It’s summertime and what better way to enjoy the outdoors than a picnic and a visit to a winery. We recently visited the stunning Kir-Yianni winery in one of Greece’s cool climate wine regions, and we weren’t disappointed!

The atmosphere was beautiful and inviting, with impeccable landscaping, and impressive rows of vineyards. We spent some time wandering through the sprawling facility where we saw some of the most fascinating wine-making operations in Greece. We indulged in a spectacular selection of wines from various wineries at the tasting room.

After the tasting room, we decided to have a picnic on the lawn. The grass was covered in beautiful flowers and plants, and it was quite pleasant. We admired the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and rolling hills while savoring bites of traditional Greek mezze. The combination of food, wine, and scenery was truly extraordinary.

To end our day, we popped a bottle of sparkling rose (which we tasted at the tasting room) and indulged in some of the local delicacies, like freshly baked feta pies and grilled halloumi. What a fantastic and memorable experience!

If you’re ever in the area, make sure to pay a visit to the beautiful Kir-Yianni winery. You won’t be disappointed! Warmth and dryness amid the sweeping blue of the ocean—that’s the image of the Greek wine industry that’s taken root in the American imagination. But a closer look reveals the country’s diverse topography of islands, plains, valleys, and mountains that are home to winemaking experiences of a different type—cool-climate winemaking in the hinterlands that will shape the course of the Greek wine industry in the future. The wine industry is increasingly turning towards cool-climate viticulture as a way to make wines that have nuanced flavors, that are light and balanced in taste, and that are lower in alcohol content. That’s why cool climates matter when making wine.

Grapes grown in cooler areas are able to ripen slowly and retain their natural acidity, which helps to create wines with freshness, complexity, and longevity. This is in contrast to the riper wines with higher alcohol levels and lower acidity that were more popular in the past.

Cooler climates also have the benefit of avoiding potential over-ripeness, as they often experience cooler nights which helps to keep the grapes in check and from becoming overly ripe. This ensures more even ripening and results in wines that have more balanced aromatics and flavors.

Overall, cooler climates are favored for making wines that are restrained, elegant, and have nuanced and delicate aromas and flavors. This is why winemakers are increasingly turning to cooler climates as a way to produce better-quality wines. Climate change is creating a big dilemma in the world of wine, as winemakers search for cooler sites for grape growing – while regions previously known for distinctive wine styles get too hot or mild to make certain wines.

In regions like Burgundy or Bourgogne, historically known for producing delicate, thin-skinned Pinot Noir grapes, the traditional growing cycle is set to experience an increasing shift due to rising temperatures and milder winters. This is forcing winemakers to look for colder sites to produce their grapes, making it more challenging to deliver the same quality, depth and flavor to the wines sourced from these regions.

These changes in climate present significant challenges to winemakers, who now have to grow the grapes in different locations – and make subtle adjustments to their processes – if they wish to preserve their wine style and reputation. In addition, winemakers must also determine if certain climate-resilient varietals would yield a product that’s equal to what the region is known for.

The struggle that winemakers face could have serious, long-term consequences on the quality and variety of wines we are able to enjoy. As the climate continues to change, we are closely following the progress of winemakers who are transplating their vineyards and experimenting with different grapes in response. In the world of wine, viticulturalists (winemakers who specialize in growing grapes) have found that varieties of the Vitis vinifera, or grape vine, consistently produce the finest wines. These grape vines, which are native to the Northern Hemisphere, find their ideal climatic conditions in the temperate regions lying between 30° and 50° latitudes. Hotter and cooler climates can prove unfavorable for growing grapes that will be used for fine wine. To that end, vintners locate vineyards in the narrow Goldilocks range, where the conditions are “just right” for grape vines. Kir-Yianni, located in the Amyndeon appellation in Northwestern Greece, produces some of the most acclaimed and delicious wines in the country. The area provides an unmatched view of the Macedonian Plain, with rolling hills and vineyards blanketed in bright green foliage that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Kir-Yianni offers a unique view of the Amyndeon area from its hilltop perches. Standing high above the plain, it offers incredible views of the surrounding hills and valleys, vineyards, and villages. Visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of the highlands and the deep mesmerizing greens of the valleys. They can look out over the numerous vineyards, marveling over the many varieties of grapes growing and ripening in the sun. There are also many small villages dotting the plain, filled with people that have lived in the area for centuries.

