Local wines to try in Rhodes?

[dpappas87]

I’m starting to gather ideas for a possible late fall trip to Rhodes and one thing I’d really love to explore is the local wine. I’m Greek and have been to Greece many times, but never to Rhodes, so I’m not familiar with the island’s wine scene at all.

I’ve read that Rhodes has a long tradition of winemaking and that certain villages, like Embonas, are known for their vineyards. Are there particular grape varieties or labels I should look for? Any local favorites that don’t make it to the mainland but are worth seeking out while I’m there?

I’d also love to know if there are wineries that offer tastings or tours in the fall, and whether that’s a good season for visiting vineyards in Rhodes.

If you’ve had wine in Rhodes that made an impression, I’d be grateful for your recommendations!

 

[Tpebop]

Cair & Emery are the best known brands .not sure you will get tastings in the fall. I buy my wine at Panarama by the roadside between Embona & Siana.It closes mid October so I have to stock up for the winter

 

[k_tsoukalas]

Rhodes has a really interesting wine tradition, and you’re right that Embonas is at the heart of it. The island’s most famous grape is Athiri, a white variety that thrives in the volcanic soil and produces crisp, aromatic wines perfect for seafood and lighter dishes. You’ll also find Mandilaria (red), often blended for fuller body. A well-known label is Cair, which produces both still and sparkling wines, but some of the small village wineries are the real gems.

In Embonas, wineries like Emery and Kounakis offer tastings, and fall is actually a great time to visit — harvest usually wraps up in September, so you’ll still catch the fresh buzz of the season.

Definitely try a glass of Athiri right at the source; it’s an experience that rarely makes it to the mainland in the same way.