Corinthia Wine Region

Korinthos is a historic wine region located in the Northeast part of Peloponnese. The beautiful landscape of Korinthos is breathtaking and must discover the wine tradition of the area. Korinthos offers a wide range of options to enjoy wines with several wine routes across the region. The region is the only wine-growing region in Greece with a wide array of wine styles that is of high quality. The city of Corinth is an important port and is the second biggest city in Peloponnese. The region is one of the productive wine regions in Greece and was developed after 1945. 

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Korinthos!

Where is the Korinthos wine region?

Korinthos wine region lies in Southern Greece in the municipality of Corinthia, the Northeast part of Peloponnese. The region is a narrow joining point of Peloponnese to the rest of Greece. The region is bounded by the Saronic Gulf in the east,  the Klimenti wine region in the west, and the Argolida wine region in the North. This fascinating wine region lies just 78km west of Athens where one must go if you love wines. The region is home to the ancient city of Corinth which was believed to be founded by a descendant of Zeus. 

History of the Korinthos wine region

Archeological evidence suggests that the Korinthos region was populated as early as 5000BC. Korinthos, being the Peloponnesian war's gateway, played an important role in the region. Throughout Julius Caesar's reign, Corinth served as the capital of the Achaia Province. During the Middle Ages, the Korinthos were defended with various castles and fortifications at Akrokorinthos. The city was destroyed by a severe earthquake in 1858, and the entire city was rebuilt using earthquake-resistant town planning near the ancient city's remains. Korinthos has been producing wine for over 1000 years, and its wines are named for the famous city-state of Corinth. 

The terroir and geography of the Korinthos wine region

According to its geography and altitude, the Korinthos wine area is separated into three distinct zones. The flatlands around modern and ancient Nemea, the rocky semi-mountainous territory on the western south encircling the flatlands, and the mountainous zone at the foot of Mount Kyllini, the Peloponnese peninsula's second largest mountain. The vines are planted at a density of 1600-2000 stocks per acre. The soil is largely alluvial soil deposited by the Asopos River, with gravelly soil that is less fruitful in the mountains. Soils in the flatlands are mostly calcareous. The region's climate is temperate overall, but it is colder in the highlands, where grapes ripen later.

Popular grape varieties from the Korinthos wine region

The main grape of the Korinthos wine area is Agiorgitiko, and PDO requires red wines to be 100% Agiorgitiko to bear the PDO designation, but they can be made in a variety of styles ranging from sweet to fortified. Zante Currant, Moschofilero, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Malagousia, Assyrtiko, Merlot, and Syrah are also grown in the region.

Food to pair with Korinthos wine 

Pepperoni pizzas

Pizza spread throughout the world, beginning in Italy, with many variations in the toppings and cooking procedures. Pizza is a round flat crust with tomato sauce and toppings such as cheese, meat, olive oil, herbs, sausages, and whatever else you like. Originally baked in firewood ovens, this delicacy is usually baked in high-temperature ovens. Because of the usage of herbs such as basil and oregano, pizza is extremely fragrant.

The earthiness of the Agiorgitiko complements the flavor of herbs on pizza. The medium-bodied, extremely acidic Agiorgitiko pairs well with the pizza's acidic sauce and pepperoni.

Barbecue

Barbecue is most commonly associated with an outdoor social event in which meats or fish, together with vegetables, are cooked over a wood or charcoal fire with the lid closed.

Barbecuing has long been a part of American culture and is often appreciated during celebrations and social gatherings around the country. BBQ is frequently served with sauce, salad, sweet potato, and beans. Pork and beef are the most popular meats. Other barbecued dishes include lamb, chicken, sausages, and even shellfish.

Most Agiorgitiko goes nicely with smoked meats and sausages marinated in a sweet and spicy marinade.

Roasted Lamb

Lamb is a versatile meat that may be enjoyed as a special treat throughout the year. Many flavors accompany lamb, so experiment with various herbs, spices, and condiments to enhance the flavor of your choice.

Agiorgitiko wines complement roasted lamb dishes such as rack of lamb, leg of lamb, or lamb cutlets.

Places to visit in the Korinthos wine region

Archaeological Site of ancient Corinth

The site was first found in the first excavation in 1896 which has continued till this day. The excavation started around the Temple of Apollo that dates back to mid 6th century BC. There have been numerous findings from the early Neolithic period to early modern times. The museum of ancient Corinth was founded in 1932 to house these valuable ancient objects. The site is located on the northern foothills of the Acrocorinth hills. This ancient site can be visited for a small ticket fee. If you are around Pelopennnese, do visit this site that stood against time. 

Saint Patapios Monastery

Saint Patapios Monastery is located on the steep slope of Gerania Mountain in a building complex that includes an extension of the original hermitage from the 12th century. The monastery was erected under the auspices of the Chancellor of the Holy Metropolis of Corinth in 1952. The monastery is a convent that does extensive philanthropic and social activities, including a nursing home. The monastery houses a holy relic of St. Patapios, the wonderworker, whose feast day is celebrated every year on December 8th. Many pilgrims come from all across Greece to pay their respects to the saint. The lovely monastery with breathtaking scenery is a must-see in the Korinthos wine area.

Frequently asked questions about Korinthos