Naoussa Wine Region Guide

Naoussa is a sub-region of Macedonia. The Naoussa wine region has some amazing wines and is highly regarded. During your wine journey in Macedonia, we encourage you to try the outstanding wines it has to offer! More and more people are discovering the endless benefits Naoussa’s wines offer. This is because of their unique terroir, selection of grape varieties grown and winemaking practices. All these elements together contribute to a style of wine which can't be found anywhere else in Greece.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Naoussa Wine Region

Where is the Naoussa Wine Region

Naoussa wine region is in Macedonia on the northern side of Greece. It takes one hour from the regional capital Thessaloniki.

History of Naoussa Wine

During the 19th century, Naoussa wine was favored by Europeans. Greek producers were able to evade high taxes and bans on winemaking imposed by Ottomans by selling their regions' wine across Europe. However, a bout of phylloxera in the region in the early 20th Century led to many vineyards being ripped out. In the 1960s, many vines were replanted with phylloxera-resistant rootstocks and modern winemaking techniques were introduced. This lead to a revival of quality wines in Naoussa. Establishing the appellation in 1971 resulted in great improvements to both winemaking and viticulture.

Terrior of Naoussa

Naoussa's climate is more continental (and less Mediterranean) than in most Greek wine regions. This is due to the mountains that rise to the west, and the plain of Kambania to the east. On one hand, the mountains around here protect the region from cold winds. On the other hand, these same mountains create hot winds. Winters are cold in Greece.

Pruning techniques allow producers of Xinomavro to keep yields low for tastier grapes. The most quality-conscious producers will harvest smaller amounts than the official limit set by their expected appellation. Now, site selection is also important and the best sites around Naoussa have well-drained, low-fertility soils that encourage strong roots to develop.

Nemea Wine Characteristics 

Naoussa is a structured and savory red wine, exclusively made from Macedonia's flagship grape, Xinomavro. Xinomavro is an active varietal, high yielding, robust and resistant to a variety of diseases. The grapes can vary depending on the region they are grown, but they are generally medium-sized with a thick skin color. The flesh ranges in color from dark red to nearly black and has white fibers through it.

The wines of Xinomavro are best known for their superb aging potential and rich tannic character. Their complex aromas combine red fruits (such as sour cherry, raspberry, blackberry or pomegranate), hints of mushroom, smoke, olives and sometimes coffee. PDO Naoussa wines are aged in bottles, oak barrels and also other containers like terracotta amphorae. This ageing process can introduce pleasant smells and flavours such as clove, cinnamon, allspice or vanilla.Aging can also slowly destroy the chemical causing headaches and nose-tickles. The aging process has a mellowing effect on wine, it leaves a softer taste and also makes wines more durable to temperature change.

Food to pair with Naoussa Wine

1. Taramasalata

Taramasalata is a Greek and Turkish dish that combines mashed potatoes or bread with lemon juice, olive oil, and fish roe. It is usually eaten as an appetizer. Taramasalata is traditionally consumed in Greece on Clean Monday, the first day of Lent. You can also buy it pre-made in stores but that version doesn't go down too well due to the food coloring and other ingredients used to make it. Taramasalata is often served with olives, tomatoes, and cucumbers. It is very tasty and pairs well with Naoussa wines.

2. Kokkinisto

Kokkinisto is an array of different dishes from Greece that consist of searing and braising various types of meat in tomato sauce, often including red wine and spicy herbs. Traditionally prepared with beef, chicken, or lamb, kokkinisto dishes are typically served complemented by pasta or potatoes and can be enjoyed as the main course or a smaller meze dish. It goes well with Naoussa wines.

3. Bougatsa

The folk pie called Bougatsa is traditionally made with a cheese filling, also containing bits of meat or semolina custard. The name for this dish is derived from the Persian word Pogatsa and derives from the Ottoman Empire. Bougatsa is a Greek pastry with roots from the Byzantine period. That time, when Constantinople was Greek, it was filled with sweet and savory fillings. Over time, bougatsa evolved to be made with a thin phyllo dough. There are many Turkish immigrants that have settled in Northern Greece, as they brought their own signature dish - Bougatsa. Nowadays Bougatsa is a specialty of Serres and Thessaloniki.

Pies are popular in Greece, and Athens is the city where they are eaten most often. You can find them in some specialty shops called "bougatsopolia" exclusively selling bougatsas. It pairs well with Naoussa wines.

Places to visit near Naoussa

1. Church of Agios Antonios

One of the most significant buildings in Naoussa is the Church of Agios Antonios. The traditional white building lies on the waterfront and locals believe Saint Anthony watches over them as a protector.

2. Venetian Castle of Naoussa

One of the most famous sights at Naoussa is the Venetian Castle, which was created by the Sommaripa family in the 15th Century. The first version had two towers but due to changes in climate and weather it now has only one.

3. Naoussa Byzantine Museum

Located at a former Catholic school in Naoussa, the Byzantine Museum is in the centuries-old structure of the Agios Athanassios monastery. The museum holds Byzantine and Post-Byzantine works of art such as Venetian sculptures, Roman artifacts, 12-century religious icons, wooden vessels, and local paintings.

4. Mycenaean Acropolis

If in search of adventurous things to do in the village, hiking up the Mycenaean Acropolis will give you picturesque views of Naoussa Bay. The ruin is an archeological site in Greece, lying atop the Koukounaries Hill, constructed in 1200 BC.

Frequently asked questions about Naoussa Wine Region