What is a Periurban Vineyard?
Periurban vineyards are agricultural treasures that flourish on the fringes of bustling cities, merging the dynamic energy of urban life with the serene traditions of wine cultivation. These vineyards sit at the interface of cityscapes and countryside, offering a unique blend of urban accessibility and rural charm. Prominent examples in Europe include Vienna's scenic Grinzing district, Paris's iconic Montmartre, and Lisbon's vibrant Chão do Rio project. Each of these locations not only produces outstanding wines but also serves as a testament to the sustainable integration of green spaces within urban environments.
The Periurban Vineyards of Greece
Greece, renowned for its ancient winemaking heritage, boasts several notable periurban vineyards. Among these, the periurban vineyard of Athens or the vineyards of Attica stand out. The ancient Greeks were known for cultivating vineyards in Attica, particularly around Athens and the surrounding areas. This region, with its historical depth and favorable climate, has long been a cradle of Greek wine culture.
The Historical Significance of the Periurban Vineyard of Athens
Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, is encircled by vineyards that have thrived for millennia. These periurban vineyards have been integral to the city's cultural and economic life since ancient times. They provided wines for both everyday enjoyment and ceremonial use, weaving a rich tapestry of Greek history. The periurban vineyards of Athens extend through several key areas, including Spata, Pikermi, Koropi, Paiania, Markopoulo, and the historic town of Marathon.
The vineyards of the Messoghia plain, however, have faced significant challenges due to urban expansion. The Messoghia plain, known for producing popular retsina table wine mainly from Savatiano and Rhoditis grape varieties, has experienced a drastic reduction in agricultural land. From the 1960s through the 1990s, East Attica, which occupies approximately half of the total regional crops and represents 85% of the total regional vine culture, witnessed discontinuous urban expansion, leading to the loss of large tracts of agricultural land, primarily composed of vineyards and raisin crops. In contrast, the vegetable-growing areas in Marathon and Megara have been less affected by urban sprawl.
Marathon: The Most Historic Town of Attica
Marathon is a town steeped in history and significance. Known globally for the legendary Battle of Marathon, it is also a vital part of Attica's winemaking tradition. The landscape of Marathon is a living testament to its storied past, with fertile lands that have been cultivated for thousands of years. The town’s proximity to the sea enhances its agricultural richness, making it an ideal location for vineyards. The archaeological site of Ramnous, within Marathon, offers a unique historical context, making the vineyards here unlike any other in Europe. Ramnous was once a significant fortified city, and its well-preserved ruins provide a stunning and historically rich backdrop to our vineyards.
The Unique Vineyard of Marathon
The terroir of Marathon is exceptional. The Zeginis family proudly cultivates 15 hectares of vineyards in this historically rich and beautiful area. Our vineyards benefit immensely from their location within the Ramnous archaeological area, an area of absolute protection that ensures the landscape remains undisturbed. The soil in Marathon is mineral-rich, contributing a distinctive minerality to our wines. Additionally, the proximity to the sea means our vineyards are regularly refreshed by a gentle sea breeze, adding a crisp freshness to our grapes. This unique combination of mineral-rich soil and sea breeze creates a terroir that imparts unparalleled character and quality to our wines.
Despite the general decline of the primary sector over the years, periurban agriculture still offers significant advantages and employment opportunities, particularly in times of economic instability. According to national statistics for 2017, the total cultivated agricultural land in the region of Attica was 41,315 hectares, with 2,292 hectares of fallow land. Productive transformations of fallow land, especially in more accessible rural areas during crises, have led to increased tree crops, including vines and olives. Almost half of the existing regional farmland is mainly covered by tree plantations (20,077 hectares), with 14% dedicated to vines and only 8% to vegetable cultivation.
Our Exceptional Wines: Ramnous by Zeginis Winery
At Zeginis Winery, we are dedicated to producing wines that reflect the rich heritage and unique terroir of Marathon. Our principal variety is Savatiano, the indigenous grape of the Attica region. Savatiano is celebrated for its resilience and versatility, producing wines with remarkable aromas and character. Our Savatiano wine features a delightful bouquet of citrus and floral notes, coupled with a crisp acidity and refreshing minerality. The influence of the sea breeze and mineral-rich soil imparts a unique freshness and complexity to the wine, making it a true expression of the Marathon terroir. Each glass of our Savatiano wine offers a taste of history, tradition, and the natural beauty of this ancient land.
Visit Us and Experience the Legacy
We invite you to visit our vineyard in Marathon, explore the ancient landscapes, and indulge in our exquisite wines. Whether you are a local resident, a European traveler, or an American wine enthusiast, the periurban vineyard of Athens offers a unique opportunity to connect with history, culture, and nature.
Come, discover the legacy of Marathon and Athens through our wines, and let the spirit of ancient Greece captivate your senses. Join us at Zeginis Winery and experience the timeless tradition of Greek winemaking.
Written by
Zegini Chrysanthi
Enologist, MSc Enology - Viticulture, Bordeaux
Source :
Sofia Nikolaidou, Peri-urban agriculture and alternative food networks in Athens: Solidarity dynamics, spatial planning challenges and institutional reforms, Cahiers de la Méditerranée, 2021, URL: https://journals.openedition.org/cdlm/14449
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