By the time you are reading this, I will be gone. I am spending 2 weeks with my family in the Peloponnese. We have arranged for some friends to stay at our home in the meantime, so this takes away the worries of leaving an unoccupied house. I honestly can’t recall when it was the last time that I took such a long vacation. I won’t be completely out of the picture, but we are visiting some remote areas and Internet access will be limited at times.
The Peloponnese is of course hugely important as a vine growing area and I will be on the lookout for any new exciting finds. We are spending our first week in the prefecture of Laconia, which is located in the most southern part of the Peloponnese. The area is full of viticultural treasures and there are many indigenous grape varieties that can only be found here. Although Laconia has been historically very significant for wines, it was not until 1990 that commercial wineries were established. By now, some truly exciting wines are being produced. Top wineries include Vatistas, Theodorakakou and the Monemvasia Winery.
The second week we will travel to the northwest, to the prefecture of Ilia. It is here that we have family roots, as the late father of my wife was born in the village of Zaharo. Just 25 years ago it was hard to find any producer who bottled their wine. A lot has changed since – top quality producers like Kokkalis and the Mercouri Estate are located in Ilia.
Markus, I am so delighted for you and your family. I know you will read this upon your return. I hope you have ZERO internet access while you are gone so you can have a true vacation! Enjoy every minute… We will all be here when you get back and look forward to your posts and your new discoveries. Have a fabulous time with “your lot”.
Viviane, thank you so much for your wishes. I cannot do with zero Internet access, but will limit it, I promise. My lot is already in full holiday mood, we are here with extended family and friends. Lots of swimming, freshly prepared food, siestas, reading and of course wine – you would love this!