The demarcated area for the production of PGI Thessaloniki (ΠΓΕ Θεσσαλονίκη) wines comprises all the regions of Thessaloniki’s prefecture in Central Macedonia, at an altitude of 50-800 meters.

The characteristics
The prefecture of Thessaloniki (Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece) is surrounded by the Thermaikos gulf to the west and the Strymonikos gulf to the east. It is a broad viticultural area with vineyards that extend from the shores of Thermaikos gulf to the slopes of Mount Vertiskos. The climate can be broadly described as Mediterranean.

Wine types:

• White dry
• Rosé dry
• Red dry

The grape varieties

A number of indigenous and international grape varieties are responsible for some excellent wines made under the PGI Thessaloniki designation. In terms of white grapes, Malagousia and Assyrtiko are beautifully adapted in the region and the same applies for the red grape Xinomavro. There are also some distinct examples of Chardonnay and Syrah sourced from the region.

Permitted grape varieties:

White Wines
Indigenous: Athiri, Assyrtiko, Zoumiatiko, Malagousia Roditis, Savatiano
International: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Ugni Blanc, Viognier

Red Wines
Indigenous: Limnio, Xinomavro, Pamidi
International: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, Grenache Rouge, Merlot, Syrah.

Rosé wines
Indigenous: Roditis, Xinomavro
International: Cinsault, Grenache Rouge, Merlot