Evia Wine Region Guide

Evia, sometimes known as Euboia, is Greece's second largest island after Crete. The Euripus strait separates the region from mainland Greece's Boeotia. The geography of this one-of-a-kind wine area is highly varied and complicated, with rolling hills and mountains interspersed with valleys and low fields. This wine region is very important in the Greek wine business, with Lilantio and Karistos being the most valuable subregions. The white grape variety dominates the Evia wine region. The vineyards cover 1400 hectares and are separated into five subregions. Grape types on the Greek mainland and in the Cyclades are similar.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Evia!

Where is the Evia wine region?

The Euripus strait separates the island of Evia from the Greek mainland in eastern central Greece. This beautiful island is flanked to the east by the Aegean Sea and to the west by the Euripus strait, with the narrowest portion measuring 40 meters from the mainland. The Evia wine area is blessed with beautiful beaches, mountains, and rich culture. The island is linked by an impressive Chalkida bridge. The region is only 110 kilometers north of Athens and can be accessed in two hours by taking the A/D Pireos Athinon Thessalonikis Evzonin.

History of the Evia wine region

The Ionian Greeks from Attica settled in the Evia region. The largest cities were Chalcis and Eretria, which were also included in the ship inventory. Due to their rivalry, the Chalcis and Eretria fought the Lelantine war. The Persian armies destroyed Eretria in 490BC after the Ionian Greeks destroyed the Persian city of Sardis during the Ionian revolution. In the wars of Thermopylae and Artemisium, Persian conquered Evia and Athens. During the Peloponnesian War in 410BC, these islands recovered their independence. Wine production on this island was prominent during the Byzantine, Roman, and Greek eras.

The terroir and geography of the Evia wine region

Vineyards can be found in valleys, hills, and mountain slopes up to 350 meters above sea level. White grapes account for approximately 80% of the total vineyard surface in the Evia wine area. Greek Aegean cultivars are cultivated in the island's south. These grapes flourish in the dry, warm atmosphere with cool sea breezes. The islands' northernmost region is the coolest. The center part of the island, around the Chalcis, is the warmest. 

Popular grape varieties from the Evia wine region

The Evia wine region mostly produces white wines, with white grape varieties accounting for about 80% of vineyards. Savatiano is the most popular and extensively grown white grape.

Other grape varietals grown in the Evia wine area include:

White grape varieties: Assyrtiko, Aidaini, Athiri, Malagousia, Monemvasia, Savatiano, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Trebbiano.

Pink grape variety: Roditis.

Red grape varieties: Vradiano, Agiorgitiko, Karabraimis, Liatiko, Black Koudoura, Grenache Rouge, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot.

Food to pair with Evia wine 

Crab Cakes

Crab Cakes are fishcake varieties that became popular in the United States. Crab meat, bread crumbs, mayonnaise, mustard, eggs, and seasonings make up the dish. The dish is a favorite in Maryland. The blue crab is an excellent choice for this flavorful recipe. The dish is typically served with french fries, coleslaw, or salad on a bun. The dish was thought to be the first food eaten by Chesapeake Bay immigrants. In the 1930s, a recipe featured in Baltimore's Crab Cake helped popularize the meal. Several restaurants describe their crab cake as Maryland Crab Cake, referring to the use of Maryland blue crab. The Evia wines complement these delectable crab cakes well.

Kolokithakia tiganita

Kolokithakia tiganita is a typical Greek meal consisting of fried zucchinis. The dish is typically served as a meze or as a side dish. The zucchinis are first sliced and sprinkled with flour before being seasoned. Also utilized is an egg batter, which is then fried in high oil until golden and crispy. Kolokithakia tiganita is served with a variety of dips, including tzatziki and Skordalia. With its flavorful yet simple flavor, this excellent snack complements the Evia wines.

Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Haddock

This simple and satisfying supper is among the most popular in the Mediterranean region. The haddock is a distinct saltwater ray-finned fish that can satisfy fish skeptics. The haddock is marinated in Mediterranean spices before being cooked in a skillet with lemon garlic sauce, shallots, and artichoke hearts for only 4-5 minutes. The flavor is delicious, easygoing, and light. This one-of-a-kind Mediterranean cuisine pairs nicely with balanced Evia wines.

Places to visit in the Evia wine region

Karababa Castle

Karababa Castle is a 17th-century fortification perched on a hill in Chalkis' coastal area, just over the strait from Halkida. The Ottomans built the castle in 1684 as a defense barrier against the Venetians. Despite being erected by the Ottomans, the architecture of this castle is European. The castle measures 240 meters broad and 54 meters long, with the main gate located at the southeast corner. Between 1985 and 2000, the castle received extensive renovations. This castle offers a breathtaking perspective of the Evia wine area. Traces from the ancient city of Kanithos have been discovered. Inside this magnificent fortress, you'll see Venetian ornate carvings and representations of St. Mark's lion.

Archaeological Museum of Eretria

Evia has a rich and lengthy history, which can be examined in Eretria's outstanding archaeological museum. This is one of the most important museums in Greece, displaying a large collection of pottery, statues, and terracotta figurines dating back to the 10th century BC. The museum was established in 1960, with some improvements made in 1961 and 1962. The 11th Ephorate of Antiquities of the Greek Archaeological Department rebuilt it extensively between 1987 and 1991. The museum is close to the Eretria archaeological site. The museum houses items from Xeropolis, Skoumbri's cemetery, Palaia, Perivolla, and Toumba. If you are interested in history and cultural heritage, a visit to this site will help you learn about the Ionian Greeks and their way of life.

Frequently asked questions about Evia