🍷 Mavrodaphne of Patras

Mavrodaphne is a sweet red fortified wine from the Greek city of Patras in the north of the Peloponnese. It is made from the red grape Mavrodaphne, whose name means black laurel. The wine is one of Greece's calling cards and is sold under the protected name Mavrodaphne of Patras.

The method is the same as for many fortified wines. During fermentation, grape spirit is added to the juice, fermentation stops and the sugar stays in the wine. The wine then matures for a long time in oak barrels, sometimes in a system similar to solera, mixing wines of different years. The result is a thick, mahogany-coloured wine with aromas of raisin, coffee, chocolate and nut. Strength is usually at least 15%.

Mavrodaphne belongs to fortified and Greek wines. It is served in small portions with desserts, nuts and hard cheeses, at room temperature. The wine should not be confused with the grape of the same name, which is also used in other sweet and dry wines. Such wine should be enjoyed in moderation.