The experience of Kir-Yianni is unique and very special, as it offers an exceptional view of the Amyndeon appellation. It’s an excellent way to appreciate one of the best wine producing regions in all of Greece, with a depth and range of scenery that can’t be experienced anywhere else. Whether it’s a peaceful stroll on a hilltop or a relaxing afternoon of wine tasting, visitors can appreciate the beauty and history of the region as seen from Kir-Yianni. Elevation plays a role in the temperature of a locale. Hilltop vineyards can bask in cooler temperatures when compared to the fruit that grows on the valley floor. Other key elements that contribute to the ambient heat are the amount of precipitation, the stickiness of the humidity, and the influence of winds and clouds on the air temperature. The temperature itself easily fluctuates from day to night, a process that is referred to as diurnal range. Greece is emerging as an ideal climate for cooler climate winemaking. With its mountainous terrain covering 85 percent of the Peloponnese Peninsula, and the northern regions of Amyndeon in Macedonia, Epirus, and Thessaly, this part of the world offers a unique opportunity for wine producers looking to benefit from the cooler temperatures.

As global warming and changing weather patterns continue to affect our planet, the cooler climate in these areas of Greece enables grape growers to produce dynamic red wines and energizing white wines. Grapes grown in cooler climates tend to maintain their acidity and structure, creating subtle yet intense flavors. For wine enthusiasts, these regional offerings provide a unique and diverse array of tastes.

Greece offers ideal growing conditions for several grape varieties such as Xinomavro, a locally-grown red varietal that is increasingly popular on the international stage for its rustic, earthy flavors. Greece is also known for producing Agiorgitiko, a red grape varietal grown primarily in the Peloponnese, and Moschofilero, a white grape variety which is lightly floral and dry.

The cooler climate of Greece provides wine growers with a fantastic opportunity to produce unique and flavorful wines that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. As temperatures continue to rise, these regions will continue to offer a respite for winemakers seeking cooler climates and the one-of-a-kind flavors it produces. In Greece, vineyard owners have long found success by planting grape varieties that suit the climate. For white wine, Assyrtiko, Malagousia, and Roditis all do particularly well, while Limnio and Xinomavro are the go-to choices for red wines. This careful selection of grape varieties has become the cornerstone of Greek winemaking today. Do you appreciate wines that are known for having a balanced acidity and flavor profile that helps them to age? If so, then cool-climate wines from some of the world’s best regions may be the perfect choice for you.

Cool-climate wines are known for the distinct crisp, vibrant acidity that enhances both the clarity and flavor of the wine. White wines tend to show citrus, mineral and herbal notes, while red wines will bring forth bright red fruits, earthiness and delicious spice flavors.

The cooler climates from which these wines originate check the growth of the vines, and encourage them to produce smaller berries with more intense flavors.

So whether you reach for a crisp white such as a cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc or a vibrant red, like a Pinot Noir or Grenache, you can be sure that you are getting a quality wine that will speak of its subtleness and elegance.

Take it from those who appreciate the nuances of refreshing acidity and bright fruit flavors that cool climate wines are one of the best choices when you are looking for an unforgettable sipping experience. There’s nothing like an outdoor picnic with a bottle of Domaine Skouras rosé! Last weekend, I gathered some friends and headed to the beach for a sunny afternoon of swimming and lounging in the sun. We packed a hefty spread of sandwiches, salads, platters of charcuterie, grilled vegetables and fresh berries for dessert.

To add to the occasion, we cracked open a chilled bottle of Domaine Skouras rosé that was perfectly suited for an outdoor party. Its bright and crisp taste was a delightful contrast to the warm sun and fresh ocean breeze. The fruity notes of melon, lime and mango were a great accompaniment to our picnic feast, and the dry finish was a nice balance in between pickles, pickled vegetables and zesty salads.

