What is the most widely planted red grape variety in Greece?

The most widely planted red grape variety in Greece is Agiorgitiko. It is an indigenous Greek wine grape traditionally associated with Nemea in the northeastern Peloponnese, but it is also cultivated in Attica, Macedonia, and Epirus.

Agiorgitiko is unusually versatile. Depending on vineyard altitude, soil, harvest timing, and winemaking, it can produce fresh rosé, light-bodied fruity reds, or deeply colored, tannic wines suitable for aging. Its flavors commonly include plum, cherry, spice, and other ripe red-fruit notes.

Nemea is especially important because Agiorgitiko is the only permitted grape for the region’s red Protected Designation of Origin wines. The variety is also known by names including Aghiorghitiko, Mavro Nemeas, and St. George. A common mix-up is Xinomavro, another major Greek red grape; Xinomavro is strongly linked with Naousa and northern Greece, but Agiorgitiko has the larger national planting area.