07/15/2026
Even though Greece has a long history of winemaking, little is known about the clonal diversity of its indigenous grape varieties. Kostas Bakasietas, owner of Bakasietas, one of the largest grapevine nurseries in Greece, is leading several projects to identify their genetic diversity, including the identification and selection of Moschofilero clones.
It was a fascinating exercise to taste the marked differences among nine Moschofilero clones. Perhaps the answer lies in cultivating and blending different clones rather than favoring one over another.
As wine regions with arid climates develop strategies to adapt to climate change, Greece will become an increasingly important resource thanks to the remarkable diversity of its indigenous grape varieties. Many, like Assyrtiko, retain high acidity while requiring very little water, making them valuable assets for Mediterranean climates where water is becoming increasingly scarce. Continued research into Greece’s indigenous grape varieties and their clonal diversity is therefore be essential for the future.
Kostas Bakasietas was a speaker at the last Tasting Climate Change conference. You can watch the recording by visiting tastingclimatechange.com.
Thanks so much Kostas for this opportunity.
Wines of Greece Kostas Bakasietas