It was a great afternoon with a refreshing rosé – the ideal way to enjoy an afternoon in the sun! I’m already looking forward to my next picnic. Nemea PDO and the Peloponnese Peninsula: Domaine Skouras is a Favorite

Nestled among a group of favored wine-producing regions on the Peloponnese Peninsula in Peloponnese PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) is Domaine Skouras. The area itself is not exactly considered “cool climate” – but, some of its high-elevation vineyards offer this label. To further emphasize this point, the area might even get snowfall in the winter months.

Domaine Skouras produces many stunning red and white wines from the Nemea PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) region, including Agiorgitiko (reds) and Moschofilero (whites). These wines are light and fruity, but still boast fullness and complexity.

The area around Domaine Skouras allows for a lot of varietal diversity. Other red wines produced include Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Lefki. And, white varieties include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, Assyrtiko, and Moschofilero.

The climate offers plenty of sunshine, plus cool nights with onshore wind to provide ideal conditions for grape maturation. The sheltering of the nearby mountains helps shield rain and frost. Meanwhile, the soils are a particulate limestone that drains well.

All these factors come together to offer an ideal environment for grapevines to thrive, and make Domaine Skouras a cherished spot on the map. It’s no surprise that the winery’s wines are so loved by oenophiles around the world. When it comes to making great wines, the climate and topography of the Peloponnese have been incredibly useful. The mountains in the region are beneficial for several reasons – winemakers can plant at impressive altitudes and take full advantage of the cooler temperatures while the constant ventilation from the sea keeps the region’s air fresher, making it harder for diseases to spread.

Dimitris Skouras, winemaker from Domaine Skouras explains, “The mountains here allow winemakers to plant at higher altitudes and take advantage of the lower temperatures. Also, because the sea surrounds the Peloponnese, constant airflow through the region lowers the temperature and the risk of diseases.”

The low temperatures and fresh air that the area provides create the perfect climate for cultivating the right type of grapes for a variety of different wines. This means that winemakers can achieve a high quality of wine while still managing to keep the costs down. In addition, the air from the sea also helps to minimize the potential for mold growth and other issues that can ruin a harvest.

Ultimately, the Peloponnese is an ideal area for winemakers as the climate allows for the production of exceptional wines without having to use excessive amounts of resources. Thanks to the mountains and the surrounding sea, the region allows for farmers to produce outstanding wines in an environment that is both sustainable and safe. Agiorgitiko: Know Your Greek Wines

It’s time to become acquainted with one of the key players in Greece’s wine scene: Agiorgitiko. This red grape variety, celebrated for its use in producing Nemea PDO wines, can be found in a range of styles and expressions.

Among Agiorgitiko’s many expressions, the best-known is the dry and medium-bodied wine it creates. This bottle typically has balanced acidity and ripe tannins giving it capacity for aging, and appears as a bright red in the glass. The wine carries aromas of black and red berries followed by a hint of baking spice.

Wine with Agiorgitiko at its base can range from dry to sweet and everything in between. Whether it be a semi-sweet light-bodied wine best suited for early evenings, or a rich tannic dry expression best saved for the dinner table, Agiorgitiko is popular for many reasons.

Greece’s indigenous grapes are gradually becoming more widely available across the world, so there is no better time to explore the Agiorgitiko-based wines of Nemea PDO. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the complexity of these wines. So what are you waiting for? Let’s lift a glass (or two, or three) to the beauty of Agiorgitiko wine! The challenges of farming in a cooler climate can be an obstacle to the growth of grapes. During certain colder vintages, ripening of the grapes can slow or even stop, resulting in a lack of maturity. Though this situation is rare in Greece, it’s still possible in northern regions of the country.

Grower Pavlos Skouras explains, “Farming in a cooler climate is a problem during colder vintages. Ripening slows down, and sometimes grapes won’t reach the desired maturity. This is a rare phenomenon in Greece, but it does happen, typically in northern areas.”

As grapes need warmth during their maturation, this can lead to trouble in southern regions too. The delicacy of the climate is such that the slightest tweak in temperatures has the capacity to affect the cycle of ripening, leading to abnormal vintages, bad harvests, and droughts. This can have a long-lasting effect on the farms relying on the grapes.

