Greece

Question 1

Explain greek wine laws

Answer 1

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

Question 2

What are the grape varieties of Greece ?

Answer 2

• 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

Question 3

Name the regions of Greece and their associated main grape varieties

Answer 3

Naoussa PDO - Xinomavro
Nemea PDO - Agiorgitiko
Santorini PDO - Assyrtiko

Question 4

Name the PDO wines of Greece

Answer 4

Naoussa PDO
Nemea PDO
Santorini PDO

Question 5

What is the climate of Greece ?

Answer 5

Hot mediterranean

Reach well over 30° during the summer

Question 6

What are the factors influencing climate in the vineyard in Greece ?

Answer 6

• Coastal areas tend to be moderated by the sea
• Altitude and wind have a cooling effect (most of best vineyards are in coolest areas)

Question 7

What are the climate hazards in Greece ?

Answer 7

• 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

Question 8

What are the seas surrounding Greece ?

Answer 8

Ionian Sea (west)
Mediterranean Sea (south)
Aegean Sea (east)

Question 9

In which sea lies Santorini ?

Answer 9

Aegean Sea

Question 10

In which region is Naoussa PDO ?
Where is it situated ?

Answer 10

Macedonia (region)
North of Greece
Near the boarder of Macedonia (Country)

Question 11

Macedonia is the region of which PDO ?

Answer 11

NAOUSSA PDO

Question 12

In which region is Nemea PDO ?
Where is it situated ?

Answer 12

Peloponnese
South West, near the narrow strip of land

Question 13

Peloponnese is the region of which PDO?

Answer 13

Nemea PDO

Question 14

Greece shares borders with which countries ?

Answer 14

From West to East
Albania, Macedonia, Bulgary, Turkey

Question 15

Naoussa PDO lies in the rain shadow of which mountain?

Answer 15

Pindos Oros

Question 16

Explain Naoussa PDO region
Describe grape variety

Answer 16

• 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.

Question 17

Explain Nemea PDO region
Describe grape variety

Answer 17

• 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

Question 18

Explain Santorini PDO region
Describe grape variety

Answer 18

• 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)