On Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th May all of the wineries Wine Producers Association of the Vineyard of Attica will be open to the public for free and invite all of those who have a passion for art of wine on a journey of aromas and flavors.
Some of the activites that are taking place include exploring the vineyards, the production line, the cellar, wine tasting, happenings and surprises for all the guests as well as special prices.
The vineyards of Attica are spread extensively over the Attic basin whose borders reach the mountains of Hymettus, Penteli, Parnitha, Kitherona, Geraneia and Patera. From Greek history and mythology there is evidence of Attica’s long association with wine:
- The worship of Dimitra, goddess of agriculture, of her daughter Persephone, and of Adonis, believed to be the bringer of spring, originated in Attica.
- According to ancient tradition, Dionysus, god of joy and wine, introduced the cultivation of the vine and the art of wine drinking to the people of Attica.
- Aristotle claims that Greek tragedy originated from Dithyramb – the simple, impromptu song in honor of Dionysus.
Cratinus, creator of Attic Comedy, defines unambiguously the direct connection between poetic inspiration and wine drinking when he wrote: “Wine is the galloping steed for the exquisite poet – by drinking water, nothing profound will he compose”.
In Ancient times Athenians opened the new wine during the “Pithigia” or symposia, which were held on the first day of the three day “Anthesteria” -celebrations in honor of Dionysus. - Aristophanes’ predecessor, Cessario, the Comedian and founder of Comedy, who lived in the Attican city of Megara in the 5th century BC describes Dionysus’ escapades and the Dionysian festivals associated with wine in his comedies.
The Eleusinian Mysteries held annually in Attica were a religious ritual associated with the cult of fertility which was not only recognized in Greece, but known to all the civilized people of that time. The descent of Persephone to the under world was commemorated in mystic fashion together with the celebration of Spring in the form of a juvenile Adonis. - In classical Athens during the famous symposia held by philosophers and noblemen official Cup bearers (oinochooi) were appointed by the local lord and they were none other than the sommeliers of today. The cup bearer (oinochoos) served wine into glasses from a special bowl or pot (oinochoi), ceramic or metal which required a funnel (prochoi) so that the wine could be poured easily. This duty was mainly carried out by young servants. Ganymede and Hebe were the Cup bearers who served wine to the Olympian gods.
Today viniculture in Attica draws on its abundant history, its varied vineyards and the knowledge of viticulture and winemaking of its producers to offer wines from the Attican vineyards which show typicity offering an authentic flavour to today’s consumer.
For more information, or a tour to the vineyeards please contact Travel Zone!