Attica and Central Greece: A Wine Lover’s Paradise
Greece’s wine-making tradition spans millennia, with Attica and Central Greece at its heart. This region offers a unique blend of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and world-class wines. From the bustling streets of Athens to the serene vineyards of Thebes, wine enthusiasts and casual travelers alike will find plenty to savor.
Towns and Villages
Athens
As the capital of Greece, Athens serves as the perfect starting point for your wine journey. The city boasts a vibrant wine scene with numerous wine bars and restaurants showcasing local vintages.
Thebes
Located in Central Greece, Thebes is renowned for its rich history and excellent wines. The town is surrounded by picturesque vineyards and offers several tasting opportunities.
Markopoulo
This charming town in East Attica is famous for its Savatiano grapes. Many local wineries offer tours and tastings, providing insight into traditional winemaking methods.
Wine Producers
Domaine Papagiannakos
Located in Markopoulo, this family-owned winery specializes in Savatiano wines. Their modern, bioclimatic winery offers tours and tastings by appointment.
Mylonas Winery
Situated in Keratea, Attica, Mylonas Winery produces high-quality wines from indigenous grape varieties. Their innovative approach to winemaking has garnered international recognition.
Domaine Hatzimichalis
This esteemed winery in Atalanti, Central Greece, offers a range of wines from both local and international grape varieties. Their estate provides stunning views of Mount Parnassus.
Accommodations
Athens
- Hotel Grande Bretagne: A luxury hotel in the heart of Athens with an extensive wine list and rooftop dining.
- AthensWas: A design hotel offering modern amenities and easy access to wine bars and restaurants.
Thebes
- Hotel Niovi: A comfortable option close to local wineries and archaeological sites.
- Dionysus Hotel: Named after the god of wine, this hotel offers cozy rooms and wine-themed décor.
Dining
Athens
- Oinoscent: A wine bar and restaurant with an extensive Greek wine list and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
- Heteroclito: A cozy wine bar specializing in Greek wines, perfect for a pre-dinner tasting.
Thebes
- To Diplano: A traditional taverna offering local dishes paired with regional wines.
- Ambrosia: An upscale restaurant featuring modern Greek cuisine and an impressive wine cellar.
Wine Shops & Bars
Athens
- By The Glass: Elegant wine bar offering over 200 Greek wines by the glass.
- Warehouse CO2: Trendy spot with an extensive selection of natural and organic wines.
Markopoulo
- Savatiano Wine Bar: Specializes in local Savatiano wines and regional varietals.
Other Shops
Athens
- Yoleni’s Greek Gastronomy Center: Multi-level store offering Greek wines, olive oils, and gourmet products.
- Pantopolion: Traditional delicatessen with a curated selection of Greek wines and spirits.
Thebes
- To Paradosiako: Family-run shop selling local wines and artisanal products.
Attractions
Athens
- Ancient Agora: Visit the birthplace of democracy and imagine ancient Greeks discussing politics over wine.
- Dionysos Theater: Explore the ruins of this ancient theater dedicated to the god of wine.
Thebes
- Archaeological Museum: Discover artifacts related to ancient Greek wine culture.
- Kadmeia: Wander through the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of surrounding vineyards.
Events
Athens Wine Week
Held annually in March, this event features wine tastings, seminars, and food pairings across the city.
Dionysia Festival
A celebration of wine and theater in Athens, typically held in spring, honoring the ancient traditions of Dionysus.
Attica Wine & Food Experience
A weekend event in September showcasing the region’s wines and culinary delights.
Appellations
Attica PGI (Protected Geographical Indication)
Covers wines produced in the Attica region, known for white wines made from Savatiano grapes.
Retsina
A traditional Greek wine infused with pine resin, with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status for certain areas in Attica.
Central Greece PGI
Encompasses a variety of wines from the broader Central Greece region, including red, white, and rosé styles.
Grape Varieties
The Attica region boasts a diverse range of grape varieties. Savatiano is the most widely planted, known for its resilience to drought.
- White varieties: Roditis, Assyrtiko, Malagousia
- Red varieties: Agiorgitiko, Mandilaria, Cabernet Sauvignon
Main Wine Styles
Attica produces a variety of wine styles, reflecting its unique terroir and climate. Retsina, a traditional Greek wine infused with pine resin, is a local specialty.
- Crisp, dry white wines from Savatiano
- Full-bodied red blends
- Refreshing rosés
- Sweet wines from sun-dried grapes
Food Specialties
Attica’s cuisine pairs perfectly with its wines. Fresh seafood from the Aegean Sea is a must-try.
- Grilled octopus with lemon and olive oil
- Spanakopita (spinach pie)
- Souvlaki (grilled meat skewers)
- Local cheeses like feta and graviera
Drives & Walks
Explore Attica’s scenic landscapes and vineyards through these routes:
Wine Roads
- Mesogeia Wine Route: Visit wineries in Spata and Koropi
- Markopoulo Wine Trail: Discover small producers and ancient vineyards
Nature Walks
- Mount Parnitha National Park: Hiking trails with panoramic views
- Sounion Coastal Path: Walk along the Aegean coast to the Temple of Poseidon
Itineraries
Plan your Attica wine adventure with these suggested itineraries:
Weekend Getaway (3 days)
- Day 1: Athens city tour and wine tasting
- Day 2: Mesogeia Wine Route exploration
- Day 3: Visit to Cape Sounion and coastal winery
Wine Lover’s Week (7 days)
- Days 1-2: Athens sightseeing and urban wineries
- Days 3-4: Mesogeia and Markopoulo wine trails
- Day 5: Mount Parnitha hike and winery visit
- Day 6: Coastal tour and seafood pairing
- Day 7: Cooking class with local wine pairings
Getting There & Around
Athens International Airport (AIA) serves as the main gateway to Attica. From the airport:
- Metro Line 3: Direct connection to Athens city center (40 minutes)
- Suburban Railway: Links to key wine regions like Mesogeia
- Car rental: Recommended for exploring rural wineries
Public Transportation
Athens’ extensive public transit system includes:
- Metro: 3 lines covering major city areas
- Buses and trolleys: Reach suburban wine regions
- Tram: Connects coastal areas, ideal for seaside wineries
Best Time to Visit
Attica’s Mediterranean climate offers year-round appeal for wine enthusiasts:
- Spring (April-May): Mild weather, ideal for vineyard tours
- Fall (September-October): Harvest season, wine festivals
- Summer (June-August): Perfect for coastal wineries, but crowded
- Winter (November-March): Off-season, good for urban wine experiences
Sustainability Efforts
Attica’s wine industry is embracing eco-friendly practices:
- Organic viticulture: Many vineyards adopt chemical-free farming
- Water conservation: Drip irrigation systems in drought-prone areas
- Solar energy: Wineries incorporating renewable power sources
- Biodiversity promotion: Planting native flora to support local ecosystems
Language Tips
While English is widely spoken, learning a few Greek wine terms enhances your experience:
- Κρασί (Krasi): Wine
- Λευκό (Lefko): White
- Κόκκινο (Kokkino): Red
- Γεια μας! (Yia mas!): Cheers!
Further Resources
Expand your knowledge of Attica’s wine scene with these resources:
- Greek Wine Federation: Official body for Greek wines
- Wines of Athens: Local wine route information
- Visit Greece: Official tourism portal with wine-related content
- Greek Wine Guide: Comprehensive database of Greek wines and producers