Greek wines have made a spectacular entry into the hospitality sector in the US, and Florida in particular, with better quality products and improved distribution.
Greece has a long history of winemaking, dating back over 6,000 years, and produces a wide range of high-quality wines. However, it was only in recent decades that Greek winemakers began reimagining traditional methods while integrating modern techniques, resulting in the revival of its wine industry.
Thanks to the efforts of Cretan entrepreneur George Merlemis, Greek wines are becoming sought-after in the US and Florida in particular. Not only in Greek restaurants but in American restaurants too.
Merlemis, who operates some of the best Greek restaurants in South Florida, started the import and distribution business of Greek wines a few years ago.
“There has been a renaissance of the Greek vineyard in the last 25 years,” he told Greek Reporter. “We improved the distribution and capitalized on the trend for Greek wines.”
He said that white wines imported from Greece were of great quality, but “we had a problem with the red which was not very competitive. Now Greek red is also making a splash.”
Merlemis who operates Kyma, Opa Taverna, Giorgio’s Bakery in Florida is educating Americans on Greek wines and Greek hospitality. He says that he decided to start the import business because he wanted his restaurants to have the best quality wines from Greece.
“We offer the whole package in our restaurants. From the quality of the food, the wines, the decor and the Greek hospitality,” the Greek entrepreneur says.
“Greek food is very popular in the US. Recently, restaurants with Greek food have been opened by foreigners. Greek cuisine does not have many techniques, but it is the repository of the material. Good materials, good raw materials. If we exclude pastitsio and moussaka, Greek cuisine does not have much technique. This is the advantage of Greek cuisine.”
Types of Greek wines that are popular in Florida
Returning to Greek wines, Merlemis says that the “tip of the spear” of penetration in the US market was the Assyrtiko from Santorini. A white grape native to Santorini, Assyrtiko produces crisp, mineral wines with citrus and white fruit flavors.
Other regions of Greece also produce the Assyrtiko and they are also exported to the US market.
Moschofilero is another favorite with grapes growing in the area of central Peloponnese, producing a dry, crispy white wine that is full of aromas. Agioritiko and Malagouzia are also excellent varieties that are being imported by Merlemis.
The Greek entrepreneur says that Greek red wines are also making progress in the US market, especially Xinomavro, a red wine grape of the uplands of Naousa in the regional unit of Imathia, and around Amyntaio, in Macedonia.
“In terms of quality in white wines, Greece is ahead of the competition and on reds is catching up,” Merlemis said.
Greek wines are a delicious and versatile addition to any meal. With so many different wines to choose from, there is sure to be a Greek wine that everyone will enjoy.
“A very good job is being done in Greece with the wines and this can be seen in the US as well. 30 years ago we exported Achaia Klaus and Demestica and Cambas wines to the USA. Now Greek wines are more refined, wine companies are more professional.”
He noted that Greek wines have undergone a remarkable quality transformation, shedding old stereotypes of being merely inexpensive and simple. Today, Greek winemakers strive for excellence, promoting quality over quantity.
He also noted the improvement in the packaging and labeling of the product and added that in the US there is a trend towards European wines.
Changing consumer preferences have also played a significant role in the growing popularity of Greek wines. Modern wine drinkers seek authenticity, compelling narratives, and unique tasting experiences.
“California and Argentina had the same flavor profile. People are now more informed, travel more and are more open to trying other flavors. Also, many Greek restaurants have opened and people have easier access to Greek wines.”
Merlemis also noted that Greek bottled water and mastiha spirits are gaining ground in Florida and the US in general.