Although cooler climates appear to offer certain advantages over hotter ones, the risks they bring must be taken into account before planting vines. The climate in many places may be far from ideal for grapes. Ultimately, this makes a cooler climate far from desirable for farming. Greece’s native Xinomavro grape grown at Alpha Estate in northern Greece is a versatile variety offering a deliciously eclectic range of wines. Found mainly on the slopes of the nearby Mount Vermion, Alpha Estate has managed to perfect the Xinomavro’s bold flavor characteristics, making it one of the most desirable grapes among winemakers and wine connoisseurs alike.

This red grape variety shows a lovely deep color and concentrated blackberry, raspberry, and cherry aromas, along with spicy and herbaceous notes. On the palate, the wine presents a full body with an excellent structure, full of juicy red fruits, and a mineral-tinged finish.

The Xinomavro wines from Alpha Estate often display an elegant and delicate structure with silky tannins and a balanced acidity, making them an ideal companion for seafood, poultry, pasta, and cheeses. High quality cellar-ages examples carry the hallmark characteristic of Xinomavro wines, displaying aromas of aged flowers, dried herbs, and licorice.

Alpha Estate has earned a reputation for making outstanding wines from the Xinomavro variety and continues to deliver flavor-packed wines from its amazing vineyards near Mount Vermion. This post will explore the remarkable vineyards of Alpha Estate in Macedonian PGI, Greece.

The unique soil, climate, and topography of the Macedonian PGI area in Greece has resulted in Alpha Estate producing some of the best wines in the country. The vineyards are located in the Amyndeon PDO, a region known for its excellent Xinomavro-based red wines.

The cool climate of the area—believed to be the chilliest in the whole of Greece—can be attributed to several aspects of the topography. The higher altitude of the vineyards and their location near a major mountain range allows for the cold temperatures typical of a continental climate to blanket the whole area.

Thanks to the special soil, cool climate, and the skilled and experienced vintners at Alpha Estate, this region is now one of the top destinations in Greece for high-quality Xinomavro wine. The team at the estate uses eco-friendly practices to cultivate their wines, and pays special attention to preserving the unique soil character of their vineyards for generations to come.

Alpha Estate wines are prized for their deep color, bright flavors, and rich tannins—all hallmarks of the Xinomavro grape. They are some of the most popular and sought-after wines in the country.

If you’re looking to enjoy a sunny Mediterranean getaway while indulging in some of the country’s finest wines, Amyndeon PDO—and the vineyards of Alpha Estate in particular—should be at the top of your list. Amyndeon is a beautiful mountain town nestled among spectacular lakes and breathtaking views.

At an altitude of 1,870 – 2,300 feet, Amyndeon provides residents and tourists alike with incredible scenery and a pleasant, temperate climate. For those who love to spend time outdoors, the view of the EmeraldLakeVegoritida and Lake Petron from the surrounding slopes will take your breath away.

The town is home to a range of activities, including fishing in the lakes or hiking in the nearby woods. If you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing getaway, Amyndeon is the perfect destination.

The quaint village of Amyndeon, surrounded by mountain lakes, is full of charm and character. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a permanent home, Amyndeon has something for everyone. Come see it for yourself – you won’t be disappointed! When it comes to the regulation of temperatures for growing vines in the vineyards, Alpha Estate’s winemaker, Angelos Iatridis, has a simple solution: cool breezes released by nearby lakes. During the intensive growing season, these breezes bring down the temperature surrounding the vineyards, providing a helpful relief to the vines. This natural, low-cost way of controlling temperatures is something that has been enabled by Alpha Estate’s consideration for nature and their willingness to find practical solutions on their own property and those of their neighbors.

At Alpha Estate, they understand the importance of the environment when it comes to healthy vine growth and harvest. The lakes in the area are a symbol of this strong knowledge of the effects of environment on the vines. From the cooler temperature it provides to the protection from evaporation that it offers, the lakes offer more than just a beautiful view—it’s a gateway to healthier and bigger harvests for Alpha Estate and its neighbors.

