Wines of Nemea

We had planned to travel to Nafplio and Nemea since the beginning of the summer and as the time for our return to the US is fast approaching, we decided to finally do it. And the trip was absolutely fantastic. Nafplio, the first capital of Greece after she gained her independence from the Ottomans in the 1820s, is a stunning coastal city in northeastern Peloponnese full of color and character. A bit to the northeast from Nafplio lies the territory of Nemea.

Nemea is rich in history and mythology, perhaps more known for the Nemean lion killed by the mythical hero Hercules. Since Homer, Nemea was also known for its vineyards and fine wine. Today it produces the Agiorgitiko varietal, arguably the finest red wine in Greece. Our destination was the Lafkiotis winery and we were very pleased indeed with the wine and the facilities.

In ancient Kleones, within the viticultural area of Nemea, the Lafkiotis family has been making wine since 1963. While the red Agiorgitiko is the prime varietal of the winery, other red and white grapes are used in their wine making. Their facilities are modern and include an attractive wine tasting and wine storing facility. They are open to visitors and the newly refurbished winery belongs to the "Wine Routes" of the Peloponnese. The visitors can be offered tours, information and the opportunity to taste their fine wines. We were greeted and escorted by Panagioti Lafkiotis and his son, Petros, a very young "apprentice" who was observing the wine tasting ritual very closely.

We will post in a few days our review of the Lafkiotis wines. Till then, cheers...