GREEK WINE TOURISM DESTINATIONS
Now that autumn has set in for good, the landscapes of the Greek countryside are "dressing" in their warm, golden, and terracotta hues. On the occasion of World Wine Tourism Day, which just passed, the winter wine tourism season has officially begun. You have the absolute perfect excuse to hit the road for an escape to the country's wineries!
This time of year, a general calm settles over the vineyards, as the grape harvest in Greece is almost complete. Depending on the region and the variety, harvesting finished a few weeks ago in most wine regions. In practice, this means a creative frenzy is kicking off inside the wineries, with tanks and barrels "boiling" with new fermentations.
The atmosphere is truly unique, almost mystical. The air is rich with the scent of fresh must and ripe grapes, while tastings of the new vintage straight from the tanks are already underway. If you visit now, you might just get a first taste! And if you are lucky, you might discover rare bottle releases or aged labels hidden gems you will hardly find anywhere outside the winery’s own cellar.
Below are some of the country’s top visitable wineries that brilliantly combine warm hospitality, breathtaking scenery, and delightful wines:
1.Thymiopoulos Vineyards (Trilofos, Naoussa)
Why go: If there is one place in Greece where autumn looks straight out of a painting, it’s Naoussa. The slopes of Mount Vermio display every shade of autumn, while the cool breeze hits the exact right temperature for cozy clothes and a glass—or bottle—of Xinomavro!
Trilofos is home to the winery of Apostolos Thymiopoulos, who redefined Xinomavro, elevated it, and managed to serve it in world-renowned restaurants around the globe. His winery stands as a modern beacon for Greek wine. The moment you step foot inside, you instantly feel its authenticity, organic and biodynamic philosophy, and deep respect for nature. Its new-age minimal aesthetic creates a tranquil environment that makes you want to linger for hours, chatting with Apostolos about the vineyard and the impact of biodiversity on it.
What to try: The iconic Gi kai Ouranos (Earth & Sky), which has captured hearts both locally and internationally, and Vrana Petra if you are seeking a world-class Xinomavro with Burgundian finesse.
2.Ktima Kir-Yianni (Giannakochori, Naoussa)
Why go: If Naoussa is the queen of autumn, Ktima Kir-Yianni in Yiannakochori is its palace! And right now, here is the ultimate reason to plan a trip: International Xinomavro Day on November 1st kicked things off, turning the estate into the ultimate destination for all devoted "Xinomavro fans" and wine lovers alike!
The entire month of November there is one big celebration dedicated to our favorite variety. The winery constantly creates endless reasons and events to draw you in. Picture yourself walking through the vineyards with the Vermio mountain range in the background, breathing in the fresh mountain air that naturally works up an appetite. The logical next stop is the warm dining room filled with delicious aromas from the superb kitchen team, crafting dishes perfectly paired with the estate's labels. It is your chance to discover how the variety evolves from year to year, as well as the distinct differences between the estate’s two great terroirs: Naoussa and Amyndeon!
What to try: The ultimate, timeless Ramnista, but be sure to ask if there are any older vintages or experimental bottlings available.
3.Domaine Skouras (Malandreni, Nemea)
Why go: Nemea in autumn means an endless, deep-red canvas of vines stretching as far as the eye can see. Just a short drive from Athens, the homeland of Agiorgitiko makes for a perfect day trip.
When talking about Nemea, George Skouras automatically comes to mind—one of the country’s most charismatic, pioneering, and inspiring winemakers. The winery in Malandreni is a warm, welcoming space with striking architecture where the team's hospitality instantly makes you feel right at home. A guided tour through the impressive barrel cellar followed by a tasting by the fireplace is a bucket-list experience.
What to try: Megas Oinos, a legendary wine featuring an explosive blend of Agiorgitiko and Cabernet Sauvignon; and Armyra, which easily rivals great white Burgundies. Ask to taste older vintages to discover how a seemingly everyday white wine evolves beautifully over time!
4.Katogi Averoff (Metsovo, Epirus)
Why go: Nothing beats the nature of Epirus in winter! It stands out as the ultimate autumn destination, with mist-shrouded and majestic Metsovo taking center stage. Imagine cobblestone alleys, the aroma of wood burning in fireplaces, the lush green slopes of the Pindus range, and, of course, high-altitude Greek vineyards!
Located at an altitude touching 1,000 meters is the historic Katogi Averoff. This is where, back in the 1950s, Evangelos Averoff planted the very first Cabernet Sauvignon vines in Greece. A visit here is a genuinely immersive experience: the tour of the atmospheric, darkened cellars among hundreds of oak barrels—complete with art projections and music—is unforgettable. The winery also features a beautiful, cozy hotel where you can stay.
What to try: Rossiu di Munte (Cabernet Sauvignon), a wine made to be enjoyed by the fireplace alongside local Metsovone cheese; and Rossiu di Munte (Vlachiko) for something rarer and more intriguing.
5.Ktima Gerovassiliou (Epanomi, Thessaloniki)
Why go: Located just a breath away from Thessaloniki in Epanomi, Domaine Gerovassiliou offers a holistic experience masterfully weaving wine and culture together. The vineyard is impeccably tended, featuring striking artworks scattered throughout the vines. At its center stands the renowned Gerovassiliou Wine Museum, housing a collection of rare corkscrews (one of the most important in the world!) and traditional viticulture tools that will leave you amazed.
A stroll through the vineyards and museum grounds concludes with a tasting overlooking the Thermaic Gulf. The hospitality of Vangelis Gerovassiliou and his team is simply exemplary!
What to try: The crisp and aromatic Gerovassiliou Malagousia—a variety that owes its very survival to Vangelis Gerovassiliou—and Avaton, a unique blend of Limnio, Mavroudi, and Mavrotragano. If you are lucky, you might even sample something special from his island project in Santorini!
6.Markou Vineyards (Peania, Attica)
Why go: Who says you have to travel to the ends of Greece for an authentic wine experience? Just minutes from central Athens, in the heart of the historic Mesogeia vineyard region, Peania offers a delicious escape from city life. Picture old, dry-farmed vines pruned in traditional bush-trained shapes, backed by a family tradition running uninterrupted since 1908!
Today, the 4th generation of Markou winemakers continues to make history. As one of the most modern wineries in the region, it seamlessly combines tradition with innovation—something you can experience firsthand during a tour of their impressive Wine Museum. Pay close attention to the rare 19th-century viticulture tools and old wine presses!
What to try: Markou Vineyards Savvatiano, the iconic indigenous variety of Attica in its most elegant and fresh version, followed by Phenomena Savvatiano to see how this grape transforms after aging in barrels!
The wines listed above are just a glimpse of what you can taste at each winery. Every estate crafts custom tasting packages with multiple options, and their hospitality teams excel at pairings—so their guidance is invaluable. Don't hesitate to ask them to lead the way!
Happy autumn travels, we envy you, cheers!
Christina Tsogka
Botilia's Wine Specialist
