Κυκλάδες (Kiklades)

Styles

Principal grape varieties

Terroir

• A continental Mediterranean microclimate with mild winters and cool summers, shaped by topography and proximity to the sea.
• The summer μελτέμια (northerly winds) moderate temperatures and enhance technological ripeness (acidity, aromas, sugars).
• High sunshine levels and a subtropical–Mediterranean climate favour viticulture on nearly all the Cycladic islands.
• The volcanic soil of Σαντορίνη — arid and inhospitable to phylloxera — constitutes a distinctive pedological factor of the zone.
• Vineyards at elevations from 30 metres and above, on an island relief that acts as 'balconies' overlooking the Aegean.

• Ancient protection of origin: since antiquity a system analogous to today's ΠΟΠ existed, with strict penalties for adulteration.
• The basket-pruning (κουλούρα) in Σαντορίνη and indigenous varieties (Ασύρτικο) grown on volcanic, phylloxera-resistant soil represent a historic viticultural practice.

• The μελτέμια shape the 'technological ripeness' of the grapes, influencing acidity, colour, aromatic compounds, and sugars.
• The sun-dried wines of the Cyclades develop distinctive aromatic characteristics thanks to prolonged sunshine and high temperatures.

• The summer μελτέμια regulate temperature and improve acidity, colour, aromas, and sugars during technological ripening.

Facts drawn from the cahier's terroir-link section (Lien au terroir) by automatic interpretation — see the source.

Sources

• National product specification (PDF) — ypaat
• eAmbrosia register (EU) — File number PGI-GR-A1343
• Official trade body site — Wines of Greece (EDOAO)