📍 Thessaly

Thessaly is a region in central Greece, the largest plain in the country, surrounded by mountains. In the north Mount Olympus rises above the plain, and in the east lies the Gulf of Volos. The Meteora monastery complex, on the UNESCO list, is also here. The climate is continental on the plain, with hot summers and cold winters, and milder on the slopes and by the sea.

Vineyards lie on mountain slopes and uplands. The best-known zone is Rapsani, on the slopes of Olympus: the wine here is made from a blend of three red grapes, Xinomavro, Krassato and Stavroto. Red Rapsani is aged in oak and turns out rich, with scents of berries and spice. Anchialos near Volos is known for white wines.

Rare local grapes grow in Thessaly too. Limniona is a red grape being revived by local winemakers. Krassato gives dark, aromatic wines. Other small zones include Krannonas, Magnesia, Meteora, Elassona and Karditsa. Red, white and rosé wines are made.

For comparison with its neighbours: to the north lies Macedonia with Naoussa, to the south Central Greece and Attica, and to the west the Pindus mountains.