International Xinomavro Day: Honoring Greece’s Premier Grape on November 1st

Xinomavro, the leading wine grape of Northern Greece, is celebrated worldwide every 1st of November, marking “International Xinomavro Day”.

Recognizing the importance and uniqueness of Xinomavro, one of the country’s top wine varieties, along with its global appeal, winemakers of Northern Greece first celebrated the grape wine for its exceptional quality and unique character in 2019.

This initiative was met with an enthusiastic response across Greece and has since been embraced internationally.

November 1st was allocated as the official celebration date, aligning with the end of the grape’s harvest season but also because the simplicity of “1” symbolizes its rank as the leading grape variety of Northern Greece.

Over recent years, Greece’s winemaking has made significant strides in both the production and quality of fine wines, elevating the image of Greek vineyards and branded wines in both domestic and international markets.

“Indigenous varieties like Xinomavro deserve a place in the global consciousness, alongside international varieties,” the Association affirms.

Xinomavro, Greece’s ambassador grape, is gaining acclaim, redefining itself, evolving, and, above all, winning hearts worldwide, especially in Greece. This year, the Winemakers of Northern Greece are organizing two main events for the public to honor Xinomavro:

In Athens: A masterclass titled “Aspects of Xinomavro” led by Master Sommelier Eleftherios Hanialidis at the Divani Caravel Hotel

In Thessaloniki: A themed tasting event, “Xinomavro Tasting Flights,” at The Wine Hub.

These celebrations offer wine enthusiasts and newcomers alike an opportunity to explore and appreciate the distinctive qualities of Xinomavro.