Completely unknown but with its history lost in the mists of time, Sklava is fortunately one of the native greek varieties that survived although it was almost extinct until recently. One of the oldest Greek varieties, it used to be planted scattered within the Agiorgitiko vines in Nemea. In the course of time its systematic cultivation stopped, it was gradually forgotten and it nearly disappeared.
Its main feature is that it is very resistant to drought and infertile soils, and it seems to perform better there. Thanks to the persistent efforts of Ilias Zacharias, experienced viticulturer and winemaker of Nemea, after several experimentations Sklava is now cultivated in a single vineyard of 15 acres, fortunately having escaped the danger of extinction.
Why do we say fortunately? Because as you will see, when you taste the Sklava 2023 by Zacharias Winery, the results are really impressive! With such aromatic and palate wealth it would not surprise us at all if we see it established in other vineyards in Greece.
Time to meet Sklava, one of the forgotten Greek indigenous varieties that will make the difference!