WINE-PRODUCING REGIONS | FLORINA

FLORINA

Florina is characterized by an almost continental climate and is the coldest wine-growing region in the country. At its heart lies the Amyntaion plateau, one of the most important wine-growing zones in Greece. The Amyntaio vineyard is located northwest of Naoussa, between the Vermio and Vorras mountain ranges, with Xinomavro dominating the plantings. The climate of the area is particularly cool, with a thermal sum of approximately 1,500–1,600 degree days, which is due both to the altitude of 500 to 700 meters and to the presence of four lakes, the most important of which is Vegoritida. Located on the leeward side of Vermio, Amyntaio receives smaller amounts of rain and enjoys more hours of sunshine compared to neighboring Naoussa. The soils of the area have been created from coarse-grained alluvial deposits around the lakes, on a limestone base, and are mainly sandy, hot and poor in nutrients. These characteristics give the wines from Xinomavro a different profile compared to those of Naoussa. The mild and relatively humid climate makes the area suitable for the cultivation of several international varieties. The vineyards are mainly linear and the majority are cultivated without irrigation. Amyntaio is the only PDO zone in Greece where the production of rosé still, as well as rosé sparkling wines, is of such great importance. Most sparkling wines are produced using the closed tank method, while only a small percentage follow the traditional method.