PGI Slopes of Kithaironas
(ΠΓΕ Πλαγιές Κιθαιρώνα)

The production zone of PGI Slopes of Kithaironas (ΠΓΕ Πλαγιές Κιθαιρώνα) comprises parts of two districts. One of them is located in the western part of Attiki and includes the area of Erythres, while the other is located in Boeotia prefecture and includes the area of Plataies. It’s an up-coming viticultural zone where both native and international varieties have adapted well to the local terroir.

Terroir
An imposing mountain is the physical boundary between Boeotia in the north and Attiki in the south. It is largely covered in pine trees at higher altitudes, while the vineyards are spread throughout the slopes at altitudes up to 500m above sea-level. The climate can be described as Mediterranean with continental influences. During the winter, heavy snow can cover the vineyards. There is a significant diurnal temperature range
during the growing season and this results in a slow, yet fullmaturation of the grapes. The soils are mostly clay loam and sandy loam and the best vineyards are located on well-drained gentle slopes, as good rainfall in the zone can is common.

The varieties
The terroir of Kithaironas hosts a significant number of indigenous and international grape varieties. White-wine production is dominated by grapes such as Assyrtiko, Malagousia and Savatiano, to a lesser extent. The wines are upfront, fresh and harmonious with pleasant acidity levels. Red wines are mainly crafted from international grape varieties. Here the “stars” are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. The wine styles range from fresh and fruity to rich, dense and cellar worthy.

History
As evidence from historical texts and archaeological findings show, viticulture took place in the area of Erythres at least since 2.500 BC. There are also many archeological sites in the broader region such as the Oracle of Kithaironas, the cave of Dionysus Nymphs or the cave of “Sfragidio”. The ancient city of Eleutherae was a worship center of Dionysus and was located on the border between Attiki and Boeotia. The cult of Dionysus was transferred from here to Athens. The feast of “Dionýsia”, originally an Eleutherean festival in celebration of the new harvest was the event that led to the creation of what was then a completely new literary and artistic genre: the Theatre. Consequently, at the Theatre of Dionysus, the priest of
Dionysus Eleuthereus was the principal honoree and his ornate marble throne was center-placed in the front row of the spectator seats.