academics who made a concerted effort, which resulted in worldwide recognition of this quintessential Greek varietal.
Known for making wines with pale yellow hues and high acidity with notes of intense lemon, floral and sometimes even a hint of petroleum, Malagousia wines are refreshing but highly complex. Most wines on this varietal are aged on steel tanks, though fantastic whites and oranges are made using barrel ageing, and they are at their best when young.
See our collection of Malagousia wines
Mandilaria
This rich blue grape is found mainly on the islands of Crete and Rhodes. The thick-skinned varietal has a distinctive aroma and flavour profile of black fruits, herbs and leather, but can lack body and structure, therefore it is most often used in blends that mellow the high tannins of the Mandilaria and gives it more body and structure.
See our collection of Mandalaria wines
Mavrodaphne
Mavrodaphne is most often found on the Peloponnese peninsula and the Ionian Islands. It is traditionally used in sweet, fortified wines, especially on the island of Kefalonia, known for their PDO Mavrodaphne of Cephalonia,” a rich red sweet made with sun-dried grapes, sometimes compared to the flavour profiles of Port.
The deep red fruit, leather and earthiness of the Mavrodaphne grape make it perfect for sweet wines, but in recent years, several wineries have begun producing dry reds on the varietal, producing some grand wines often compared to big-name Amarone wines. Almost always cask aged, wines on Mavrodaphne are perfect for storage and only get better with age.
See our collection of Mavrodaphne wines
Mavro Kalavrytino
Mavro Kalavrytino, also known as Black of Kalavryta, is the local blue grape grown in the mountainsides of Ajialio and Kalavryta in the Achaia region, in the northwest part of the Peloponnese peninsula. It was close to extinction until oenologist Panayiotis Papagiannopoulos from Tetramythos wines found viable Mavro Kalavrytino vines 15 years ago, which helped save the varietal.
Mavro Kalavrytino is a small, thin-skinned, tricksy grape that ripens in late October. It is characterized by a nice concentration of acids and tannins, with fruity strawberry aromas, tinged with a hint of earthiness that lends itself to a unique, soft, light, medium-bodied elegant tannic structure. Known for its refreshing taste, wines on the Mavro Kalavrytino varietal are an exciting alternative to Pinot Noir from places like Burgundy. The more the wine ages, the more notes of leather and earth will develop in the aroma.
Though the grape is mostly found as a supporting player in blends, Tetramythos wines uniquely produce 100% Mavro Kalavrytino wines.
See our collection of Mavro Kalavrytino wines
Moschofilero
This versatile, pink varietal has its home on the Peloponnese peninsula and is used to produce both light, vibrant wines, as well as more full-bodied ones. Perfect for drinking while still young and slightly cooled. Fragrant with notes of citrus, green fruits and florality, its versatile nature makes it perfect for dry and sweeter whites and rosés, as well as fun orange wines. Often ideal for drinking by itself, spicy or vegetable-based dishes or as pairing with cheeses.
See our collection of Moschofilero wines
Muscat
While the Muscat grape is known for its sweeter, aromatic wines from all around the world, Greece has several varieties that have been cultivated in local areas for ages.
Muscat of Alexandria, while also grown in other regions, has a storied history on the island of Lemnos and in northern Greece. Both used for sweet and dry whites, this grape produced aromatic, full-bodied wines with notes of stone fruit and citrus. The fruit-heavy and well-structured nature of Muscat of Alexandria also lends itself perfectly for orange wines heavy in orange peel and earthy minerality.
Muscat de Cephalonia, as the name suggests, hails from the island of Cephalonia. Though almost going extinct in the 20th century, a redoubled effort of cultivation has yielded some supremely aromatic and complex dry and sweet whites and a few world-class orange wines.
See our collection of Muscat wines
Negoska
This variety is indigenous to northern Greece and takes its name from the city of Naoussa in Macedonia. Though little Negoska is produced, and even fewer single-grape wines exist, don’t cheat yourself if you find one. With impressive tannins and acidity, the notes of berries, black fruits and wood create an impressive red, perfect for drinking both young and with medium or long ageing.
When not flying solo, the Negoska grape is the perfect supporting partner for Xinomavro-based wines. The big appellation wines of the Goumenissa region, PDO Goumenissa, show how Negoska can rein in the unbridled nature of the heavy Xinomavro, rounding it off with perfect tannins and notes of dark fruits, tomato, leather and tobacco, all with refreshing acidity.
