C25 - Greece Flashcards
Which three Greek grape varieties have received the most recognition on the international export market and which region are they linked to?
Xinomavro from Naoussa Agiorgitiko from Nemea Assyrtiko from Santorini
Describe the climate in Greece
Hot mediterranean; summers can reach over 30C
Cooled by altitude and in the coastal areas, by the sea
Winds in islands southeast of the mainland can be strong enough to destroy vines, but also have a cooling effect
Drought can be an issue, even in the wetter areas, but particularly in the eastern areas of the country
Why is the eastern part of Greece particularly susceptible to drought?
It is in the rain-shadow of the Pindos Oros mountains, where there is little water available for irrigation
How many grape varieties are native to Greece?
Over 200
What is special about Greece’s native grape varieties?
They are well adapted to survive in the arid, hot conditions found in Greece
What is the requirement regarding grape varieties, of most Greek PDO designations?
The use of native varieties
Where in Greece is Naoussa PDO?
In northern Greece, in the region of Macedonia
Describe the vineyards of Naoussa PDO
They are at altitudes of up to 400m and are noticeably cooler than surrounding areas
What are the varietal requirements for Naoussa PDO?
Must be red wines made exclusively from Xinomavro
With which more famous wine grape is Xinomavro most commonly compared?
Nebbiolo
Describe wines made from Xinomavro
High tannin
High acidity
Medium colour that fades to tawny with age
They lack fresh fruit aromas even in youth
Long-lived
Develop complex spice and earthy aromas with age
How are new winemakers playing with the traditional format of Xinomavro?
Some are more deeply coloured and less tannic
Some are aged in new oak
Where is Nemea?
In the north of the Peloponnese, close to the narrow strip of land that joins the peninsula to the rest of mainland Greece
What are the varietal requirements for Nemea PDO?
Must be red wines made exclusively from Agiorgitiko
Describe the vineyards of Nemea
They are spread over a wide range of altitudes from 230 to 900 metres