Vertzami is a rare red grape variety primarily cultivated on Lefkada, as well as in the other Ionian islands and various regions of Western Greece, including Achaia, Aetolia-Acarnania, and Epirus. It has Italian origins and arrived on the island of Lefkada during the Venetian rule from the 14th to the 17th century.
This is a vigorous and productive plant, sensitive to drought but resistant to diseases. On Lefkada, where it is most extensively grown, it thrives in calcareous, clayey soils at altitudes of 200 to 700 meters. Harvesting takes place in September, although in cooler years, grapes in the higher vineyards may struggle to ripen.
The wine is produced using classic red winemaking techniques, and aging in oak barrels softens the tannins while adding sweet notes of vanilla and smoke to the wine's aromatic profile.
The organoleptic characteristics of this variety include a very dense color, intense fruity aromas, rich and robust tannins, high acidity, and a full body.
It is often blended with the Greek variety Mavrodafni and the French Merlot. No wines with Protected Designation of Origin are produced from the Vertzami variety, but it is included in wines with Protected Geographical Indication from Lefkada.