Roditis (pronounced “Roh – di – tis”) is the second most planted white grape variety by wine growers in Greece. It is also the base for hundreds of “modest”—or less “modest”—and everyday white wines in the market. This is perhaps the reason that the variety has been often characterized as “humble”. In actual fact, Roditis is neither a white variety, since its berries’ skin colour veers to the reddish, nor is it “humble” since, under the right conditions, it can yield distinct and excellent wines. Moreover, given the fact that its wines are modestly priced, Roditis submits its candidacy to be nominated as the best “value for money” variety of the Greek vineyard.

Cultivated throughout the land of Epirus, Roditis yields the PDO Patras wines, lends a hand to the PDO Anchilaos and PDO Slopes of Meliton whites, and is part of the blend in countless PGI wines. Admittedly, it does emerge as watery and flabby at times. Nevertheless, taming unrestrained production, opting for mountain vineyards, carefully vinifying, and keeping its wines on their lees for short duration, are the key-elements behind the transformation of this ostensibly ugly duckling into Prince Charming! Thus, contemporary, premium Roditis wines possess clear, lemony or—depending on the region—mineral aromas, light to medium body, and refreshing acidity. All elements that dress the wines with a “European” patina and great flexibility at the table.

Despite its prevalence in the winegrowing industry, Roditis remains one of the least explored Greek varieties, as well as being a living proof of the potential of the contemporary wines of Greece. Restless wine lovers who have enjoyed a bottle of this varietal either as an aperitif or a flawless companion of appetizers, main dishes will not only come to broaden their wine horizons but it will also be making a “clever” buy when opting for Roditis.