Wineries

Neméa and Wine Country

Neméa, at least in Southern Greece, is considered the crown jewel of the new wine industry. Greece is justifiably proud of the achievements that have been made there, not least of which was exploiting the potential of the Agiorgítko grape, a potential not limited only to Nemea, nor even to Greece exclusively. There is tremendous agreement that no matter what its potential may be elsewhere, the Agiorgitiko is perfectly adapted to Nemea, especially to the middle of three zones of different elevations, the so-called 'semi-mountainous' zone, at elevations of between 450 and 650 meters, where the overlap of ideal conditions result in good fruit, acidity, body and color that meet the current high expectations for serious wine in world markets.
 
The Neméa region has a gentle beauty to which the abundance of vineyards only contributes, especially along the valley and slopes of Ancient Neméa. An important archaeological site there adds drama–and a historical context–to the already dramatic contrast between the red soil, green vine leaves and straw yellow blankets of wheat that cover resting vineyards.

The Wines of Nemea

According to archaeological excavations, wine was first produced in Nemea almost 3500 years ago. Nemea is one of the largest winemaking regions of Greece and produces some of its best wines. The prominent grape here is Ayoryitiko, one of the most noble of the Greek red grapes, which got its name from the town of Nemea originally called “Agios Georgios” or St. George. Ayoryitiko produces wines that stand out for their deep red color and remarkable aromatic complexity. Ayoryitiko’s soft tannins, combine with its balanced acidity can produce many different styles of wine, ranging from fresh aromatic reds to full-bodied, age-worthy reds. It also produces very pleasant aromatic rosé wines.

The Nemea wine-growing region can roughly be divided into three zones according to the altitude of the vineyards. At the lowest altitudes, in the valley of Nemea (250m-450m) light reds and dessert wines are produced. In the next zone (450m-650m) some of the best age-worthy reds are produced and at the highest altitudes, up to 900m, aromatic roses and fresh reds are made. Some of Greece’s most well known wineries are located in Nemea and many are worth taking the time to visit.