The History of Greek Wine for WSET Level 4 (Diploma)

In this series, we'll be delving into the captivating world of Greek wine. In Part 1, we'll provide an introduction to Greece's rich history, its geographical location within Europe, and the fascinating cultures that have influenced its winemaking traditions.

*Here's a breakdown of what we'll cover:*

*Greece's Geographic Location:* Greece, located at the southern edge of the Balkan Peninsula, is surrounded by various seas, such as the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and Libyan Sea. We'll explore its unique location on the European map.

*Ancient History:* Our journey will take us back thousands of years to the Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations, where wine played a central role in society and culture. We'll delve into the archaeological discoveries and the oldest wine press found in the region.

*The Influence of Dionysus:* Discover how Dionysus, the god of wine, influenced Greek culture, and how wine was enjoyed in those times, typically diluted with water.

*Symposia and Wine Festivals:* Explore the culture of symposia, which were social events centered around wine, and learn about wine festivals celebrated in ancient Greece.

*The Use of Amphorae and Pine Resin:* Understand how the ancient Greeks developed innovative storage techniques using amphorae and pine resin to preserve and transport their wines.

*Wine in Roman and Ottoman Times:* Discover how wine production declined during the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires and its resurgence in the 20th century.

*The Modern Greek Wine Renaissance:* Learn about the modern era of Greek wine, where quality and variety have flourished, and how Greece is now gaining recognition on the international stage.

Join us as we unravel the layers of Greece's wine heritage and explore its unique grape varieties and winemaking traditions. If you have any questions or insights about Greek wine or if you've tasted a remarkable Greek wine, please share your thoughts in the comments below. We look forward to your engagement.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of our Greek wine series, where we'll delve into the climate, geology, grape growing, and Vineyard management of this extraordinary country. Thank you for watching, and I'm Jimmy Smith, signing off for now. Cheers! 🍷🇬🇷

*For more exclusive content, visit our e-learning portal at www.winejimmy.com.*