Goumenissa
Goumenissa is a picturesque town in Central Macedonia, built at the foot of mountain Paiko along the river Sirios. It is located 40 km from the city of Kilkis and 75 km from Thessaloniki. Goumenissa is known for its traditional music and impromptu brass bands as well as silk and quality wine production.
In fact, Goumenissa has a rich wine history that stretches back to Byzantine antiquity. The celebration of St Tryphon, the patron saint of winegrowers, is to this day a warming feast in the depths of winter, and a living testimonial to the importance of wine in everyday life.
The Goumenissa appellation was granted PDO status in 1979. Comprising only 200 hectares, it is one of the smallest wine zones in Greece. The demarcated region includes the municipality of Goumenissa as well as communities of the prefecture of Kilkis such as Gerakonas, Filiria, and Pentalofos, amongst others.
Most vineyards planted with the red varieties Xinomavro and Negoska extend on the east-facing, gentle-rolling slopes of Mount Paiko at 150 meters altitude and higher.
The climate of the region is continental. Summer heatwaves are tempered by the influence of the river Sirios and mitigating cool breezes. In the winter months, moisture is dispersed by the Vardar, a cold north-westerly ravine wind.
The soil is mainly clayey, rich in granite and limestone and with good drainage.
The microclimate (terroir) of the region is suitable for organic farming and generally benefits the style of wines which characteristically demonstrate a broad and soft palate, fresh natural acidity, well-defined fruit flavours and serious density.
