The key role of the Attica vineyard as an integral part of the productive, cultural and developmental identity of Attica, as well as the regional authority's steadfast commitment to providing multifaceted and substantial support to wine producers, was mentioned by Regional Governor Nikos Hardalias during his speech at the event «The wines of Attica – The rebirth of an iconic vineyard,» which was held as part of the Region's cohesive strategy for the international promotion of Attica wines.
The Regional Governor emphasized that the Region of Attica gives substantial space and priority to a sector which, as he pointed out, «is not just a link in the production chain—it is a link in the chain of our identity.» As he pointed out, the Attica vineyard connects the region's long history with contemporary creativity, innovation, and extroversion.
Referring to the timeless importance of viticulture in Attica, Mr. Hardalias pointed out that from ancient times to the present day, the region's wines have traveled internationally, carrying with them culture, knowledge, and tradition. «Behind this journey are our people—the winegrowers, winemakers, and families who cultivate the land with hard work and love, keeping our roots alive and paving the way for the future,» he said.
Presenting the sector's figures, the Regional Governor noted that Attica's wine production is currently valued at approximately €0.95 million, representing 4.51% of total Greek wine production. As he emphasized, «the number may seem small, but behind it lies enormous potential—an industry that is growing, modernizing, exporting, and adding value to the entire local economy.».
The Region of Attica stands by winemakers
Mr. Hardalias presented the Region's targeted interventions to support the sector, pointing out that from the outset, the priority was to support those involved in production «with a plan, consistency, clear objectives, and measurable results.».
In the field of international outreach, as he pointed out, the Region of Attica included international wine exhibitions such as Wine Paris and ProWein in its annual promotion program for the first time. At the same time, he stressed that targeted European promotion programs were implemented in large markets, with positive results: a 32% increase in the recognition of Attica's retsina and a 17% increase in the export potential of the companies participating in these programs.
As the Regional Governor pointed out, «these are not mere announcements—they are actions in progress,» adding that the new Three-Year Extroversion Program is already being planned, with the expansion of activities to Europe, Asia, and America.
Wine, culture, and experience – the Attica brand
Mr. Hardalias made special mention of the connection between Attica's vineyards and tourism and the overall brand of Attica. «Wine is not just an economic indicator. It is culture. It is a way of life,» he said, presenting the “Athens Wine Routes” concept, which transforms the viticultural heritage into a complete experience for visitors.
The aim of the initiative, he said, is to promote Attica as a metropolitan region that combines history, nature, gastronomy, and a modern urban experience, with the Attica vineyard acting as a «natural ambassador of hospitality and identity.».
Infrastructure, innovation, and synergies
The Regional Governor emphasized that development is not limited to promotion, but is based on infrastructure and cooperation. He referred to the irrigation project covering 2,500 acres of vineyards and olive groves in Keratea, as well as the modernization of wine-producing businesses through Rural Development Programs.
He emphasized that the Attica Agri-Food Partnership plays a central role in this strategy, with the Attica Vineyard Wine Producers Association (EN.O.A.A.) as its key partner, as «only through cooperation, knowledge, and synergies can we move forward,» as he characteristically said.
Concluding his speech, Mr. Hardalias emphasized that the Region of Attica is investing steadily and strategically in a unified productive ecosystem that connects the primary sector with manufacturing, tourism, and culture. «Our philosophy is clear: we do not only remember the people involved in production when there is a problem. We are by their side every day. Attica can do it. And when we join forces, we prove it in practice – every day, in every sector,» concluded the Regional Governor.
Attic wine: a journey from antiquity to the future
During the workshop, which was coordinated by MW Master of Wine Yiannis Karakasis, renowned winemakers shared their experiences and opinions on the «quiet revolution» that has been taking place in recent years in Attica's wine production, the innovative strategies pursued by the new generations of producers, paving the way for Attica wine's future, as well as the added value of Savatiano, the «star» of the Attica vineyard.
The Regional Governor of Attica was accompanied by Dimitra Angelaki, Executive Advisor on Agricultural Economy and Veterinary Medicine, the Special Secretary of the Region of Attica, Elena Rapti, and the Deputy Director of the Regional Governor's Office, Dimitris Tarazonas.
