Discover Mantinia: A Hidden Gem in Peloponnese
Nestled in the heart of Peloponnese, Mantinia offers wine enthusiasts a unique blend of history and viticulture. This high-altitude wine region is renowned for its crisp white wines and stunning mountain scenery.
Towns and Villages
The charming town of Tripoli serves as the gateway to Mantinia. Its central square, lined with cafes and tavernas, provides an excellent base for exploring the region.
Visit the picturesque village of Levidi, known for its traditional stone houses and proximity to several wineries. The nearby hamlet of Kapsia is home to impressive caves and local wine producers.
Wine Producers
- Domaine Spiropoulos: A family-owned organic winery producing exceptional Moschofilero wines.
- Tselepos Winery: Offers guided tours and tastings of their award-winning Mantinia PDO wines.
- Bosinakis Winery: Known for their innovative approach to traditional grape varieties.
Most wineries require advance booking for tours and tastings. Consider visiting during the harvest season (September-October) for a more immersive experience.
Accommodations
Tripoli offers a range of hotels suitable for different budgets:
- Arcadia Hotel: A centrally located 3-star option with comfortable rooms.
- Mainalon Resort: Luxury hotel with spa facilities, perfect for a relaxing wine retreat.
For a more rustic experience, try the guesthouses in Levidi, offering stunning views of the Mantinian plateau.
Dining
Sample local cuisine paired with Mantinian wines at these recommended restaurants:
- To Hani (Tripoli): Traditional Greek taverna serving regional specialties.
- Klimataria (Levidi): Rustic eatery known for its grilled meats and extensive local wine list.
- Tselepos Winery Restaurant: Offers gourmet dishes perfectly matched with their wines.
Don’t miss trying the local hilopites (egg pasta) and trahana (fermented milk and grain dish) paired with a crisp Moschofilero.
Wine Shops & Bars
Mantinia’s wine scene extends beyond wineries. Explore these local haunts:
- Oinopoleio (Tripoli): Well-stocked wine shop with a vast selection of Mantinian wines.
- To Krasopoulio (Levidi): Cozy wine bar offering tastings of regional vintages.
- Vino di Vino (Tripoli): Modern wine bar with a curated list of Greek and international wines.
Many shops offer shipping services, allowing you to send your favorite bottles home.
Other Shops
Pick up local specialties and souvenirs:
- Arkadiko Honey (Tripoli): Renowned for its aromatic mountain honey.
- Mantinia Cheese Cooperative (Levidi): Stock up on local cheeses like graviera and kefalotyri.
- Olive Wood Artisans (Kapsia): Handcrafted olive wood kitchenware and decorative items.
Attractions
Balance wine tasting with cultural experiences:
- Ancient Mantineia: Explore ruins of this important ancient city.
- Kapsia Cave: Marvel at stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
- Menalon Trail: Hike through picturesque villages and forests.
- War Museum of Tripoli: Learn about the region’s role in Greek independence.
Events
Time your visit with these wine-focused events:
- Mantinia Wine Festival (August): Showcases local wines and culinary traditions.
- Harvest Celebrations (September-October): Many wineries offer special tours and events.
- Moschofilero Day (May): Celebrates Mantinia’s signature grape variety.
Check winery websites for smaller events like vertical tastings or winemaker dinners.
Appellations
Understand Mantinia’s wine classifications:
- Mantinia PDO: Primarily for white wines made from Moschofilero grapes.
- Peloponnese PGI: Broader regional designation allowing more grape varieties.
Look for these appellations on wine labels to ensure authenticity and quality.
Grape Varieties
Mantinia’s cool climate supports unique grape varieties. Moschofilero reigns supreme, producing aromatic white wines.
- Moschofilero: Pink-skinned grape with floral notes and high acidity
- Asproudes: Local white variety, often blended with Moschofilero
- Agiorgitiko: Red grape occasionally found in the region
Main Wine Styles
Mantinia specializes in crisp, aromatic white wines. The region’s PDO status focuses on Moschofilero-based wines.
- Still whites: Light-bodied, floral, with citrus notes
- Sparkling wines: Increasing in popularity, showcasing Moschofilero’s versatility
- Rosé wines: Delicate, made from Moschofilero’s pink skins
Food Specialties
Peloponnese cuisine complements the local wines. Traditional dishes highlight fresh, local ingredients.
- Hilopites: Handmade egg pasta, often served with grated cheese
- Roast pork: Locally raised, seasoned with herbs
- Feta cheese: Protected designation, often served in salads or as meze
- Mountain herbs: Used in teas and cooking, including oregano and thyme
Drives & Walks
Explore Mantinia’s scenic landscapes through drives and walks. The region offers a mix of natural beauty and historical sites.
Scenic Drives
- Tripoli to Vytina: Winding mountain road with panoramic views
- Ancient Mantineia loop: Pass vineyards and ancient ruins
Walking Trails
- Mount Mainalo: Hiking paths through fir forests
- Kapsia Cave: Short walk to impressive stalactites and stalagmites
Itineraries
Plan your Mantinia wine adventure with these curated itineraries. Each route offers a blend of wine tasting and cultural experiences.
Weekend Getaway (2-3 days)
- Day 1: Arrive in Tripoli, visit local winery
- Day 2: Tour Ancient Mantineia, afternoon wine tasting
- Day 3: Scenic drive to Vytina, depart
Wine Lover’s Week (5-7 days)
- Days 1-2: Tripoli base, visit multiple wineries
- Days 3-4: Explore Mount Mainalo, stay in mountain village
- Days 5-7: Ancient sites, more wine tastings, local cuisine experiences
Getting There & Around
Mantinia is accessible primarily by car, with Tripoli serving as the main gateway.
- By car: 2-hour drive from Athens via the A7 highway
- By bus: Regular KTEL services from Athens to Tripoli
- Local transport: Limited, renting a car is recommended for winery visits
Best Time to Visit
Mantinia’s continental climate offers distinct seasons for wine tourism.
- Spring (April-May): Mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities
- Autumn (September-October): Harvest season, perfect for winery tours
- Summer (June-August): Warm days, cool nights, busy tourist season
- Winter (November-March): Cold, occasional snow, quieter for wine tastings
Sustainability Efforts
Mantinia’s wineries are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices.
- Organic viticulture: Growing number of vineyards eschewing chemical treatments
- Water conservation: Drip irrigation systems to reduce water usage
- Solar energy: Some wineries implementing solar panels for power
Language Tips
While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few Greek phrases enhances the experience.
- Yia sas (Γεια σας): Hello/Goodbye
- Efharisto (Ευχαριστώ): Thank you
- Krasí (Κρασί): Wine
- Yia mas (Γεια μας): Cheers
Further Resources
Expand your knowledge of Mantinia wines and plan your trip with these resources:
- Greek Wine Federation: Official wine tourism information
- Visit Greece: National tourism organization
- Wine Routes of Northern Greece: Regional wine tourism network