When you think of winemaking, it may not immediately involve a discussion of temperatures or environment; however, Angelos Iatridis understands the importance of both to reach the best possible results. Cool breezes released by nearby lakes is just the start of the exceptional techniques he takes advantage of to make sure that the wines of Alpha Estate are some of the best in the area. Tweet:
“The Eordea Plateau and nearby mountain ranges provide a microclimate for Amyndeon vineyards, but spring frost still threatens crops. Milder winters increase the risk.” #Amyndeon #Wine #Growers #SpringFrost Alpha Estate is producing excellent wines from the Florina PGI appellation in northwestern Greece. Their primary wine is a vibrant, aromatic white called Malagousia, which exhibits excellent acid retention. Joining the Malagousia are other white grapes, such as Assyrtiko and Sauvignon Blanc, which make great use of the climate’s cool temperatures. Florina PGI sits close to the borders of Bulgaria and Albania, and shares similar benefits and challenges to Amyndeon, the zone north of Florina. Eager winemakers have begun experimenting with other varietals including Lagorthai, Syrah, and Merlot, as they look to take advantage of the terroir of this unique area. Some say it won’t be too long until this area of Greece is considered among the top wine regions and starts producing some of the most exciting wines. Taking a trip to Macedonia is like stepping into a paradise of lakes, vineyards, and mountain vistas. Macedonia is renowned for its lakes and mountains. The most popular lake in the region is Lake Ohrid. Lake Ohrid is the deepest of Macedonia’s lakes and offers breathtaking views of the countryside. The lake is also home to several species of fish, making it a popular spot for anglers.

For a taste of the Mediterranean, head to Macedonia’s vineyards. Just outside the city of Ohrid, there are a number of vineyards in and around the region. These vineyards produce a variety of wines, and provide a great opportunity to sample some of the local produce.

For beautiful views of the Macedonian landscape, head up to Mount Vodno. The highest point in Macedonia, Mount Vodno offers a stunning and panoramic view of the region. The mountain is also a popular spot for hikers and climbers, as there are several trails that can be followed.

Macedonia’s combination of lakes, vineyards, and mountain vistas make it a great destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the Balkans. Whether you want to relax by one of the country’s picturesque lakes or explore the rugged terrain of the mountains, Macedonia has something to offer every type of traveler. So, when you’re in the mood for some sun, sand, and scenery, consider spending your next break exploring the beauty of Macedonia. Stellios Boutaris, winemaker and CEO for nearby Kir-Yianni, has been noticing drastic changes in the climate. Winters are much warmer than usual, and the summers are wild – long warm periods, heavy rainfall, and intense storms.

“It’s like the weather is all over the place,” says Boutaris. “The changes are making it difficult to predict how climate will fluctuate. It’s becoming harder and harder to plan for harvests.”

Boutaris is passionate about producing great wines, and he is concerned about how the changing climate will affect his business. “My industry is feeling the effects of this weather – and so is everyone else. I’m worried about what the future might hold.” After years of feeling the effects of climate change, producers in northern Greece are starting to take proactive steps to protect their future harvests. Yiannis Boutaris, a prominent winemaker in the region, is asking his peers to begin harvesting white grapes earlier, as well as making careful adjustments to the soil and vineyard management practices that may reduce the impact of hotter, drier years and boost the quality of the grapes.

Boutaris argues that rising temperatures bring challenges such as increased risk of disease and reduced cool-weather acidity—both of which can affect the taste and quality of the grapes. To help mitigate this, he suggests introducing practices like better rooting strategies, having an active leaf canopy to protect the grapes, and conserving water to information local microclimates.

In addition, Boutaris also believes that early harvesting of white grapes can help preserve the balancing flavors and aromas of the wine. Although, it can be a risk to start picking too soon and before the grapes are fully ripe. As a result, he also suggests that producers use methods for measuring the ripeness of grapes so they know the go time for harvesting.

By starting to gather grapes before the hotter months hit, producers can better protect the wine’s character. This will help keep acidity in check and also raise the pH balance—two important aspects for producing quality wines.

