A Journey of Taste and Tradition
Viticulture in the Kozani region boasts deep roots, with vineyards already documented in Ottoman tax records dating back to the 16th century. 19th-century travellers lauded the region's wines, while products such as tsipouro (pomace brandy), petimezi (grape molasses), and grape must remained closely linked to the daily lives of the locals.
Varietal Composition and History
From the slopes of Mount Askio (Siatista, Galatini, Eratyra, Pelekanos) to the banks of the Aliakmonas River (Aiani, Messiani, Roditis, Velventos), Xinomavro and Moschomavro continue to hold a prominent position. Although older varieties such as Pitsiariko, Vapsa, Voulgariko, and Kokkinouska have fallen behind, the region has been revitalised through their combination with international grape varieties such as Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Gewürztraminer.
Protected Geographical Indications (PGI)
Wine production is organised into three distinct zones :
Unique Experiences
In the Wine Roads of Northern Greece network, the Lake Route offers three wineries to explore in Siatista and Velventos. Finally, discover the rare, boiled wines of Eratyra and Pelekanos. This ancient technique, where the must is concentrated by boiling it (serbeti) before fermentation, offers a sweet tasting experience that you will only find locally.
Varietal Composition and History
From the slopes of Mount Askio (Siatista, Galatini, Eratyra, Pelekanos) to the banks of the Aliakmonas River (Aiani, Messiani, Roditis, Velventos), Xinomavro and Moschomavro continue to hold a prominent position. Although older varieties such as Pitsiariko, Vapsa, Voulgariko, and Kokkinouska have fallen behind, the region has been revitalised through their combination with international grape varieties such as Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Gewürztraminer.
Protected Geographical Indications (PGI)
Wine production is organised into three distinct zones :
- PGI Siatista (1993): This region is renowned for its exquisite sun-dried wines (liasta or iliasta), crafted through partial dehydration of the grapes in the shade. These wines mature for years in barrels, representing the historical legacy of the town, complemented by grape varieties such as Preknadi and Chondromavro.
- PGI Velventos (2000): This region produces dry wines with a distinct character. The Tsapournakos variety (a local clone of Cabernet Franc) stands out, as do the Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Limniona, and Batiki varieties.
- PGI Kozani (2008): This encompasses the entire Regional Unit, producing wines of every type and showcasing varieties such as Limnio, Cinsaut, and Ugni Blanc.
Unique Experiences
In the Wine Roads of Northern Greece network, the Lake Route offers three wineries to explore in Siatista and Velventos. Finally, discover the rare, boiled wines of Eratyra and Pelekanos. This ancient technique, where the must is concentrated by boiling it (serbeti) before fermentation, offers a sweet tasting experience that you will only find locally.
