Λακωνία (Lakonia)
Styles
Principal grape varieties
AssyrtikoCabernet-SauvignonAgiorgitikoMonemvasiaMerlotAthiriMandilariaΜαλαγουζιά Β (Malagouzia B)Roditis
Terroir
Natural factors
- Undulating relief at elevations of 70–500 m, bounded by Taygetos to the west and Parnon to the east
- Clay-limestone soils, characteristic of the viticultural area
- Taygetos acts as an aeolian barrier, limiting westerly rainfall and ensuring dry summers
- Southern exposure toward the Laconian Gulf brings mild winters through southerly winds
- Northeasterly winds from Parnon ensure cool summers in the valley
Human factors
- Viticulture in Laconia is documented from Mycenaean times, evidenced by a vine-leaf imprint on a clay seal from the Menelaion.
- From the 10th century onward, the wine of Monemvasia gained commercial significance; by 1214 it was being mixed 'in abundance' in Constantinople.
Terroir / wine link
- The interplay of clay and limestone, microclimate, varietal composition, and winemaking practices shapes the uniqueness of the ΠΓΕ Laconia wines.
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-A1528
- Official trade body site — Wines of Greece (EDOAO)