GOSTIS DIODIA – Dry Red 2022

Description

Wines Rooted in the Mythical Kingdom of Nestor
The winery’s history traces back to 1890 when the great-grandfather, Athanasios Gotsis, settled permanently in the semi-mountainous village of Loi in the Municipality of Messina. He initiated the cultivation of vines and olives with the goal of selling wine and oil in a whine shop – grocery store that he established. Subsequently, he housed the business in a 300 sq.m. stone mansion, a true gem for the village, which he personally constructed in 1901. Over the years, the vineyards and olive groves expanded, and oak barrels and equipment were incorporated into the stone buildings. The estate reached its zenith with the construction of the olive mill and the commencement of olive oil exports in 1920.

The legacy then passed through the hands of the grandfather and the father until it ultimately landed in the possession of the youngest descendant, Nikos Gotsis. In 1998, fully cognizant of his family’s history and centuries-old tradition, Nikos returned to the village. He resolved to rejuvenate the mansion and all traditional structures surrounding it, transforming them into a modern winery that capitalized on the rich wine heritage he inherited. Right from the outset, he invested in vines, establishing his own ‘batch’ and energetically commenced winemaking in his sole 4-acre vineyard. Captivated by the entire process, he continually challenged himself to achieve better results and superior quality each year. Presently, his winery yields a total of 70 tons, utilizing 40 acres of privately owned vineyards and an additional 60 acres of cooperative vineyards.

The name – DIODIA
“Diodia, meaning ‘Tolls,’, goes beyond being just the name of the village; it symbolized the price for the journey’s continuation. At first glance, the name Diodia is effortlessly memorable for the local community and resonates throughout the wider Peloponnese region. It lends itself to playful banter (‘you’re not going anywhere without paying tolls first’), adding a touch of local charm. More importantly, it serves as a strategic cornerstone in shaping the estate’s image by anchoring it to a specific location, transcending the generic association of ‘somewhere near Messina’.”