Dodecanese islands are located in the southeastern part of the Aegean Sea. 15 larger and smaller islands compose a picturesque destination in the Mediterranean, attracting global attention due to the wonderful coastline and the majestic landscapes. The hospitable locals, the cobbled pathways and the historic monuments are all part of an idyllic tourist destination with many things to offer. Among them, wine tourism has flourished in these islands and especially in Rhodes, Kos and Patmos.
Having been the largest wine exporter in the Mediterranean ever since the 7th century BC, Rhodes has been mastering grape cultivation and harvest ever since antiquity. Mount Attavyros at an altitude of 1,215 meters above sea level is a Natura 2000-protected area, rich in limestone, and Embonas is a place of exceptional natural beauty. This is where the finest grape varieties grow on the island. As for the special varieties of wine produced in the wider area, they feature Athiri and Amorgiano, along with two Muscats. Particularly Amorgiano is a type of Mandilaria, a legendary rustic wine that has been thought to derive from Amorgos island. PDo Rhodes and PDO Muscat of Rhodes are the bottled varieties you will most likely come across on the island. And the wineries worth visiting include Alexandris Family Winery and CAIR (Compagnia Agricola Industriale Rodi), as well as Emery by the Triantafyllou family.
Since the ancient times, wine has been believed to be a cure against illnesses of all sorts. Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, has underlined its importance. The famous “melantanon” wine was evidenced in the books of the ancient world even 2,500 years ago, highlighting Kos as a wine exporter worth mentioning. Besides the marvelous local products that feature wine cheese varieties of great taste, the most popular wine on the island is Mesariano. Triantafyllopoulos Vineyards and Winery is probably the best place to visit in Kos, along with Mesariano Organic Winery and Hatziemmanouil Winery. Malagousia, Assyrtiko, Cabernet Sauvignon, Assyrtiko and Syrah are some of the varieties to look for.
Finally, we should not neglect the importance of Patmos in Dodecanese wine tourism. Embracing fully traditional methods in cultivation, the local farmers have managed to create the basis for wine making of exceptional quality standards. Domaine Del’ Apocalypse is a great place for wine enthusiasts to experience something out of the ordinary. A vineyard that stretches no more than 2 hectares, with a seed bank and a biodynamic, agro-ecological vision worth exploring, these are the elements that make Patmos a unique wine destination.