Rapsani - Regions
The Rapsani wine region, nestled in the Larissa district of Thessaly in northern Central Greece, is renowned for its unique wine production. This area is positioned on the southeastern slopes of Mount Olympus, providing an ideal microclimate for viticulture.
Key Features of Rapsani Wine Region:
Geography and Climate: Rapsani's vineyards benefit from the combination of altitude, iron-ships-rich soil, and the influence of the Aegean Sea. These factors create a microclimate that's perfect for cultivating grape varieties unique to the region.
Grape Varieties: The region is celebrated for its rich AOC (Appellation of Origin of High Quality) Rapsani red wines, made from three indigenous grape varieties: Xinomavro, Krassato, and Stavroto. These varieties are blended to produce wines that balance each other: Xinomavro contributes deep red color and tannins, Krassato adds flavor and moderates acidity, and Stavroto provides character and body to the wine.
Wine Characteristics: The Rapsani wines are known for their well-balanced nature. They typically have a deep red color, imparted by the Xinomavro grapes, and offer a unique flavor profile that combines the attributes of all three grape varieties.
History and Recognition: Wine production in Rapsani dates back to the 1800s and has been the main agricultural occupation of the region. Rapsani was one of the first Greek vine-growing districts to be recognized as an "Appellation of Origin of High Quality.”
The Rapsani wine region's combination of geographic and climatic conditions and its use of indigenous grape varieties contribute to the production of distinctive and high-quality wines. This region not only offers a unique viticultural experience but also a glimpse into the rich history and tradition of Greek winemaking.
Anchialos
Established as a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) zone in 1971, the vineyards in Anchialos are uniquely situated along the coastline of Pagasitikos Bay on hilly terrain, less than 200 meters above sea level.
The geographical features of Anchialos, including its proximity to the sea and its position on sloping hills, contribute to producing light and elegant V.Q.P.R.D. (Vin de Qualité Produit dans une Région Déterminée) Wines. These wines are characterized by their dryness and low alcohol content and are best enjoyed when young.
The primary grape variety in PDO Anchialos is Roditis, a rosé-colored grape, which must constitute at least 80% of the wine. Roditis is known for being common in several Greek regions, including Attica, Macedonia, Thessaly, and the Peloponnese. The Savatiano grape, prevalent in eastern Central Greece, is also grown in Anchialos, albeit to a lesser extent.
Anchialos wines are recognized for their unique profile, embodying the distinct terroir of the Magnissia district and Thessaly's broader wine-producing heritage.
Messenikola
The Messenikola wine region in Thessaly, Greece, is renowned for its PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) wines. Established as a PDO zone in 1994, it is one of the smallest in Greece, covering just 95 hectares. The vineyards are located near Lake Plastiras at altitudes up to 750 meters. The primary grape variety here is Mavro Messenikola, which produces dry red wines. The wines of Messenikola are often blended, typically combining Mavro Messenikola with international grapes like Syrah and Carignan, resulting in wines with extroverted aromas of red fruits and flowers, soft tannins, and a harmonious aftertaste. The region's vineyards are known for small-scale production, contributing to the uniqueness and rarity of these wines.
