The grape growing and wine production is a task that lasts all year long.
Our vineyards are located in slopes of the Southwest Peloponnese, the largest peninsula of Greece. The downhill terrain ensures correct air circulation and proper exposure of plants to the beneficial rays of the sun.
Trimming begins in January, at the beginning of each year and lasts until mid-March. At the same time we take care of the cleaning of weeds and fertilize the soil. The methods we use are perfectly compatible with the environment and do not intend to overcultivate in order to maintain the high quality of wine. The end of March is the time for the replacement of ancient vines with new by layering.
In April we plow the surface depending on soil moisture and then remove some leaves in order to get the air into small even grapes.
May is perhaps the most important month for viticulture. Proper tipping just before the boom ensures correct nourishment of grape and we ensure the plants are carefully supported which helps their growth and fruiting.
June and July demand close monitoring of the vineyard and watering. The plants now show strong growth and are getting closer to harvest.
The harvest takes place some time between August and October, depending on variety and region while the tanks and barrels are prepared. Through the method of densitometry we are able to visually confirm when the grapes are ripe enough.
The grapes are then harvested with special knives carried in special baskets. The must and grapes end up in barrels where the fermentation starts. Traditionally the season of harvest for the Greeks is an opportunity for celebration and there are customs from ancient times until today that accompany the process of wine production. November and December is the "xelakoma". It is a process of digging around the roots of the plant to allow time for the enrichment of the soil.
Apollo Natural Greek Foods' wines Satyrikon and Saint Island, include the taste and aroma of all the care and love of our family for the final product and takes you to Greece to experience the Mediterranean light and joy.