The PDO Zitsa wine region is one of the smallest PDO zones in Greece. It is located in the Regional Unit of Ioannina and encompasses areas from six villages: Zitsa, Protpapas, Karitsa, Ligopsia, Klimatia, and Gavrisioi. The vineyards are situated at an altitude of 500-700 meters and are planted in limestone soils. The climate in the area is Mediterranean, characterized by mild winters, dry summers, and influenced by the sea breeze from the Ionian Sea, which reaches this region through passes created by the Kalamas River (also known as Thyamis).
For centuries, viticulture has been one of the main occupations of the local residents, and the name Zitsa has always been synonymous with wine. The PDO wines from the Zitsa region are produced from the Debina variety, a grape that has been continuously cultivated over the years. It is, in fact, the dominant variety in the area.
The wines produced are:
- White, still, dry
- White sparkling, dry or semi-dry
The still wines are made using traditional white winemaking techniques, requiring modern equipment and fermentation at low temperatures to preserve the delicate aromas of Debina. The sparkling wines are produced either using the traditional method, where the second fermentation occurs in the bottle, or the Charmat method, where the second fermentation takes place in a tank.
When young, the wines have a light, lemony color with green highlights. The aromas are subtle, slightly floral, and fruity, featuring notes of lemon, pear, apple, and pineapple. The palate is fresh, elegant, and balanced. These wines are not intended for aging.