Kos

Kos

From 36° 51' 00" N to 36° 55' 00" N

LATITUDE

From 27° 11' 00" E to 27° 18' 00" E

LONGITUDE

0

APPELATIONS

about this subregion

The Kos sub-region, nestled in the heart of Greece, is a captivating destination for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This enchanting region boasts a unique environment that contributes to the cultivation of a diverse range of grape varieties, making it a true haven for viticulture.

The climate in the Kos sub-region is Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The island's proximity to the Aegean Sea plays a crucial role in moderating temperatures and providing cooling breezes, creating an ideal setting for grape cultivation. The terroir here is marked by its volcanic soils, which lend distinct mineral qualities to the wines produced in the region.

Among the main grape varieties grown in the Kos sub-region, red wines are dominated by Mandilaria, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon. These grapes thrive in the warm climate and produce wines known for their depth, complexity, and rich flavors. On the white grape front, the region's most planted varieties include Muscat of Alexandria, Athiri, Malagouzia, and Assyrtiko. These grapes give birth to refreshing white wines with a crisp acidity and delightful aromatics.

Exploring the wines of the Kos sub-region offers a delightful journey through the flavors of Greece, where ancient traditions and a unique environment converge to create exceptional wines that reflect the region's character and history.

Associations

vinerra illustration
0

Vineyard Hectares

0

WINERIES

2,800 - 3,200

GROWING DEGREE DAYS

Discover Terroir

Situated approximately 4 kilometers off the coast of Turkey, Kos is part of the Aegean Islands wine region, located in Greece. The island's vineyards are nestled amid its beautiful landscapes, benefitting from the Mediterranean climate and cooling sea breezes. Kos's idyllic setting, with its gently rolling hills and ample sunlight, provides an ideal environment for grape cultivation.

The Kos wine region has a classic Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the days, the vines receive plenty of sunshine, which combined  with the  warm temperatures during the growing season helps promote a slower and better ripening of the grapes. In this region,  the sea's proximity and the northerly winds are key to moderate the extreme heat during the summer. 

The composition of the island's soil has a significant influence on the character of Kos wines. The vineyards of the region are characterized by the diversity of their soils, among which volcanic and calcareous soils predominate.

  • The volcanic soils are rich in minerals and nutrients, providing essential nourishment to the grapevines.
  • On the other hand, the limestone soils contribute to the wines' elegant minerality, a distinctive trait of Kos's terroir.

Discover

Most Planted Red Grape Varieties: Mandilaria, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon

Most Planted White Grape Varieties:  Muscat of Alexandria, Athiri, Malagouzia, Assyrtiko

The Kos wine region boasts a rich viticultural heritage with a diverse range of grape varieties and wine styles.

Among the most common red wines in this region, the indigenous grape variety, Mandilaria, takes center stage. Mandilaria produces full-bodied and deeply colored wines with a delightful balance of red fruit flavors, subtle spice notes, and a touch of earthiness. These wines often exhibit medium to high acidity, making them versatile companions for a wide array of Mediterranean dishes. Additionally, Kos vintners may blend Mandilaria with other local varieties or international grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah to create more complex and harmonious red blends.

On the white wine front, the island thrives on showcasing the famous Muscat of Alexandria grape, locally known as Moschato. These aromatic white wines captivate the senses with their enchanting floral bouquet, prominent citrusy notes, and a pleasing touch of sweetness. Often enjoyed as a refreshing aperitif or paired with light seafood dishes, Moschato wines from Kos display a delightful harmony between their fragrance and flavors. Apart from Moschato, Kos vintners may also produce white wines from indigenous varieties like Athiri and Assyrtiko, which offer a distinct regional character to the blends.

The Kos wine region prides itself on preserving its traditional winemaking methods while embracing modern techniques to ensure the highest quality wines. Visitors to the region can explore charming family-owned wineries and larger estates, all offering warm hospitality and opportunities to savor the island's diverse wine offerings. Whether one chooses the vibrant and expressive reds of Mandilaria or the enticing aromatic whites of Moschato, the wines of Kos embody the essence of the Aegean Islands' winemaking heritage.

arrow-back-to-top