Greece is a country abounding with history and tradition. Whether it is the Acropolis in Athens, its Mediterranean fare, or the historic significance of the events that happened on its shores, such as being the cradle of the first Summer Olympics in Athens in 1896, tourists who do choose to explore Greece will be satisfied with the myriad of attractions and activities the place can offer. This is why it is one of the most popular destinations in the world. Yet there is one aspect of Greek life that is often forgotten – and this is the fact that Greeks are great lovers of wine. They are also one of the top winemakers and wine suppliers in the world today. A sad matter is that the wonderful and great-tasting wines from Greece are not patronized, and more often than not, they are overlooked.

An exceptional advantage that Greek wine has over other more well-known wines in the market nowadays is the vast range it offers. There are elegant vintages, as well as first-rate novel wines. Greece has been able to produce elegant and smooth wines that are unique to the country, and one reason for this is that Greece nurtures about 300 types of wine grapes. The Greeks’ love affair with wine is as ancient as the Greek isles. However, war and political unrest have hindered the development and production of wine. By the 1970’s, the bulk of Greek wines were produced via a factory business which mass produced Greece’s famous retsina wine. Most locals prefer this wine, but the hint of resin taste was not thoroughly appreciated by others. However, the wine’s popularity in Greek tavernas gradually extended the taste of the retsina over to tourists. Ever since wine-making became a manufacturing business, the Greek wine industry thrived and prospered, generating first-rate vintages that are like those enjoyed by the gods of Ancient Greece.

Chardonnays and Cabernet Sauvignon wines are two of the most recognized and often replicated wines in the world. The Greeks, however, have chosen to grow their own unique grapes instead of following or copying other wines. In Greece, there are a number of rare grapes that only grow in specific regions and these are used by winemakers to create distinctive vintages only found in Greece; thereby, broadening the variety of wines in today’s global market. The Ksinomavro or Xinomavro grape is recognized by avid winemakers as the best Greek grape. Naoussa is the only place where this grape grows. It is said that the bitter coldness of the mountain air here facilitates to seal in the unique flavor of the grape. This grape is also called ‘acid black’ and it has a spiced cherry flavor that gets better with age. It is said that this red wine tastes best after being allowed to age for 20 or more years.

The Peloponnese region also boasts of the Moschofilero, a white grape with a spicy flavor. Wines from these grapes are best as aperitifs or as partners for slightly fiery seafood fares. Another white wine is from the Lagorthi, a rare grape which has a hint of lime taste, and there is also the Malagousia which has a peachy flavor. The Greeks produce fabulously fruity, full-bodied and crisp white wines. Red wine, nevertheless, is still a favorite in Greece and there are a number of varieties available. Nemean reds are renowned for being quite light and fresh at one end and plumy and spicy on the other depending on their age. Since this wine gets really better with age, you will be assured of tasting a range of flavors of piquant, woodsy and refreshing flavors. To maximize the tastes and flavors of slightly piquant red wines or crisp and refreshing white wines, ask as to the finest Greek wine that will best accompany a Greek dish.

Greek wines are gaining fame and esteem around the world. In American states where there are blossoming Greek populations, like New York and Chicago, the demand for Greek wines has also grown. Still, it is best to visit the country itself if you want to savor some of the world’s finest wines while enjoying the views of charming vineyards. Greece will offer you that and more.