Moschofilero is a pinkish (gray) grape variety native to the Peloponnese. The most significant vineyards are located in Mantinia, where the variety has adapted exceptionally well. Plantings cover approximately 1,000 hectares, accounting for less than 2% of the total area (2018). It ripens late, with harvesting starting in late September and concluding after mid-October. As a plant, it is robust and productive, exhibiting significant intra-varietal variability (white Moschofilero, yellow Moschofilero, black Moschofilero).
Although it is a pinkish variety, it is usually subjected to white winemaking at low temperatures, without the use of barrels, resulting in white wines. However, there are also instances where the must is colored after skin extraction, producing rosé wines. It is an aromatic variety, characterized by distinctive notes of rose, jasmine, and citrus blossoms, along with hints of lemon, grapefruit, and orange peel. On the palate, it is marked by elegance, crisp acidity, and low alcohol. These attributes make it suitable for base wine in both white and rosé sparkling wines, produced either by the traditional method or the tank method.
Typically, it is not intended for aging and has earned a reputation as an easy-drinking, refreshing wine for immediate consumption. However, opinions vary, with some asserting that its rich aromatic profile and vibrant acidity can ensure remarkable aging potential, a view we do not oppose.
Its captivating characteristics make it one of the most popular varieties in Greece. Additionally, it has been chosen as one of the four "terroir varieties" ambassadors of the country in the strategic plan for promoting and marketing Greek wine abroad (the other three are Agiorgitiko, Assyrtiko, and Xinomavro).
In the region of Arcadia, one of the cooler areas in Greece, it produces quality wines under the Protected Designation of Origin Mantinia. These wines are white, either still (dry) or sparkling (dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet). Moschofilero must comprise at least 85% of the blend, while the remainder can come from Asproudes. Finally, it is permitted in several Protected Geographical Indication wines in the regions of Evia, Boeotia, and of course, the Peloponnese.