See our collection of Negoska wines
Roditis
Roditis is the most widely planted green varietal in Greece. It has a rose-coloured skin and is especially popular in Attica, Macedonia, Thessaly and the Peloponnese peninsula, where it can take advantage of the mountainous slopes. It is at its best when allowed to have a low yield, and the grapes produced can show off the elegant citrus and mineral notes that the grape is known for.
A fantastic varietal for both white and orange wines, that are often great value for money.
See our collection of Roditis wines
Savatiano
The historic green Savatiano varietal is among the Greek vineyards’ most planted and used grapes. Used itself or in a mix with other varietals, this grape accounts for a significant amount of the white wines produced in the Attika region, located just outside Athens.
Traditionally connected to the production of Retsina, many wineries produce Savatiano wines today without added pine resin and the results are impressive. Wines on Savatiano have a pleasant level of acidity and alcohol, and it is often found in combination with Assyrtiko and Roditis grapes, and even Sauvignon Blanc.
Savatiano wines are known for notes of dried wild herbs, green apple, lime and honeydew. With notes of fruit that make for easy drinking, Savatiano often offers great value for money.
See our collection of Savatioano wines
Vostilidi
A grape hailing from the Ionian islands of Kefalonia and Zakynthos. It is characterized by notes of exotic and yellow fruits and produces wines with intense yellow colours with high acidity but low tannins, making it perfect for deep whites and oranges. It can be found in both cask-aged matured versions and steel-matured ones.
This grape pairs perfectly with sweeter dishes, cheeses, fish and seafood, as well as white meats like roast poultry.
See our collection of Vostilidi wines
Xinomavro
Xinomavro is the noblest of the red grapes found in northern Greece. The low yield of the vines that grow in the cool mountains of the area is perfect for the Xinomavro grape to produce rich red wines with a high alcohol percentage, good colour and enough tannins to produce a great wine for longer ageing.
Xinomavro produces wines that are worth comparing to the great Nebbiolo-based reds from Barolo, Barbaresco and Valtellina in northwestern Italy, as well as the structured and spicy Pinot Noirs of Côtes de Nuits in Burgundy. Though classically used for reds.
Xinomavro can also be enjoyed as impressive blanc de noir wines, both still and sparkling, or as well-structured Rosé that are perfect for pairing with food, just like all Xinomavro wines are. Try it with roasted meats or fish mushrooms or casserole dishes with strong spices and heavy umami.
See our collection of Xinomavro wines
Rare grapes
Agrippiotis
Agrippiotis is a rare indigenous white grape variety originating from the western regions of Greece, particularly the Ionian islands and the Peloponnese. Known for its ability to thrive in warm climates, it produces wines with bright acidity, delicate aromas of citrus and white flowers, and a mineral-driven finish.
While not widely cultivated, Agrippiotis showcases the diversity of Greek viticulture and offers a unique taste profile that reflects its Mediterranean terroir. Whether vinified as a crisp, refreshing white or blended to add complexity, this grape is a testament to Greece’s rich winemaking heritage and its commitment to preserving native varietals.
Perfect for lovers of distinctive, terroir-driven wines, Agrippiotis invites you to explore the lesser-known treasures of Greek wine
See our collection of Agrippiotis wines
Aidani
Aidani is a cherished white grape variety native to Greece, with its roots deeply intertwined with the volcanic soils of Santorini and the Aegean islands. Often used in blends alongside Assyrtiko, this aromatic grape softens the intensity of its counterparts while adding a layer of floral elegance.
Wines made from Aidani are known for their delicate aromas of white flowers, citrus blossoms, and hints of tropical fruit, balanced by a gentle acidity and a smooth, refreshing finish. Its adaptability to the harsh, sun-drenched island conditions highlights its resilience and connection to the Mediterranean terroir.
Perfect for pairing with seafood, fresh salads, and light Mediterranean dishes, Aidani offers a taste of Greece’s sunlit vineyards and centuries-old winemaking traditions.
See our collection of Aidani Wines
Begleri
Begleri is a rare white grape variety native to the Aegean islands, particularly Ikaria, where it thrives in the region’s rugged terrain and maritime climate. Known for its vibrant character, Begleri is a standout among Greece’s indigenous varieties.
Wines made from Begleri are light to medium-bodied, offering refreshing acidity and enticing aromas of citrus fruits, white flowers, and tropical hints. On the palate, its crisp and clean profile makes it an excellent choice for pairing with seafood, light cheeses, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Begleri’s revival highlights Greece’s commitment to preserving its vinous heritage, offering wine enthusiasts a unique expression of the Aegean’s terroir and traditions.
