Rhoditis

Rhoditis

Rhoditis is a pink-skinned grape variety that is used in the production of white and rosé wines. It is primarily grown in the Peloponnese region of Greece, but can also be found in other parts of the country. The grape is known for its high acidity and light body, making it ideal for producing refreshing and crisp wines.

History

The history of Rhoditis is deeply intertwined with the history of Greek winemaking. The grape has been cultivated in Greece for thousands of years and is mentioned in ancient texts. Despite its long history, Rhoditis has often been overlooked in favor of more internationally recognized grape varieties. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Rhoditis and other indigenous Greek grape varieties.

Viticulture

Rhoditis is a hardy grape that can thrive in a variety of soil types and climates. It is typically harvested in late September or early October. The grape has a high natural acidity, which can be balanced by careful vineyard management and winemaking techniques. The best examples of Rhoditis wines come from vineyards located at high altitudes, where the cooler temperatures help to preserve the grape's natural acidity.

Winemaking

The winemaking process for Rhoditis is similar to that of other white grape varieties. The grapes are typically hand-harvested and then gently pressed to extract the juice. The juice is then fermented at controlled temperatures to preserve the grape's natural flavors and acidity. Some winemakers choose to age their Rhoditis wines on the lees (dead yeast cells) to add complexity and texture.

Wine Styles

Rhoditis is used to produce a variety of wine styles, ranging from light and crisp whites to fuller-bodied rosés. The grape's high acidity makes it ideal for producing refreshing wines that are perfect for warm weather drinking. Rhoditis wines typically have flavors of citrus, green apple, and pear, with a mineral-driven finish.

Food Pairing

Due to its high acidity and light body, Rhoditis wines pair well with a variety of foods. They are particularly well-suited to seafood dishes, such as grilled fish or shrimp. The wines also pair well with Greek cuisine, including dishes like tzatziki, dolmades, and spanakopita.

See Also

• Greek wine
• Viticulture
• Winemaking

References

• Robinson, J., Harding, J., & Vouillamoz, J. (2012). Wine Grapes: A complete guide to 1,368 vine varieties, including their origins and flavours. London: Allen Lane.
• Johnson, H., & Robinson, J. (2013). The World Atlas of Wine (7th ed.). London: Mitchell Beazley.