Chlores
Introduction
Chlores (or Chlora, Chloe, Flora) is one of the most intriguing "hidden" varieties of the Greek vineyard, being the rare white clone of the red Mandilaria. With a presence extending from the Aegean (as Aspri Mandilaria in Santorini) to the Ionian and Epirus, Chlores carries a long history of adaptation to rugged, mountainous terroirs, offering wines with distinctive structure and rare gastronomic interest.
Tasting Notes
It produces wines with medium body, balanced acidity, and distinct aromas of white-fleshed fruits and flowers. It is often blended with varieties such as Vardea or Lagorthi. Due to its relation to Mandilaria, its skin is rich in phenolics. This has allowed pioneering producers (e.g., Syflogo) to create orange versions by leaving the must with the skins, offering wines with tannic structure and great complexity.
Terroir
Today, Lefkada is the "stronghold" of the variety. It is cultivated at high altitudes (>500m), often on traditional terraces in mountainous villages like Agios Ilias and Platystoma. Besides Lefkada and Zakynthos, its cultivation is officially permitted in areas of mainland Greece (Corinthia, Magnesia, Epirus). It is particularly productive, but quality is highlighted in poor, rocky soils where yield is limited to 400-500 kg/stremma. It buds early, making it vulnerable to spring frosts. Additionally, its thin skin makes it susceptible to downy mildew and botrytis, especially in humid climates. It is a late-ripening variety, with harvest usually taking place in late September.
Summary
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