The Protected Geographical Indications Halkidiki
The demarcated area for the production of PGI Halkidiki (ΠΓΕ Χαλκιδική) wines comprises the entire prefecture of Halkidiki in the southern part of Central Macedonia.
The characteristics
Halkidiki consists of three finger-like peninsulas extending into the Aegean Sea: Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos (Holy Mountain). The presence of mountains such as Holomontas and Athos in combination with the vineyards’ proximity to the sea, influence the region’s climate. This is broadly described as Mediterranean. Winters are mild and summers are generally cooler, with a wide diurnal temperature range due to many vineyards’ altitude. A significant proportion of plantings is located in the western part of the region. More recently, there has been a growth in plantings in the northwestern, mountainous part of Halkidiki.
PGI Halkidiki
For the production of dry white wine P.G.I. Sithonia a specific modern technology for the production of white wines is used, with the temperature during alcoholic fermentation not exceeding 20°C. The white wines are distinguished by their bright white-yellow color, aromatic nose of flowers and fruits, balanced full-bodied taste and aromatic aftertaste.
For the production of dry red wine P.G.I. Sithonia, the classic red wine-making method is used. The red wines are distinguished by their deep, purple color, clear and complex aromatic nose, their special fleshy body and long aromatic aftertaste.
Wine types:
• White dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet
• Rosé dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet
• Red dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet,
Varieties
The grape varieties
The varieties Limnio (one of the oldest Greek varieties) Xinomavro, Malagousia and increasingly Assyrtiko play a major role in the vineyards of PGI Halkidiki. The international Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah grapes have also a strong presence in the area.
Permitted grape varieties:
White Wines
Indigenous: Malagousia, Muscat of Alexandria, Roditis, Assyrtiko, Athiri
International: Sauvignon Blanc, Ugni Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier
Red Wines
Indigenous: Xinomavro, Limnio, Merlot
International: Grenache Rouge, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon
Rosé wines
Indigenous: Xinomavro, Roditis
International: Grenache Rouge, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon
