A Guide to Eastern Mediterranean Wines

Regions like Greece, Turkey, Lebanon, Israel, and Cyprus, are some of the oldest winemaking countries in the world, with ancient recipes and native grapes, which have been passed down over thousands of years.

Recently, we’ve seen a new wave of producers from the Eastern Mediterranean, bringing exciting, diverse wines that are well worth exploring.

What Are Eastern Mediterranean Wines?

Eastern Mediterranean wines come from countries along the eastern edge of the Mediterranean Sea. Wines have been made here for over 6,000 years. Despite this ancient heritage, many of these countries have only recently begun gaining international recognition and importation in the UK.

Why Explore Eastern Mediterranean Wines Are Worth Exploring

Ancient and indigenous grapes:
Many Eastern Mediterranean countries grow grape varieties that don’t exist anywhere else in the world.

Diverse climates and soils:
From coastal vineyards to mountainous terraces and volcanic islands, the region provides a range of terroirs, which impact the flavour of the wine in the most interesting of ways.

Exceptional value:
As many of the Eastern Mediterranean countries don’t have the same recognition as those like France and Italy, prices are cheaper - but the wine is still high quality

Eastern Mediterranean Grapes to Look Out For

Greece

Greece is home to some of the world’s oldest winemaking traditions, and the wines are becoming increasingly popular in the UK.

Assyrtiko - a white grape from Santorino. It’s citrusy, floral, and mineral, with hints of stone fruits.
Xinomavro - a red grape often compared to Italy’s Nebbiolo. It offers bright red fruits, acidity, and grippy tannins.
Agiorgitiko - from Nemea, a town in Corinthia, this red grape produces juicy reds perfect for every-day drinking.

Lebanon

Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley is a high-altitude plateau that has been making wine since Phoenician times. Château Musar is one of the most famous wineries, known for blending Bordeaux varieties with indigenous grapes.

Obeideh - an indigenous white grape, sometimes compared to Chardonnay.
Merwah - a local white grape known for its crisp acidity and floral, nutty flavours.
More widely planted grapes such as Chardonnay, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are also grown in Lebanon.

Turkey

Turkey boasts over 1,000 indigenous grape varieties, although only a fraction are commercially cultivated.

Kalecik Karası - a native red grape producing light, aromatic wines.
Boğazkere - a bold, tannic red, often blended for structure.
Narince - an elegant white grape with notes of citrus and herbs.

Israel

Israel’s wine scene has grown rapidly in quality and diversity, with a strong focus on boutique production, sustainability, and reviving ancient varieties.

Marawi - an ancient, indigenous white grape known for its floral aromas and crisp acidity.
Bittuni: An ancient, indigenous red grape with high tannins and acidity.
Argaman: A local crossing of Souzão and Carignan, known for its deep colour and rich flavours.
Grapes like Carignan, Viognier, and Grenache are also widely grown

Cyprus

Cyprus has one of the world’s longest winemaking histories, dating back over 5,000 years. Its native grapes and high-altitude vineyards produce fresh, balanced wines with real character.

Xynisteri - a light, zesty white grape native to Cyprus.
Maratheftiko - a red grape producing deeply colored, aromatic wines.
Commandaria - a historic sweet wine made from sun-dried grapes, considered one of the oldest named wines still in production

Eastern Mediterranean Wines to Try