A two-day break (12–13 June) to a little slice of heaven on Earth, just a stone’s throw from Athens? The news came like a classical symphony amid the cacophony of every-day hustle. The Semeli Estate is one of the most impressive wine-related ventures in Greece, so an invitation to attend the unique, holistic #SemeliWineExperience seemed utterly promising – and it sure didn’t fail to deliver.
On the morning of Wednesday 12 June, the merry crowd (Iliada Klangou, Olga Vasileiadou, Zeta Tsakoumi, Karolos Michailidis, Mary Kalymnou, Penny Baltatzi, Christos Tzountis, Effrosyni Polyzoi, and yours truly) set off from downtown Athens towards Koutsi, near the town of Nemea in the Peloponnese, hungry to take in all the beauty, scents and hospitality of the Semeli Estate.
In less than two hours’ time, we were greeted at the gates of the large winery by the proactive staff, who were there to quench our thirst with a much-appreciated welcome drink. First, introductions were in order and, a few invigorating sips later, we were energised enough to go on the very interesting grand tour including the facilities, the vineyard and the spectacular cellar of the Semeli Estate, all set in one of the most blessed corners of Peloponnesian land.
During the Vineyards & Wine Tour, we got the chance to meet the people behind the Estate, including Managing Director and enologist Leonidas Nasiakos, and Head of Hospitality Services Margarita Sigkyridou. Our tour continued with an exploration of every nook of the winery, from the production and bottling areas to the vast vineyard, and the tasting of delicious wines the likes of Semeli Grande Reserve, Τhea Mantinia, and Delear, a very special rosé. We lounged happily at the Semeli Estate Bistro while savouring a light lunch menu of Mediterranean classics, perfectly paired with the Estate’s wines. Needless to say, we posted photos and stories on our Ista accounts like no tomorrow, impressed as we were with the breathtaking landscape and accommodation, our great spirits reflected in our satisfied grins.
It was late at night when we slipped into our cosy rooms in the Estate’s guest house for a rejuvenating night’s sleep. The next morning, after the heartiest of breakfasts, we headed back to Athens, now knowing our wine, and with images and memories to cherish for a long, long time.
Semeli Estate: Koutsi, 20500 Nemea, Peloponnese
T: (+30) 27460 20360/20361
www.semeliestate.gr