At a glance
From the foothills of Vermio to the lakes of Amyntaio and the slopes of Mount Pangaio, Macedonia reveals its viticultural majesty through diverse microclimates. Greet the noble Xinomavro of Naoussa and Amyntaio, and enjoy a unique palette of Greek and international varieties that have found their most dynamic expression in the vineyards of Drama. Embark on a multi-dimensional journey of taste among endless vineyards, picturesque villages, wonderful landscapes, unique monuments, and authentic wine experiences. The Wine Roads of Northern Greece are an exploration filled with culture, nature, and hospitality that unfolds in your glass. Prepare yourself for the experience!
To the rhythm of wine: Festivals and celebrations throughout the year
Macedonia celebrates its wine all year round through a series of top wine events that focus on the richness of aromas and taste characteristics of Macedonian wine.
In autumn (late September to early October), the VorOina tasting events draw the top winemakers of Northern Greece to Thessaloniki (and Athens in late January to early February).
On 1 November, the Winemakers of Northern Greece Association celebrates International Xinomavro Day with wine events in Athens and Thessaloniki. Masterclasses, specialised presentations, and tastings will give you the opportunity to discover every version of this multi-faceted variety of the Macedonian land.
On the second Sunday of November, as part of World Wine Tourism Day, and in May, as part of the nationwide Open Doors initiative, the wineries of the Wine Roads of Northern Greece welcome wine lovers with tours, tastings of current and aged vintages, and many more surprises.
Lastly, in May, Dramoinognosia turns Drama into an open festival of wine culture with tours, tastings, thematic workshops, local delicacies, theatre, music, and dance. Let the route lead you and let the wine tell you its own story.
Route information
Distance
55 km
Estimated duration
1h 20min
Difficulty level
Easy
Route type
Road
Route Category
Linear
When to go
The region is magical all year round, offering different experiences to visitors depending on the season. The most enchanting period to travel to Naousa is during the harvest, from October until early November. The aroma of fresh grapes and their sweet juices fills the air, the vineyards are buzzing with life, while many wineries host special events and happenings for wine lovers.
Did you know?
At the foothills of Mt Vermio, Naousa is the place where Xinomavro – the most emblematic red variety of Northern Greece – is expressed with depth and character, producing dry, semi-dry, and semi-sweet full-bodied wines with good structure. Spanning an area of 700 hectares, the viticultural zone of Naousa is the home of PDO Naousa red wines. The mountainsides, the cold north winds, and the unique microclimate of the area mould robust wines with fruity aromas and strong tannins that evolve over the years, much like the land that produces them.
