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Lefteris Glinavos knew from the first moment that his studies would contribute to make the most of and bring out the natural wealth not only of Zitsa, but also of Greece as a whole. Thus, in 1978 he decided to establish DOMAINE GLINAVOS in the Viticultural Area with Protected Designation of Origin, Zitsa, Ioannina.
Even since 1980, he used the most advanced technologies of the time and he created the traditional rosé semi-sparkling wine “Kyra Frosyni” and the white dry wine “Balthazar-Zitsa”. However, he was and still remains loyal to the tradition and the main varieties of the area of Ioannina and more specifically those of Zitsa: the white “Debina” and the reds “Vlahiko” and “Bekari”.
In 1990, DOMAINE GLINAVOS made a new start and broadened its horizons as the son of the founder, Thomas Glinavos, joined the family business. Thomas Glinavos studied Political Sciences and Public Information at the University of Stockholm. It was then that the first major investment was made with emphasis on modernizing the wine making equipment and creating new buildings, open to the public.
The art of oenology, the knowledge and experience of Lefteris Glinavos were passed on to the next generation and they combined to create a new foundation stone for the evolution and distinction of the wines cultivated in one of the furthermost borders of Greece, from Zitsa, Ioannina. Even since that time, DOMAINE GLINAVOS started gaining its first distinctions, its first important awards in local and international competitions.
A modern distillery producing the Epirotic tsipouro (without anise) was established in 2004 and two types of double-distilled tsipouro (pomace brandy) were introduced to the market: “Classic” and “Oak Aged” (maturing in oak barrels for two years).
In 2009, DOMAINE GLINAVOS establishes a new major unit producing sparkling and semi-sparkling wines. The purpose of this investment was and still is to continue the tradition of Zitsa in exceptional quality sparkling and semi-sparkling wines produced from the “Debina” and other grape varieties.
Ever since our first steps in this market, 37 years ago till today, our primary objective at DOMAINE GLINAVOS is the production of the highest quality possible wines and Greek-distilled spirit, tsipouro, utilizing the local varieties growing in the viticultural area of Zitsa. Our constant development and upgrades- always in respect to tradition- have always been our second equally important goal. As time passes by, the varieties grown in our vineyard enriches with other Greek varieties as well as international varieties.
New innovative wines and spirits are constantly being created, whereas previously forgotten ones are rediscovered. The creation of "Paleokerisio" (Old Times) wine (unique of its kind in Greece) is the most prominent example of the revival of a traditional wine, the famous semi-sparkling wine produced in Ioannina since 1600AC. Our timeless evolutionary path is shown through our recently released oak- aged Tsipouro "Grande Reserve" produced from the variety Debina without anise.
In recent years, the proliferation of wine lovers has raised the bar for all. Enjoying wine has become a ritual and therefore, wine lovers are justifiably more demanding than ever.
Our philosophy and our efforts to create wines of high quality and uniqueness are recognized.
The design of our new logo was the first step in this direction and main source of inspiration for this was the post-Byzantine church of Zoodohos Pigi, a display that appears in many lodges and local handicrafts in the area of Zitsa. Gradually, both the redesign of our wine labels, and the general upgrading of our communication material are completed, culminating in the complete renewal of our website.
Welcome to the new era for DOMAINE GLINAVOS where we are committed that we will continue with the same consistency and passion in our efforts for lasting quality and aesthetic enhancement both for the wine and spirits we produce as well as our presence in the domestic and international market, so that our country and the Greek products occupy the position and the recognition they really deserve, worldwide.