Rhodes Wine Greece
“Experience Rhodes Wine: From Aegean Vineyards to Sparkling Perfection”
Rhodes Wine: the ancient peoples of Rhodes, followers of Hermes Kerdoos, the God of profit, were well aware of the value of trade, a fact proven by various historical sources. Thanks to the favorable location of Rhodes, close to the Asian continent, close to other greek cities and the eastern populations, its importance in the trade of the Hellenic world was enormous, considering its size.
Rhodes was known to be one of the first islands in the Aegean to practice the cultivation of the grape and apply the winemaking process.
Supported by its naval power, The Island of The Sun became the most famous nectar of the gods and grape harvest market from the mid 7th century BC, which brought incredible fortunes to the island .
Archaeological finds, inscriptions and literary sources are the major sources of information regarding this trade in ancient times. Thanks to meny arheological findings we know today that amphorae and terracotta pots were used above all to transport and sell Rhodes wine as well as for other products such as oil , olives and dried fruit.
Wine in Rhodes
Amphorae were produced in a variety of shapes and colors. These features help us to distinguish their origin. All the amphorae were built with narrow necks so that they could be corked. Two opposite vertical handles were also added and at the bottom a sharp base or knob that could be used as a third handle to pour the contents of the amphora once turned upside down. The findings lead us to the conclusion that this type of amphorae has been built since the seventh century BC
Amphorae were indispensable for trade and their shape was perfectly suited to use. Their pointed base ensured a good fit between the anchors positioned horizontally in two or three rows in the holds of the ships, improving the balance of the ship and optimizing the use of space.
The study of amphorae is the key to the history of the nectar of the gods trade in antiquity. The characteristics of the amphorae differed from city state to city state so much that they became almost a symbol of each.
Rhodes Wine
Stamped handles of amphorae have been found throughout the Mediterranean area and in hundreds of ancient sites around the Danube River, the Black Sea and even India.
These amphorae were also marked with a couple of stamps containing the rose or the rayed head of the Sun God, Elios .
Speculation tells us that at some point there must have been bibliographic indexes of the authorities and dates marked on the stamps, but unfortunately no records of these lists have been found. The potters inscribed their names and bunches of grapes on the amphorae they produced, further proof that the amphorae came from a Rhodian artisans and their contents from local vineyards . Many centuries later the indication of Controlled Origin was adopted by the French. Today it is an internationally adopted practice.
Precursors of the modern naming system, amphora stamps also contained two names. One was an endorsement of an authorized vendor and the other the name of an annually appointed official, such as the Chief Priest of Rhodes , who also served as a date reference.
Wines of Rhodes: Athiri and Amoriano, the treasures of the Greek island
The island of Rhodes, in addition to its enchanting beaches and historical sites, is also famous for its millennia-old winemaking tradition. Among the most celebrated indigenous grape varieties are Athiri and Amoriano, two varieties that represent the essence of the island’s nectar of the gods and the passion of local producers.
Athiri: the aromatic and versatile white
Athiri is a white grape variety with white berries, mainly widespread in the sunny and windy areas of the island. Athiri are distinguished by their fresh and fruity aroma, with notes of apple, peach, and white flowers.
These wines are generally light and flavorful, perfect for accompanying fish dishes, Mediterranean salads, and fresh cheeses. The versatility of Athiri also makes it ideal as an aperitif during the island’s warm summer evenings.
Amoriano: the historic and full-bodied red
Amoriano, also known as Mandilaria, is an indigenous red grape variety that produces full-bodied with an intense color and soft tannins. Its flavor evokes notes of ripe red fruits, delicate spices, and a slight mineral aftertaste reminiscent of the island’s volcanic soils. Amoriano are perfect paired with meat dishes, roasts, and aged cheeses, and are appreciated by both tourists and true connoisseurs of Greek wines.
The tradition
Athiri and Amoriano are not just beverages: they represent the culture, history, and tradition of Rhodes, handed down from generation to generation. Local producers continue to produce wines using traditional methods, often combined with modern techniques to achieve superior quality and international recognition.
Why try these
Tasting a glass of Athiri or Amoriano means immersing yourself in the authentic flavors of the island, experiencing a unique sensory journey, and discovering the rich food and wine culture of Greece. Whether you are a lover of fresh white or full-bodied reds, this island offers a journey through aromas, history, and tradition that remains in the heart of every visitor.
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