Overall, Boutaris advises grape and wine producers to take preparedness seriously when it comes to a changing climate. And, by using strategies to adjust their production procedures, they can find success in even the most unpredictable weather situations. Kir-Yianni, a winery in Greece, produces grapes from two regions: Amyndeon Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Imathia Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). While Amyndeon is known for its cold, harsh winter climate, Imathia’s temperatures are significantly cooler than the average temperatures of other Greek wine regions.

The production of grapes in Amyndeon PDO is limited to select high-quality varieties. This is thanks to its unique terroir, a combination of the specific slopes, land, climate, and soil in the area. These conditions create wines with a great depth of flavor, as well as strong aromas and intense acidity.

Meanwhile, the Imathia PGI region is ideal for producing wines with a more delicate balance between fruit and acidity. Influenced by its nearby forests, it has a milder climate and soil, which is more prone to wetness. This helps to keep acidity levels in check, while still providing the perfect environment for growing succulent grapes.

What makes Kir-Yianni stand out is that it manages to create wines that contain the very best of both regions. The intensely flavorful and aromatic vintages from Amyndeon, combined with the balanced acidity and fruit of Imathia, ensure that every bottle of Kir-Yianni has a unique and special character. As temperatures rise around the world, winemaking is becoming increasingly difficult. Lucky for winemakers, there are still places where cool climates allow the creation of premium wines with complex characters.

Winemaker Yiannis Boutaris of Amyndeon in Greece’s North Western Macedonia Region is one such winemaker who is taking advantage of this ideal climate. Boutaris, who is familiar with the effects of climate change in the area, says that the unique combination of altitude and local terroir in the region allow viticulture to exist long-term. This offers the potential to create terroir driven wines of the highest quality and character.

In order to take advantage of these special conditions and craft small-batch wines with distinct personalities, Boutaris has adapted his wine-making methodology to the climate. He focuses on hand harvesting, careful sorting, and minimal intervention in the winemaking process. Using only natural fermentation, Boutaris can capture the essence and character of the locale in his wines, making them a true expression of the terroir.

The results speak for themselves: each of Boutaris’ wines is complex, unique, and crafted with the utmost care. They offer the perfect balance between local character and modern sensibilities, making Amyndeon wines a benchmark of excellence.

By embracing the challenges and opportunities that the region offers, Yiannis Boutaris has created a remarkable wine-making experience. His wines tell the story of the Amyndeon region and its exceptional climate, conforming to the idea that cool climate winemaking presents endless possibilities. Angelos Iatridis, owner of the winery of “Alpha Estate”, spoke with Amyntaio some 180km west of Thessaloniki on December 5, 2019:

“We believe the antidote to climate change lies in cultivating Greek grape varieties. With rising temperatures due to global warming, traditional vines can no longer cope. This calls for more drought-resistant varieties that produce a richer, fuller-bodied flavor. Therefore we now focus on producing wines exclusively from Greek grapes.

The native varieties are better suited to dealing with the changing environment. They don’t require as much water and the resulting wines are extraordinary. They’re bolder, more intense and pair well with contemporary delicacies. This gives us, Greek winemakers the opportunity to produce higher quality wines, while still being mindful of the environment.

We are passionate about our work and we take great pride in producing exclusively Greek wines. The landscape is changing and we believe that this will help us to remain at the forefront of the wine industry.” Iatridis believes that Amyndeon has a bright future in terms of wine-making in Greece. He sees the cooler climate of Amyndeon as a great asset as the world continues to feel the impact of climate change. The cooler climate, he argues, can act as a buffer to the effects of extreme weather and ultimately help the winemaking industry to thrive. If you’re a fan of Greek wines and want to support cool-climate wineries, Diamond Wine Importers is your go-to. From PGI Peloponnese to PDO Nemea, PGI Macedonia, PGI Florina, PGI Imathia, and PDO Amyndeon, you can get all the best varieties of Greek wines you crave. Plus, Diamond Wine Importers will deliver them straight to your door, so you don’t even need to leave the house to enjoy them. So, why not indulge in some Greek winery goodness and support the best wineries in Greece?