Giannikos Winery Lion 2020

Region and Vineyards

Sourced from the Nemea region, one of Greece’s most renowned areas for premium Agiorgitiko wines, this wine benefits from a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm days and cool nights, allowing for optimal grape maturation.

The vineyards are organically certified, following European Organic Regulations (EC) No 834/2007, ensuring environmentally friendly viticulture and high-quality fruit. The soils, composed of limestone and clay, contribute to the wine’s structure and minerality, while the high-altitude sites preserve freshness and balance.

Winemaking

The hand-harvested grapes undergo meticulous sorting before vinification. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, with an extended maceration of 2 to 3 weeks, allowing for a gentle extraction of color, tannins, and aromatics.

The wine is then aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, adding complexity and softening the tannins. After bottling, it is further aged to ensure a harmonious integration of fruit, oak, and acidity, resulting in a well-balanced and structured wine.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby red.
• Aroma: Ripe plum and cherry, with hints of nutmeg and subtle spice.
• Palate: Smooth and full-bodied, with soft tannins, balanced acidity, and a long, elegant finish.

Did You Know?

The label of Lion Agiorgitiko pays homage to the first of the twelve labors of Hercules, in which he defeated the Nemean Lion. This symbolism reflects the strength and resilience of both the region and the wine itself.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Herb-roasted lamb – The wine’s soft tannins and spice notes enhance the rich flavors of the dish.
• Grilled pork chops – Its fruit-forward character complements the savory elements of the meat.
• Tomato-based pasta dishes – The wine’s balanced acidity aligns well with the bright, tangy tomato sauce.
• Mild sausages with Mediterranean herbs – The structure and acidity cut through the richness of the dish.

History of Giannikos Winery

The story of Giannikos Winery begins in 1896, the year of the first modern Olympic Games—and the same year the Giannikos family planted their first vines in the ancient soils of Mycenae, one of the oldest viticultural areas in Europe.

A century later, in 1996, a fire devastated the original estate buildings. However, driven by family legacy and vision, Michalis Giannikos rebuilt the winery in Ancient Corinth, expanded the vineyards, and committed fully to organic viticulture—making him one of the first in Greece to adopt this philosophy.

By 2009, Giannikos wines were being exported internationally. In 2012, the estate received its first international gold and silver medals. Since then, its wines have garnered multiple awards and growing global recognition.

Region and Vineyards

Giannikos Winery cultivates 8 hectares of vineyards across two key locations: Corinth and Mycenae. Both areas benefit from Mediterranean sunshine, cool sea breezes, and excellent drainage, ideal for producing expressive, fresh wines.

The vineyards are certified organic, and all work—from pruning to harvest—is done by hand. Soils are varied, and altitudes provide ideal conditions for slow, balanced ripening.

The estate honors Greek viticultural heritage by cultivating native varieties such as:

• Roditis – crisp and mineral-driven
• Agiorgitiko – the noble red of Nemea
• Malagouzia – aromatic and floral

Alongside these, Giannikos also vinifies international varieties such as Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Viognier, sourced from top French clones and adapted to the Greek terroir.

Wine Range of Giannikos Winery

Giannikos produces a diverse portfolio of single-varietal and blended wines, all organic and expressive:

• At Sea – crisp white with maritime freshness
• Windmill – a floral, citrusy Roditis
• Retsina – a clean, modern take on Greece’s most historic wine
• Swan Rosé – delicate Agiorgitiko rosé with aromatic finesse
• Lion Agiorgitiko​ & Prince – structured, fruit-driven reds
• Eclipse & Trojan Horse – premium cuvées with aging potential
• Late Harvest Viognier – dessert wine with exotic fruit character

Did you know?

The Giannikos vineyards lie near Mycenae, an ancient civilization considered the cradle of Greek winemaking—active for more than 4,000 years. Their wines are a continuation of this deep-rooted viticultural lineage.