The wines of Porto Carras have opened a new chapter in the history of winеtrading in Greece.
Greece is one of the leading destinations for wine tourism. The glory of Greek winemakers goes back to ancient times. But even today the country can boast some of the best vineyards in the world.. The wines of Porto Carras stand apart Among them - they have left their competitors far behind after their appearance in the world of winemaking and gastronomic tourism more than half a century ago.
How it began: the history of the winery
The history of the Porto Carras winery began just like the history of the one-named resort complex. In 1963, a ship sailed across the Toronei Bay, and there was a ship owner Yannis Karras on the board. When he stepped on the shore of Sithonia, he fell the charm of this area and after that he bought the land and immediately began the construction of the hotel complex.
There were the first grape plantations on the slopes of Mount Meliton in 1965. The issuer was considered to be more than serious: at first, they studied if the foreign varieties were fertile for cultivation, and the best specialists from Athens and Thessaloniki were involved to the vineyard planning. It was important to save the beauty and ecology of this area, which impressed Yannis Karras so much.
The winery was opened in 1970. It is located in the center of the vineyard, so the grapes are quickly delivered for processing without loss of useful properties. In early 2000s the plant underwent reconstruction and modernization. Today the vineyards of Porto Carras stretch over a vast territory - they are officially recognized as the largest in Europe. And the production of the winemaking industry regularly receives prestigious awards at international and Greek competitions.
Wines of Porto Carras
The whole harvest of Porto Carras vineyards organic and certified. Nowadays, 28 selected varieties are grown here. The historical variety of Malagusia is among them, which is recognized as one of the oldest kinds of grapes in the world. It was considered almost extinct during long time, but thanks to the specialists of Porto Carras it was completely restored. It also grows an ancient variety of Limnio, Asirtico, Roditis, Atiri, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mavrotragano, Moscato di Alexandria and Mavrodafni.
Porto Carras produces almost all types of wine. Those who prefer white dry wines should try White Soul, Assyrtiko and Melissanthi. Connoisseurs of red wines like Ruby Heart, Merlot, Syrah, Chrysallis. Pink sparkling Zoe and Poem is an excellent choice, made from jerked grapes of the Limnio variety. Also Porto Carras produces Antipoda with and without anise - this is the best for traditional Greek snacks.
There are selling wines, protected by the place of origin. Among them - Chateau Le Grand Blanc. This white wine is aged in French oak barrels for 9 months. The result you can taste some wine with a multifaceted aroma and a long aftertaste. The assortment of Porto Carras wines is wide: you can find young and aged wines. However, the price range is also quite different: from the budget (8 euros per bottle) to exclusive options (from 120 euros).
Special offers for guests: what to do at the winery
Through the years, Porto Carras does everything to make the journey to the world of wine interesting for the guests of the Halkidiki. Today, you can buy not only the wine of Porto Carras, but even chocolate and cosmetics with the grapes added. Wine connoisseurs will enjoy visiting the authentic Varelaki bar. Here you can try products of the winery and enjoy special atmosphere.
There are a few exclusive offers arranged for those who wish to immerse themselves in the world of Porto Carras. A tasting room works near the winery, where you can get acquainted with the wines of the mansion both as a part of the excursion group, and individually. There are guided tours of the unique Villa Galini provided for guests of Porto Carras. The history of the resort complex starts from this mansion. And, of course, the visit will not be full without an attendance of the winery and vineyard, which will impress with their spectacular views. The most unusual facilities of Porto Carras are wine spa procedures and the opportunity to play golf, combining sport activities with wine degustation. And furthermore several unique hiking routes have been developed for walk lovers of different levelsdeficulty,.
