The best wines from Thessaly

Viticulture takes place only in the peripheral areas of the plains. The climate in Thessaly is comparatively humid; this encourages the formation of fungal diseases on the vines. Until now, viticulture has played only a modest role in Thessaly, but the growing price drive on grain and cotton now makes the cultivation of vines attractive. Recommended grape varieties are Assyrtiko, Roditis and Limnio, complemented by the international varieties Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Also permitted are the Cinsault and Batiki varieties. According to an analysis by the Viticultural Institute of Athens, the region has a variety with high quality and good ageing potential; the individual Limniona. It was therefore recently included in the list of recommended varieties.