Attica is an historic and fascinating wine region but is surprisingly little known given that it is right on the outskirts of Athens. When you travel to Athens, and if you get to the wine country just on the doorstep, expect a warm welcome in the wineries. This is the kind of place where there is no wine tasting fee, you’re likely to receive a discount if you buy a few bottles and the owner herself or himself is likely to greet you and show you around.
Where is the Attica Wine Region?
Attica is the peninsula jutting into the Aegean Sea where the City of Athens is located. When you land at Athens Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) you are in the heart of Attica wine country and the vines are all around you. So if you are on your way to the islands or visiting the historical sites nearby you can take in the wineries, drink some excellent local wines and maximize the experience in this wine country – hidden in plain view!
Attica – With Athens as the capital, in the heart of Greece
Why Attica for Wine?
Attica has been Athens’ vineyard for thousands of years. Unfortunately there was a period of time when the Athens market demanded cheap retsina and the local vintners became focussed on that product. Today, a new generation of winemakers is making outstanding wines by re-purposing their old vine Savatiano vineyards. And they are demonstrating to a growing international audience that those old vines can make superlative white wines.
Who are the Winemakers?
Some of the best are Papagiannakos, Costa Lazaridi, Mylonas and Harlaftis. All of these winemakers produce world class wine. Lazaridi Estate features a truly amazing wine museum.
Listen to the podcast with Vassilis Papagiannakos on The Wine Beat Podcast and also listen to The Greek Wine Renaissance podcast as well!
When to Visit Attica?
It’s Greece – any time of the year is amazing. The crowds at the monuments in Athens are heaviest in July and August. But if you are travelling in the summer, you can get away from the crowds for half a day by booking winery tour. Remember to book winery tours in advance.
