Epirus
Greece
Greece wine regions
About Epirus
Epirus is the mountainous northwestern region of mainland Greece, with vines climbing to over 1,000 metres on the Zagori plateau and around the Pindus passes. The one PDO, Zitsa, makes whites from the native Debina grape in still, off-dry, and traditional-method sparkling styles. PGI Metsovo, around the namesake mountain village, was pioneered by Katogi-Strofilia in the 1960s as Greece's highest-altitude Cabernet Sauvignon project. PGI Ioannina and PGI Epirus cover the wider region. The cool growing season and high altitudes give Epirus wines a lean, transparent character distinct from the rest of mainland Greece.
Greece wine regions
PDOs & PGIs
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Terroir & Character
Climate
MountainousCoolHigh altitudeContinentalHigh rainfall
Terroir
LimestoneFlyschSteep slopesCalcareous soils
Typical Aromas
Green appleLemon zestWild thymeMountain herbsWhite flowersCrushed stone
Explore the aroma wheelFrequently Asked Questions
What is the signature wine of Epirus?▼
Zitsa, made from the native Debina grape, is the region's one PDO. Light, floral and bracingly acidic, it is produced in still, off-dry and traditional-method sparkling styles. The vines climb to over 600 metres on the Zitsa plateau, and the wines feel closer in style to a serious Alsace Riesling than to anything else in Greece.
Why is Metsovo significant in Greek wine history?▼
Metsovo is a mountain village at over 1,000 metres in the Pindus range, and the Katogi-Strofilia estate pioneered Cabernet Sauvignon viticulture here in the 1960s, making it Greece's first high-altitude international-variety project. The cool growing season produces lean, structured Cabernet blends that have nothing in common with hotter southern Greek reds.
Is Epirus all about whites?▼
Mostly, yes. Debina, Vlachiko (a native red), Bekari and Traminer are the signature local varieties, with Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah filling out the modern reds. The cold continental climate at altitude favours bright, mineral whites; reds tend to be cool-climate styles with high natural acidity.
When should I drink Zitsa wines?▼
Within the first 3 to 5 years for the still and sparkling styles, which are at their best when bright and floral. The off-dry versions can hold longer but are also generally meant for early drinking.
Map data: Wines of Greece (ΕΔΟΑΟ, PDO/PGI register) · EU eAmbrosia · Administrative boundaries © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL)