The vineyards of Rhodes
The main cultivation zone of the vineyards of Rhodes is found around Mount Attavyros, at altitudes of up to 2,600 feet and with exposure ranging from southeastern to northwestern orientations. This is the demesne of the white variety of Athiri which is exclusively cultivated in the mountain zone, where it retains its high acidity. In contrast, the red variety of Mandilaria (which the locals call “Amorgiano”) is cultivated mainly in the semi-mountainous areas and flatlands, yielding a ruby and tannic wine. The most serious problem vintners tending the vineyards of Rhodes face is the strong southerly winds which prevail during the growing season. As a result, the vines on the mountain slopes are pruned back into short-trunk goblets, a practice not followed in the flatlands where plantings are linear and irrigated. Another important cultivar is the white Muscat, which yields sweet wines.
