The grape varieties of Attica

Author: Eleni Kefalopoulou - Wine Journalist

Thanks to its climate and the variety of soils in the area, Attica is host to a wide range of indigenous and foreign varieties in addition to Savatiano. Roditis with its delicate flavours which is blended with Savatiano to add interest, and Malagouzia which has maintained its leading position in the last decade thanks to its exceptional flavours and rich taste. Assyrtiko is another a variety that does well in the region. The most commonly found red indigenous variety is Agiorgitiko with its fruity, easy to drink red wines.
After the destruction wrought by phylloxera, the character of the Attica vineyards changed. The fashion for international varieties means that Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Grenache Rouge all have a strong presence in the area. The climate of Athens gives these international varieties a new twist, and they produce fragrant, spicy wines with a fresher character as well as impressive older rich wines. Like other produce which hails from the Attica soil, they are rich in exciting flavours. You will only need a glass – nature takes care of the rest…