We’ve been wanting to visit the Greek port town of Gerolimenas in the Mani peninsula since driving through the area in 2019 on our way back from Gytheio. Located on the southern tip of the Peloponnese, Mani is notable for its stone architecture. The region is arid and its warm rocky terrain makes for gorgeous views with crystal clear waters. For our trip, we booked a three night stay at Ktima Kyrimai, a waterfront property built in the 1870s. The historic hotel’s service is as immaculate as its setting. While we could have ventured off to explore the area, we…
Greek Wine
-
Continue ReadingZakynthos island is located off the western coast of the Peloponnese. The large island is particularly popular with British tourists and easily accessible by plane and ferry. Where to Stay There are many options to choose from when trying to decide where to stay and if you’re not familiar with the island the plethora of choice can be overwhelming. From the port or airport, you’ll want to head north towards Tsilivi Beach and Agios Nikolaos or south towards Kalamaki and Keri. Choosing where to stay will depend on whether you’re looking for sweeping views and tranquility, a resort style setup,…
-
Continue ReadingBeyond its pleasant aromas and soothing qualities, a glass of wine holds a special power, the ability to convey a specific place and time, most commonly referred to as terroir, the combination of climate, weather, and soil that give a wine its specific characteristics. It is this terroir that the hundred and fifty year old winery, Domaine Mercouri, has captured as the premier producer of geographically protected Letrini wines. Founded in 1864, it is also one of Greece’s oldest wineries, now operated by 4th and 5th generation members of the Mercouri family. The Winery’s Early Years The winery’s story begins…
-
Continue ReadingA pleasant two hour drive from Athens, in the heartland of the Peloponnese, sits a small chapel. Situated on the highest point of Tselepos’ Mantinia vineyard, it pays homage to Saint Tryphon, the patron saint of winemakers. With depictions of biblical references to wine adorning the chapel’s interior, one is reminded of Greece’s devout christianity and that winemaking, as with all agricultural endeavors, is at the mercy of elements beyond our control. But even more so, the chapel is a reflection of Giannis Tselepos’ holistic approach to winemaking. Having studied oenolgy at the University of Dijon in Burgundy, he returned to…
-
Continue ReadingOur time in Greece is filled with rest and relaxation as well as exploring foods produced in the region, such as artisanal olive oil, florina peppers, and mountain tea. There is a long list of locally produced foods that are difficult, if not impossible, to find in the United States. This year, I set out to learn more about Greek wines. While Greece has established its reputation as one of the world’s leading olive oil producers, it isn’t well known for its wines. Last summer I tasted a Greek rosé and found it to be one of the most enjoyable rosés…