Μεταξάτων (Metaxaton)

Styles

Principal grape varieties

Terroir

• Rolling hills and gentle slopes in close proximity to the sea define the relief of the zone.
• A distinctive microclimate with high relative humidity sets the zone apart from other winegrowing regions.
• The soils are calcareous in composition with μάργες, two characteristic geological formations.
• Metaxata (Monastiria area) emerges as the principal production place-name within the ΠΓΕ.
• Historic production centres: Thinaía, Pallikí, and Livathó — the three traditional αμπελουργικές ζώνες of the island.

• During the Venetian period, Μαυροδάφνη was prized for its durability in transport, forming part of a distinctive monopoly.
• In 1858, Dr Nik. Piniátoros founded a wine-making company for Μαυροδάφνη; in 1872 it passed to a British merchant trader.

• The wine is described as 'aromatic' with a 'very deep red colour' of such intensity that 'a few drops powerfully stain a glass of white wine'.
• The wine demonstrated resilience during lengthy shipments, a quality that made it particularly sought-after during the Venetian period.

• The calcareous soils with μάργες and the distinctive high-humidity microclimate shape the character of the wines of ΠΓΕ Metaxata.

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-A1019
• Official trade body site — Wines of Greece (EDOAO)