Greece’s viticultural history is one of the oldest and most storied in the world, tracing back over 4,000 years to ancient civilizations that revered wine as a gift from the gods. The country’s unique geography, with its mountainous terrain, varied microclimates, and diverse soil types, has fostered an incredible variety of indigenous grape varietals. These native grapes, such as Assyrtiko (Ah-SEER-tee-co), Xinomavro (SeeNOma-VRO), and Agiorgitiko (AYE-yor-YEE-tee-ko), are the backbone of Greece’s vibrant wine industry. Each region boasts its own signature varietals that reflect the local terroir, from the mineral-rich wines of Santorini’s volcanic soils to the robust reds of Naoussa in Macedonia. Recent decades have seen a revival of interest in ancient varietals, with modern winemakers blending traditional techniques with contemporary practices to produce exceptional quality and character wines. This rich history and diversity make Greek wines unique, offering wine enthusiasts a taste of the country’s cultural heritage and natural beauty in every glass.
The top 10 most common grape varietals used for wine production in Greece are:
| Varietal Name | Region | Type | What you can expect |
| Agiorgitiko (AYE-yor-YEE-tee-ko) | Nemea (Peloponnese) | Red | Known for its versatility, Agiorgitiko can produce a wide range of wine styles, from rich, full-bodied reds to lighter, fruitier versions. |
| Liatiko | Crete | Red | Used to produce both dry and sweet wines, Liatiko is known for its light color and distinctive floral and spice notes. |
| Mavrodaphne (mav-roh-DAFF-nee) | Patras (Peloponnese), Ionian Islands | Red | Traditionally used for sweet, fortified wines, Mavrodaphne is also being explored for dry wine production. |
| Xinomavro (SeeNOma-VRO) | Naoussa, Amyntaio, Goumenissa (Macedonia) | Red | Often compared to Nebbiolo, Xinomavro produces wines with high tannins, acidity, and potential for aging. |
| Assyrtiko (Ah-SEER-tee-co) | Santorini, Macedonia, and other Aegean islands | White | Known for its high acidity and mineral character, Assyrtiko is often associated with the volcanic soils of Santorini. |
| Malagousia | Macedonia, Thessaly | White | Resurrected from near extinction, Malagousia is prized for its aromatic intensity and flavors of exotic fruits and herbs. |
| Moschofilero (Mow-sko-FEEL-err-oh) | Mantinia (Peloponnese) | White with pink/grey skins | Aromatic with floral and citrus notes, Moschofilero is often used to produce fresh, lively wines. |
| Roditis (R-AA-D-AH-T-IY-Z) | Patras (Peloponnese), Thessaly, Macedonia | White | Often used in the production of the traditional Retsina wine, Roditis is valued for its high yields and versatility. |
| Savvatiano | Attica, Central Greece | White | Another key grape in Retsina production, Savvatiano is known for its resilience to drought and heat. |
| Vidiano | Crete | White | Vidiano offers rich, complex flavors and aromas, often compared to Viognier. |
Each of these varietals represents Greek wine’s diverse and unique character, contributing to the country’s rich winemaking heritage.
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