Peloponesse is a large region with varied topography and geological characteristics that accounts for around 30% of the total wine output in Greece.

In the medieval times Peloponesse was particularly known for its southern port city of Monemvasia, which gave its name to Malvasia wine (the English corruption of Malmsey)

In modern times, the most important viticultural sub-regions include Nemea, the heartland of the red Agiorgitiko grape, Mantinia and Patras. 

Local Grapes

The Peloponesse region is mainly devoted to white wines, of which the prolific Roditis grape is one of the most planted, especially in the north. There are different clones producing wines of varied quality although serious producers have isolated quality clones, and they practice low-yield viticulture on high altitude vineyards for best results. Roditis wines are fleshy and full-bodied, dry with fairly low acidity and aromas reminiscent of melons and peaches. Alongside Roditis, Moschofilero produces aromatic white and rose wines with high acidity and low alcohol. 

Agiorgitiko produces some of the finest examples of indigenous red wines, sometimes blended with a small proportion of locally planted Cabernet Sauvignon and/or Merlot.

Mavrodafni, the signature cultivar of Patras, is probably one of the longest established Greek varieties in the foreign markets. It is responsible for the lusciously sweet, red fortified wine of the same name under the Mavrodafni of Patras appellation.