See our collection of Begleri wines
Kakotrygis
Kakotrygis is a rare white grape variety native to the island of Corfu, known for its adaptability and the fresh, lively wines it produces. Thriving in Corfu’s Mediterranean climate and fertile soils, this indigenous variety has been a cornerstone of the island’s winemaking heritage.
Wines from Kakotrygis are light to medium-bodied with crisp acidity and delicate flavors of citrus, green apple, and subtle herbal notes. Its refreshing character makes it a perfect choice for pairing with seafood, salads, and light Mediterranean dishes.
Its unique characteristics continue to showcase the rich variety of Greece’s native grapes
See our collection of Kakotrygis wines
Rozaki
Rozaki is a versatile grape variety native to Greece, primarily celebrated as a table grape but also used in winemaking. Known for its large, rosy-hued berries, Rozaki thrives in Greece’s warm Mediterranean climate and has been cherished for centuries for its sweet and juicy character.
In winemaking, Rozaki produces light, aromatic wines with gentle flavors of ripe stone fruits, floral notes, and a touch of honeyed sweetness. Its natural charm makes it a delightful choice for easy-drinking wines or as a blending grape to enhance aromatic profiles.
See our collection of Rozaki wines
Fokiano
Fokiano is an ancient red grape variety from Greece, widely grown in the Aegean islands and parts of mainland Greece. Known for its versatility, Fokiano is often used to produce both dry and sweet wines, with a particular reputation for luscious, sun-dried dessert wines.
Wines made from Fokiano typically feature a bright ruby hue, vibrant acidity, and flavors of red berries, dried fruit, and subtle spices. Its natural sweetness and balanced profile make it an excellent pairing for traditional Greek desserts or aged cheeses.
As a grape with deep historical roots, Fokiano reflects the rich winemaking traditions of Greece.
See our collection of Fokiano wines
Kosmas
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Krassato
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Liatiko
Liatiko is one of Greece’s oldest and most distinctive red grape varieties, deeply rooted in the island of Crete. Known for its versatility, Liatiko is used to produce a range of wines, from dry reds with complex flavors to luscious sweet wines like the traditional Malvasia.
The grape thrives in Crete’s sunny, arid climate, where it ripens early—its name is thought to derive from “Iouliatiko,” meaning “of July” in Greek. Wines made from Liatiko are celebrated for their light ruby color, aromas of dried fruit, spices, and herbs, and a unique balance of elegance and earthy character.
Whether enjoyed as a robust table wine or a decadent dessert wine, Liatiko reflects Cretes winemaking heritage.
See our collection of Liatiko wines
Limniona
Limniona is a red grape variety native to Thessaly in central Greece, celebrated for its recent revival and growing acclaim. Once on the brink of extinction, this ancient grape has been rediscovered by passionate winemakers who recognize its potential to produce elegant, terroir-driven wines.
Wines made from Limniona are typically medium-bodied with refined tannins and vibrant acidity. They showcase complex aromas of red berries, wild herbs, and subtle floral notes, often complemented by a savory, mineral undertone. The grape’s adaptability to sustainable and organic farming practices has further cemented its place in modern Greek viticulture.
As a symbol of Greece’s dedication to preserving indigenous varieties, Limniona offers wine enthusiasts a glimpse into the country’s rich winemaking heritage and a taste of its innovative future.
See our collection of Limniona wines
Mavrotragano
Mavrotragano is a rare and captivating red grape variety native to Santorini, embodying the island’s volcanic terroir. Once primarily used for sweet wines, it has found new life as a dry red, thanks to the dedication of modern winemakers as Hatzidakis.
The grape’s name translates to “black and crisp,” reflecting its small, dark berries and firm structure. Mavrotragano produces wines with deep color, robust tannins, and a distinctive flavor profile of black fruits, spices, and earthy minerality. Its limited cultivation and labor-intensive care make it a prized variety that offers a truly unique expression of Santorini’s viticulture.
Mavrotragano is a must-try for wine enthusiasts seeking bold, complex reds.
See our collection of Mavrotragano wines
Muscatella
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Robola
Robola is a renowned white grape variety native to the island of Kefalonia, celebrated for its crisp, mineral-driven wines that reflect the island’s limestone-rich soils. Known as the “Wine of the Stone,” Robola thrives in the rugged, mountainous vineyards of Kefalonia, producing wines with exceptional freshness and complexity.
