The Nemea wine region, situated in the northeast corner of the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece, is one of the country’s most prestigious PDO zones and a true reference point for Greek red wines. Surrounded by neighbouring appellations such as Mantinia, Arcadia, and Corinthia, and close to the historic wine city of Argos, it has earned a reputation for producing wines of exceptional quality, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Winemaking here has ancient roots, with evidence dating back to at least the 5th century BC. According to Greek mythology, Heracles discovered the region while on his quest to slay the Nemean lion, and the wines of antiquity—known as Fliasion wines—were already celebrated for their excellence. Even today, the local red wine is often referred to as the “Blood of Heracles,” a nod to its deep colour and legendary heritage. The terroir of Nemea is remarkably diverse, encompassing low-lying alluvial plains, rolling hills, and high-altitude slopes that range from 250 to 800 metres above sea level. This variation in elevation creates distinct microclimates, allowing for a range of wine styles. The finest vineyards are often found at higher altitudes, where gravelly, free-draining red soils and cooler temperatures slow down the ripening process. This extended growing season helps maintain the natural acidity of the grapes and encourages the development of complex aromas and flavours. The soils, poor in nutrients and excellent at draining excess water, limit vine vigour and yield, concentrating the character of the fruit. In contrast, the warmer, lower-altitude vineyards near the village of Nemea produce softer, more approachable wines or sweeter styles, often made using carbonic maceration. At the heart of Nemea’s identity is the Agiorgitiko grape, one of Greece’s most important and versatile red varieties. This late-ripening grape thrives in the region’s varied terroirs, producing a remarkable range of wines, from light, fresh reds and rosés to structured, full-bodied examples capable of long ageing. The wines are typically deep ruby in colour, with aromas of ripe cherries, plums, and raspberries, often complemented by hints of spice, herbs, and, with age, notes of dried fruit and leather. Acidity tends to be moderate, while tannin levels can vary from smooth and silky in lighter styles to firm and gripping in wines from high-altitude vineyards. Sweet versions, made from late-harvest grapes, offer rich, concentrated flavours balanced by freshness. This combination of ancient history, varied landscapes, and the distinctive personality of Agiorgitiko makes Nemea one of Greece’s most iconic wine regions. Its wines embody both tradition and terroir, offering a depth and elegance that reflect the unique conditions of this part of the Peloponnese and ensuring their continued place among the finest wines of the Mediterranean.