Nestled on the slopes of Epanomi, just 25 kilometers southeast of Thessaloniki, Ktima Gerovassiliou reflects Greece's deep-rooted wine-making tradition. Surrounded by a vineyard that stretches across 95 hectares, this modern winery offers a glimpse into a setting steeped in history, ecology, and craftsmanship.
The story of Ktima Gerovassiliou began in 1981, when Vangelis Gerovassiliou, a distinguished oenologist and viticulturist, revived his family’s 2.5-hectare vineyard in the Papamola region of Epanomi. Before establishing his own estate, Gerovassiliou honed his skills at Domaine Porto Carras, where he played a pivotal role in restoring the nearly extinct Malagousia grape variety.
Having studied under the legendary Professor Émile Peynaud at the University of Bordeaux, Gerovassiliou brought his expertise and vision to create a modern winery where Greek and international grape varieties could flourish. Today, the estate spans 95 hectares and is renowned for its dedication to sustainable cultivation and meticulous vineyard care, producing wines that reflect the unique character of this Mediterranean terroir.
Ktima Gerovassiliou cultivates both Greek and international grape varieties with precision and care. Among the Greek varieties are the white Malagousia and Assyrtiko, alongside red varieties like Limnio, Mavroudi, Mavrotragano, and Xinomavro. French varieties, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Syrah, and Merlot, also find a home here. The estate continuously experiments with new varieties, ensuring innovation in its winemaking process.
The winery’s facilities are state-of-the-art, with areas designed for every stage of production. From pneumatic presses to oak fermentation vats and underground ageing cellars, every detail is engineered to ensure the highest quality. Red wines and select whites mature in French oak barrels under controlled temperature and humidity.
At the heart of the estate lies the Gerovassiliou Wine Museum, located within the winery itself, offering visitors a comprehensive glimpse into the cultural and historical aspects of winemaking. The museum features two notable collections. The first is a remarkable array of over 2,600 corkscrews from across the globe, showcasing centuries of innovation in wine-opening tools. The second collection includes ancient wine vessels, tools, and artifacts that trace the evolution of wine culture through history.
The museum is divided into sections that explore different facets of winemaking, from ancient techniques to modern innovations. It serves as a testament to the region's enduring relationship with wine and its role in shaping local traditions.
Guided tours of the estate provide insights into the vineyard, production and ageing areas, and the museum, lasting approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Visitors can also enjoy wine tastings, selecting from current and rare vintages, while taking in views of the expansive vineyard and surrounding landscapes.
Epanomi’s history stretches back nearly 6,000 years, with wine production documented for over 1,500 years. During Byzantine times, the area was renowned for its vineyards, a legacy that continues to this day. This rural village, with its population of 9,000, is a charming blend of coastal and agricultural landscapes, featuring olive groves, vineyards, and hills that roll towards the sea. Its 40-kilometer coastline boasts pristine beaches and traditional taverns where visitors can savor fresh fish, local cuisine, and, of course, fine wine.
The Epanomi wetlands, a 550-hectare protected area under the EU’s Natura 2000 program, host a remarkable array of flora and fauna, including 28 bird species identified within the vineyard itself.
The region’s Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers tempered by sea breezes, is ideal for viticulture. The vineyard’s soil—a mix of sand, clay, and calcareous rocks enriched with sea fossils from ancient deposits—creates the perfect conditions for cultivating exceptional grapes. All vineyard tasks, including the harvest, are performed manually under an Integrated Management System that prioritizes environmental sustainability.
Ktima Gerovassiliou is accessible from Thessaloniki via public transportation. Buses from IKEA Station (Nos. 2K or 3K) connect to Epanomi (Bus No. 69), followed by a short 2-kilometer journey to the estate.
The estate’s opening hours vary by day, with guided tours available multiple times daily. Wine tastings and educational programs can be booked in advance.
Monday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00-16:00
Wednesday: 13:00-19:00
Saturday, Sunday: 11:00-17:00
Closed on Tuesdays
