The Wine Regions of the Mediterranean
Located along the western coast of Europe, the Mediterranean wine region has long been a major wine producing area. It is a unique area of the world because the Mediterranean is located in a mountainous region that makes it ideal for growing grapes. This climate ensures the grapes ripen sufficiently and provides a cooling influence that balances the acidity in the grapes.
The Mediterranean has a rich history and is home to some of the oldest grape varieties in the world. While the area has been inhabited since pre-Roman times, the first records of wine production date back to the Copper Age pots found in Sicilian caves. Winemaking was an important part of life in Europe. After the Romans defeated the Greeks, wine became a popular beverage, which was traded across the Mediterranean. This led to the development of important maritime trading posts, which produced wine as a major product. After the Moslem invasions, commercial activity in traditional wine producing areas was halted.
The Mediterranean region includes many wine producing areas owned by small, dedicated producers. These wineries grow local varietals, blending native grapes with other grapes to create the unique wines that are renowned throughout the world.
The Kalamata peninsula is one of the largest wine growing areas in Greece. It is located south of Athens and is known for producing some of the best wines in the country. The area is also famous for its delicious purple Kalamata olives. The peninsula is famous for its red wines, but it also produces some of the country’s best whites. The local reds include Eftvos, Agiorgitiko Papaioannou and Rapsani Old Vines.
Crete is a beautiful island in the southern Mediterranean Sea, which is surrounded by rugged terrain that is ideal for agriculture. It also boasts an ancient Minoan heritage. It is home to the oldest surviving winery in the world, which is located in the city of Rethymnon. The wines produced on the island are alluring and transport the taster back in time.
The island of Crete is one of the most famous wine producing areas in the Mediterranean. It has been home to wine for more than 5000 years, and the wine on the island is famous for its richness and power. The island is also famous for its wild landscape, which makes the island ideal for growing grapes. In addition to its red wines, Crete produces white wines, such as Assyrtiko, which are especially popular on the island.
Northern Greece is home to high elevation vineyards that produce full-bodied tannic wines. The region’s climate is cooler than other regions in Greece, making it ideal for growing grapes. It is also away from the whitewashed buildings and sandy beaches that are characteristic of many areas of Greece.
The Greek wine industry has come a long way in recent years. Today, the country leads the international wine market. The Greek wine industry is also expanding to offer more varieties of grapes.
