Monemvassia is a variety of many a peculiarity, not only because it is mostly cultivated at a place (the Cycladic island of Paros) different than the one denoted by its name, but also because it is the only Greek white grape variety which is used with no fewer than three types of PDO wines (White and Red PDO Paros, but also sweet wines PDO Monemvasia-Malvasia and PDO Malvasia Paros).

Monemvassia is a vigorous vine with moderately high yields. It ripens early and higher, cooler altitudes assist the vine in achieving a better alcohol and acidity balance. It is very resistant to water stress and most diseases. It has a moderate aromatic intensity with an intriguing spiciness. Sweet wines from sun-dried grapes are excellent and age-worthy.

When on the islands’ mountain slopes, the variety is traditionally planted and cultivated on stone terraces.

Monemvassia grape is not related to the Malvasia varieties, although this was a common assumption in the past.