The Winery Zorbas of Peloponnesos

Discovering the wine region of Peloponnesos

The Peloponnese Peninsula (Peloponnesus) is a large landform on the southern edge of continental Greece. Covered in mountains, rugged plateaus and valleys, the area has an abundance of mesoClimates and terroirs suitable for premium viticulture. Native Grape varieties such as Agiorgitiko, Moschofilero and Mavrodaphne are planted throughout the peninsula. They produce everything from fresh, minerally white wines to Rich, ageworthy reds.

The modern Peloponnese wine industry began to grow following the end of World War II, and today the region is one of the most viticulturally productive in Greece. Along with the seven PDO-level appellations, there are 17 regional appellations scattered across the whole area, including Tegea, Arcadia, Corinth and the Slopes of Petroto. A wide range of Greek and international grape varieties are covered by these appellations. They include Assyrtico, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Refosco and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The peninsula (technically an island after the opening of the Corinth Canal in 1893) is the meeting place of the Aegean, Ionian and Mediterranean seas. Measuring some 21,500 square kilometers (8300 square miles), the land covers an area slightly smaller than the US state of New Jersey. Several mountain ranges traverse the Peloponnese, and it is here that most of the peninsula's viticulture takes place. Two of the most highly respected Protected Designation of Origin appellations in Greece – Nemea and Mantinia – are located on the eastern side of the Peloponnese.