Overview
The Ionian Islands lie off the western coast of mainland Greece and receive significantly more rainfall than the Aegean archipelago. Kefalonia leads production with its PDO Robola, while Zakynthos is famous for Verdea, an oxidative white blend born of Venetian influence. Lefkada, Corfu, Ithaca and Kythira add further diversity to this compact region.
A humid Mediterranean climate, marked altitudinal variation and fertile soils support Robola, Mavrodaphne, Muscat, Vostilidi and Avgoustiatis. The wines tend to be fresh, lower in alcohol and aromatic, with a distinct maritime character that sets them apart from Greece's drier eastern islands.
Key Varietals
- RobolaKefalonia's flagship white, producing crisp, mineral wines with citrus and almond notes.
- MavrodaphneFound on Kefalonia and the mainland, used for sweet fortified reds with dried fruit.
- VostilidiA Kefalonian white used in blends and Verdea, adding body and herbal complexity.
- AvgoustiatisA Zakynthos red giving fresh, red-berry wines with herbal and earthy undertones.
Region snapshot
Climate
Humid Mediterranean
Rainfall
High
Soil Types
Limestone, clay and marl