Greece Flashcards
Explain greek wine laws
Protected designation of origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) as other EU countries
For export : PDO or use of Appellation d’origine de qualité supérieure (subcategory withing PDO)
For domestic use : a greek equivalent of PDO is used - Prostateomeni Onomasia Proelefsis
What are the grape varieties of Greece ?
- Over 200 native grape varieties
- White / Black international varieties but most PDO require native varieties
- Must thrive in hot and arid conditions
Widest international reputation : Xinomavro, Agiorgitiko, Assyrtiko
Name the regions of Greece and their associated main grape varieties
Naoussa PDO - Xinomavro
Nemea PDO - Agiorgitiko
Santorini PDO - Assyrtiko
Name the PDO wines of Greece
Naoussa PDO
Nemea PDO
Santorini PDO
What is the climate of Greece ?
Hot mediterranean
Reach well over 30° during the summer
What are the factors influencing climate in the vineyard in Greece ?
- Coastal areas tend to be moderated by the sea
- Altitude and wind have a cooling effect (most of best vineyards are in coolest areas)
What are the climate hazards in Greece ?
- Rainfall varies, but even in the wetter areas in the west, the lack of rain can cause water stress
- Drought is a particular concern on the eastern side, which lies in the rain shadow of the moutains.
- Strong winds in the islands can damage unprotected vineyards
What are the seas surrounding Greece ?
Ionian Sea (west)
Mediterranean Sea (south)
Aegean Sea (east)
In which sea lies Santorini ?
Aegean Sea
In which region is Naoussa PDO ?
Where is it situated ?
Macedonia (region)
North of Greece
Near the boarder of Macedonia (Country)
Macedonia is the region of which PDO ?
NAOUSSA PDO
In which region is Nemea PDO ?
Where is it situated ?
Peloponnese
South West, near the narrow strip of land
Peloponnese is the region of which PDO?
Nemea PDO
Greece shares borders with which countries ?
From West to East
Albania, Macedonia, Bulgary, Turkey
Naoussa PDO lies in the rain shadow of which mountain?
Pindos Oros
Explain Naoussa PDO region
Describe grape variety
- Naoussa PDO is in northern Greece, in Macedonia
- Lied in the rain shadow of Pindos Oros
- At 400M altitude, noticebly cooler than surrounding area
Xinomavro
- Only grape permitted for PDO
- Black grape often compared to Nebbiolo
- Characteristics: High tannins, High acidity, Lack fresh fruit aromas, Medium coloured that fades to tawny
- Ageing: long-lived, develops spice and earthy aromas
- Winemaking: different styles, sometimes deeply coloured and less tannic. Some age in new oak.
Explain Nemea PDO region
Describe grape variety
- Nemao PDO is in Peloponnese region in Greece
- Vineyards in altitudes from 230 to 900m (best in the middle range)
Agiorgitiko
- Only grape permitted for PDO
- Black grape variety
- From lower slopes : Jammy, Early Consumption
- From higher slopes : Higher acidity, less fine tannins, add freshness to blend or suited for rosé
- Best wine - mid slopes: Deep ruby, high smooth tannins, low to moderate acidity, red fruits, spices, affinity for new oak, age well
Explain Santorini PDO region
Describe grape variety
- Windswept Island in north-east greece
- Volcanic soil
- Vine permanent wood is trained to form basket and protect fruits
- PDO covers dry and sweet tyles
Assyrtiko
- Only grape permitted for PDO
- White grape variety
- Dry wines : perfumed aromas, concentrated flavours, high acidity, ripe citrus, stone fruit
- Sweet wine called Vinsanto : Late-harvested grapes sundried up to 14 days. Aged in oak barrels for min 2 years. Luscious, balanced with high acidity Oxidative characteres (caramel, nuts)