Wines from Robola are characterized by their bright acidity, citrus and green apple aromas, and a distinct minerality that speaks to the grape’s unique terroir. These qualities make Robola an ideal pairing for seafood, fresh salads, and Mediterranean dishes.
As a flagship variety of Kefalonia, Robola is a testament to Greece’s ability to craft world-class wines from indigenous grapes with a true sense of the terroir.
See our collection of Robola wines
Sideritis
Sideritis is a unique and rare grape variety native to western Greece, notable for its distinctive pink-skinned berries. Known for its adaptability to challenging climates, this indigenous grape is used to produce elegant white wines with a fresh, aromatic profile.
Wines from Sideritis are typically light-bodied with crisp acidity and delicate flavors of citrus, stone fruit, and subtle floral notes. Its mineral undertones reflect the terroir of its Mediterranean origins, making it a perfect companion to seafood, light cheeses, and fresh summer dishes.
See our collection of Sideritis wines
Stavroto
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Thrapsathiri
Thrapsathiri is an ancient white grape variety native to Crete, celebrated for its ability to produce full-bodied, aromatic wines that reflect the island’s sunny Mediterranean climate. Thriving in Crete’s diverse terroirs, it is highly valued for its resilience and versatility.
Wines made from Thrapsathiri often display a golden hue, with aromas of ripe orchard fruits, citrus, and hints of herbs. On the palate, they are rich and balanced, with refreshing acidity and a smooth, lingering finish. Its adaptability also makes it an excellent blending partner for other Cretan grapes.
Thrapsathiri is a shining example of Crete’s winemaking heritage.
See our collection of Thrapsathiri wines
Tsaousi
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Vidiano
Vidiano is a prized white grape variety from Crete, often hailed as one of the island’s most promising indigenous grapes. Known for its aromatic complexity and balanced structure, Vidiano is making a strong comeback in modern winemaking.
Wines from Vidiano are typically medium-bodied with vibrant acidity and captivating aromas of stone fruits, citrus blossoms, and herbs. They often carry a subtle minerality that reflects Crete’s diverse terroir, making them both expressive and versatile.
As a symbol of Crete’s vinous renaissance, Vidiano combines tradition with innovation.
See our collection of Vidiano wines
Zakynthino
Zakynthino is a rare white grape variety native to the Ionian island of Zakynthos, cherished for its ability to produce fresh, aromatic wines with a strong sense of place. This indigenous variety thrives in the island’s limestone-rich soils and mild Mediterranean climate, showcasing its resilience and unique character.
Wines from Zakynthino are typically light to medium-bodied, with bright acidity and flavors of citrus, green apple, and subtle herbal notes. Its delicate floral aromas and mineral undertones make it a delightful pairing for seafood, light pasta dishes, and fresh salads.
As an under-the-radar treasure of Greek viticulture, Zakynthino offers a taste of the island’s heritage and the innovative spirit of its winemakers.
See our collection of Zykanthino wines
Non-Greek Grapes
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon has been grown in Greece since the 1960’s and since then, many producers have come to love the varietal. As in the rest of Europe, Cabernet sauvignon produces deeply coloured wines with a vibrant nose and high tannins. When compared to Cabernets from other countries, most Greek versions will be more akin to those that have received more sun and are thus heavier and darker.
See our collection of Cabernet Sauvignon wines
Chardonnay
Chardonnay was first cultivated in Greece in the Attika region in the 1960s and the popular grape quickly spread across the country, especially to the north, where the grape thrives in the cooler climate of the mountainous regions. You will find both oaked and unoaked versions, as well as some more experimental versions like the Tatsis Orange Chardonnay, but generally, the Chardonnays of Greece have the rich fruitiness, acid and structure you know this classic by.
See our collection of Chardonnay wines
Cinsault
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Merlot
Arriving in Greece at the same time as Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, the Merlot grape is used to make wines similar in style to the wines found in Bordeaux. Though some vintners create the classic Cabernet/Merlot wines, many prefer to mix Merlot with the Xinomavro grape, which can rein in the heavy tannins and adds notes of tomato, spice and black fruit.
See our collection of Merlot wines
Syrah
Though a relatively new addition to the vineyards of Greece, the Syrah varietal has quickly become a favourite for its ability to shore up the local grape varietals, giving them structure, tannins and body, but still letting the locals play first violin. Furthermore, the grape thrives in both the warmer regions of Greece and the colder north, creating wines dominated by black fruits, leather and spices.
See our collection of Syrah wines