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Rhodes was the region’s largest wine exporter as early as the 7th century BC, owing to its strong maritime presence. Rhodes wines grew in popularity, even after the Knights of St John occupied the island in the early 14th century. The conquest of the island by Suleiman the Magnificent’s Ottoman army in 1522 marked the beginning of a very difficult period in grape cultivation that lasted until the Italians took control of the island in 1912.
There are few places in the world where you can find such a perfect combination of climate, soil, and terroir as the island of Rhodes. The island’s unique microclimate, with its mild winters and long hot summers, is ideal for viticulture. The soil is also very suitable for grapevines, being a mix of clay and limestone with good drainage. This makes for wines that are both well-structured and full of flavor.
The island has been producing wine for over 3,000 years, and today there are over 50 wineries producing a wide variety of wines. The most popular varieties grown on Rhodes are Mandilaria, Athiri, and Assyrtiko, which are used to make red, white, and rosé wines. Rhodes also produces some excellent dessert wines, made from the Muscat of Rhodes grape.
The vineyards of the island
Rhodes’ delectable dishes are paired with savory local wines from the island’s wineries, which maintain a long-standing tradition dating back to antiquity. The wineries produce excellent wine and have received international recognition.
From May to September, the Rhodes Vineyards benefit from the sun, frequent rainfall, and a cool sea breeze. Winters are short and rainy. However, there is no rain during the growing season. The cool winds during the summer help the soil temperature for good winemaking.
Winemakers have improved local varieties while also encouraging the growth of some foreign varieties.
The best way to explore Rhodes wines is to book a wine-tasting experience!
The top Rhodes wines
1. Athiri
Athiri is a vine that thrives in arid and warm Aegean climates and can grow in a wide range of soil types. It produces wines with moderate flavor intensity, focusing primarily on white and yellow fruits, moderate alcohol levels, soft acidity, and a medium body, displaying freshness and vivacity. Athiri is grown throughout the Aegean Islands, as well as in the high vineyards of PDO Rhodes.
2. Muscat
Are you looking for sweet or dessert wines? Consider the Rhodian white muscat! Sweet wines are widely available in Rhodes’ wineries. Outstanding complexity with flavors of fragrant rose petals, ripe fruit, and bergamot.
With moderate acidity and aging potential, this wine is refreshing on the palate. Sweet versions gain an intricate spiciness while retaining their sweetness when aged in oak.
3. Amorgiano
In terms of reds, the dominant variety is Amorgiano, which is actually a Mandilaria that bears this name because locals believe it originated on the Greek island of Amorgos. Traditionally, it produces rustic wines with aggressive tannins, intense color, and high acidity that are difficult to enjoy when young. Because of its abundance, this grape is frequently blended with other grapes to soften the edges of its rugged nature. Muscat wine of Rhodes consists of white Muscat Blanc and Muscat di Trani.
Despite the abundance of indigenous varieties, winemakers also cultivate international grapes, most notably Grenache Rouge, whose high yields have resulted in quality issues.
Wrapping up
If you’re looking for a wine that truly captures the essence of Rhodes, then look no further than the Rhodes wines from Domaine Sigalas. These wines are made from grapes grown in the island’s best vineyards, and they capture the unique climate and terroir of Rhodes perfectly. The Assyrtiko is particularly impressive, with its rich minerality and zesty acidity. So if you’re looking for a taste of the real Rhodes, be sure to try the wines from Domaine Sigalas.
