How to Pair Wine with Greek Food

At Krasi, the magic of Greek cuisine is best experienced when paired with the perfect glass of wine. Greek food is rich in flavor, history, and culture—and so is Greek wine. With over 300 indigenous grape varieties and centuries of winemaking traditions, Greece offers a vibrant palette of pairings to elevate every meal. Whether you’re enjoying fresh seafood, grilled meats, or Greek dips, there’s a wine to match. Here’s our guide to pairing wine with your favorite Greek dishes.

1. Fresh Mezze & White Wines

Pair with Assyrtiko or Moschofilero

Greek mezze — such as tzatziki, dolmades, and grilled octopus — pairs well with crisp, refreshing wines.

  • Assyrtiko, especially from Santorini, has high acidity and mineral notes that cut through rich dips and enhance seafood.

  • Moschofilero, an aromatic white from the Peloponnese, brings floral and citrusy notes that complement tangy spreads and herbed starters.

2. Seafood & Lighter Whites or Rosés

Pair with Robola, Roditis, or Greek Rosé

From grilled calamari to whole lavraki (sea bass), seafood is a staple of Greek cuisine.

  • Robola, native to Kefalonia, offers citrus and stone fruit flavors, ideal for delicate fish.

  • A chilled Greek rosé made from Agiorgitiko or Xinomavro grapes brings bright acidity and berry notes, balancing grilled shrimp or sardines.

3. Grilled Meats & Bold Reds

Pair with Agiorgitiko or Xinomavro

When you’re savoring lamb souvlaki or moussaka, reach for a red.

  • Agiorgitiko, from Nemea, is velvety with notes of plum and spice, great with charred meats and stews.

  • Xinomavro, often compared to Nebbiolo, brings structure and earthy depth, making it perfect for roasted lamb or pastitsio.

4. Vegetarian Dishes & Versatile Whites

Pair with Vidiano or Savatiano

Greek cuisine boasts a rich tradition of vegetarian dishes, including spanakopita, Gigantes beans, and brian (a vegetable bake), among others.

  • Vidiano, a Cretan white, offers notes of peach and herbs, complementing both cheesy and green dishes.

  • Savatiano, often underestimated, is smooth and food-friendly, making it ideal for lemony and herbaceous dishes.

5. Desserts & Sweet Wines

Pair with Vinsanto or Mavrodaphne

Greek desserts, such as baklava or galaktoboureko, demand wines that complement their sweetness and spice.

  • Vinsanto (not to be confused with Italy’s Vin Santo) from Santorini is made from sun-dried Assyrtiko grapes, delivering rich flavors of caramel, fig, and nuts.

  • Mavrodaphne, a sweet fortified red, pairs beautifully with chocolate and nut-based desserts.

Pair Greek Food with Wine at Krasi in the Back Bay

Pairing wine with Greek food doesn’t need to be complicated — it’s about enhancing the flavors, enjoying the moment, and celebrating tradition. Whether you’re dining with us at Krasi or recreating the experience at home, we invite you to explore the vast world of Greek wines, one glass at a time.

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The History of Wine in Ancient Greece