Dodecanese Wine Region

The Dodecanese wine area consists of a cluster of islands in the Southeastern Aegean Sea. The term “Dodecanese” means "twelve islands" in Greek, however, the region consists of 15 main and 150 smaller islands. Since ancient times, Rhodes has been the most notable and famous of these 15 big islands, with Kos and Patmos also being historically significant. The region is well-known for its robust red wines. Vineyards are predominantly found on Rhodes, Kos, and Leros, where they are planted with Athiri, Amorgiano, and other varietals. These one-of-a-kind wine islands are blessed with a climate that produces 128,850 hectolitres of wine.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in the Dodecanese!

Where is the Dodecanese wine region?

The Dodecanese Islands are a cluster of islands in the southeastern Aegean Sea between Greece and Turkey. The region is located right off the coast of Anatolia, Turkey. Only 26 of the 15 large and 150 tiny islands are inhabited. These islands are part of the larger group of southern Sporades. Because of their medieval architecture, crystal blue waters, and tranquil pebbly beaches, these islands have a completely distinct style from the Cyclades. It is only one hour flight from Athens or Thessaloniki. You can also take a ferry from Piraeus Port, which is located near Athens.

History of the Dodecanese wine region

The Dodecanese wine region has a strong winemaking heritage dating back thousands of years. The vineyards in the area were thought to have been established by the Crusaders at the same time as Crete. Crete was the site of the first Minoan settlement in Europe. According to recent discoveries, wine cultivation in the Dodecanese region dates back to at least 500 BC. Homer, a 5th-century poet, noted the flourishing wine trade in the Aegean, which was one of the region's major economic activities. The wines are outstanding and strong here. The Dodecanese wine area was granted PGI certification in 1990.

The terroir and geography of the Dodecanese wine region

The Aegean Sea has a strong influence on the islands here, with cold winds blowing over these clusters of islands. The soil of the Dodecanes is mostly dry and barren, with very little water retention. The mountains' soils are primarily limestone, whereas the valley's soils are volcanic grass. Vineyards can be found on the slopes of mountains and hills, which are frequently terraced and are known locally as Pezoules. This approach aids in soil erosion control and water retention. The current vineyard surface area is 3438 hectares.

Popular grape varieties from the Dodecanese wine region

Mandelaria and Athiri are the two most prominent grape varietals in the Dodecanese wine area. In the Rhodes region, about 7500 acres of vineyards are planted with round grapes that are resistant to dry and hot weather. Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Muscat White, Muscat di Trani, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Trebbiano, Mandilaria, Grenache Rouge, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Murvèdre, Censaut, Syrah, and Tempranillo are also grown in the region.

Food to pair with Dodecanese wine 

Meat Pie

Meat Pie is essentially a flaky pastry packed with a meat filling and other flavorful components. This meal has numerous variations depending on taste and geography. Pie dates back to the Neolithic period, with archaic pie emblems engraved on Egyptian tomb walls and writings. The Greeks modified this dish by adding flour and a meat filling. It is also claimed that this dish originated in Australia during the colonization period, where it provided significant nutritional value with simple and readily available ingredients. The flavor of meat pie pairs well with Dodecanese wines.

Filetes de polvo

Filetes de polvo is a typical Portuguese meal comprised of fried octopus tentacles. The octopus is cooked in water until soft before being served. The octopus is then cooked and chopped into little fillets. After that, the octopus is seasoned with chopped coriander, pepper, and lemon juice and set aside. Put some chopped carrots in another container and season with olive oil, vinegar, ground cumin, minced garlic, and chopped coriander. The fillet is then coated in flour and beaten egg before being fried in hot oil. This savory dish is frequently accompanied by carrot salad and olives. This nibble or appetizer complements Dodecanese wines.

Baliq kebab

It is a popular meal in Azerbaijan that is made from grilled fish. Baliq kebab is produced by marinating fish for many hours before skewering and cooking it. The most popular fish is one caught in the Caspian Sea. Dill, lemon juice, and salt are used to marinate the fish. The meal is frequently accompanied by sliced onions and tomatoes. This grilled fish pairs wonderfully with the wines of the Dodecanese wine region.

Places to visit in the Dodecanese wine region

Astypalaia

Astypalaia is a butterfly-shaped island located in the Dodecanese. This lovely location has a long history. This beautiful island is only 97 square kilometers long and 13 kilometers wide. This island is named after Astypalaea, an ancient mythological woman who was kidnapped by Poseidon. The coastline is rugged and pebbly, and it meets the brilliant blue sea. This is the most popular destination in the Dodecanese wine area.

Chalki

Chalki, also known as Halki, is a Dodecanese island located 9 kilometers west of Rhodes. Chalki was named after the Greek word for copper, Chalkos. This magnificent island is part of the Rhodes regional unit and is the smallest inhabited island in the Dodecanes region. The island, which is separated into Chorio and Emporio, has only 330 permanent people. It is a rugged island that has escaped mass tourists. The island is an ideal gateway location away from busy Rhodes. You can visit this location by ferry and enjoy a day tour.

Frequently asked questions about the Dodecanese