Nico Lazaridi Wines #169
The Legacy of Nikos Lazaridis – Pioneering Winemaking in Drama
In 1987, fueled by a deep passion for wine and an unwavering respect for its craft, Nikos Lazaridis founded NICO LAZARIDI S.A. His vision extended far beyond merely producing fine wines; he sought to establish a new winemaking identity for the region of Drama in Northern Greece.
Through dedication and innovation, NICO LAZARIDI quickly became a driving force behind the transformation of Drama into a distinguished wine-producing area. The company’s efforts not only highlighted the richness of the local vineyards but also expanded the region’s potential, showcasing its exceptional terroir to the world.
The Perfect Conditions For Cultivation in The Mediterranean Region
Since 1997, the Château Nico Lazaridi Winery has stood as the beating heart of the company’s winemaking excellence. Nestled in the Macedonia region of Northern Greece, in the Agora area, just 15 kilometers from the city of Drama, the winery serves as both the headquarters and a symbol of innovation in Greek viticulture.
This region’s Mediterranean climate, marked by continental influences, creates the ideal conditions for cultivating both international and indigenous grape varieties. The result is a collection of structured wines with remarkable complexity and exceptional aging potential.
Château Nico Lazaridi – The Heart of PGI Wines
From its 65 hectares of vineyards, NICO LAZARIDI crafts wines certified under the Protected Geographical Indications (PGI) Drama and Agora, producing an array of labels that have defined modern Greek winemaking: the ultra-premium wine family of Perpetuus (Semillon, Chardonnay, Mavroudi – Cabernet Franc), the premium family Magic Mountain, the first Greek Icon Wine (Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc), the Cavalieri Lazaridi, a family of medium premium wines focusing in single varietal wines mainly by indigenous varieties (Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Xinomavro and Merlot), and the most classic label, Château Nico Lazaridi (white, red and rose blends).
Expanding Horizons – Mackedon Winery & Indigenous Grapes Excellence
In 2000, NICO LAZARIDI Wines embarked on a new journey, investing in the municipal district of Platanotopos, on the outskirts of Mount Pangeon, just 20 kilometers from Kavala. The goal was clear: to harness the full potential of Macedonia’s rich terroir and create wines that reflect the unique character of the region. Although close to Drama, the Pangeon area boasts a more moderate Mediterranean climate and distinct soil compositions, leading to wines that are lighter, fresher, and more aromatic, with elegant botanical notes. This difference in terroir allows the Mackedon Winery to produce a range of modern and easy-to-drink PGI Pangeon and Macedonia wines. The key wine families crafted at Mackedon Winery include The Black Sheep, Lion D’ Or, Queen, King and Jack of Hearts labels.
The region primarily cultivates international grape varieties, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay, Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, alongside cherished indigenous varieties like Malagousia and Assyrtiko.
The Homeland of Xinomavros
Driven by a passion for continuous growth and a commitment to honoring Greece’s indigenous grape heritage, the company expanded its investments into the renowned winemaking regions of Amyndeon and Naoussa—the homelands of Xinomavro. Today, the premium Evil Eye rosé dry wine, P.D.O. Amyndeon and the sparkling white and rosé brut Solitaire producing in Amyndeon and the Cavalieri Lazaridi Xinomavro, P.D.O. Naoussa, from a 40-year-old vineyard crafting in Naoussa.
Today, NICO LAZARIDI stands as a testament to vision and perseverance, shaping the future of Greek winemaking. In 2024, the winery handled 1.4 million bottles, with exports accounting for 20% of its annual turnover. Its wines are also featured in duty-free shops at every major Greek airport.
Wine, Art, and Hospitality – The Château Nico Lazaridi Experience
At NICO LAZARIDI Wines, innovation extends beyond winemaking—they are committed to elevating wine tourism by offering world-class services in a lesser-known yet breathtaking region of Northern Greece. In recognition of this dedication, they received official certification from the Ministry of Tourism in 2017.
At Château Nico Lazaridi Winery, every visit is a journey through wine, art, and history, offering guests an experience they will never forget. The Lazaridis family is renowned for its unique connection between art and wine. This vision gave rise to “Magic Mountain”, a wine whose label features an original artwork that changes with every vintage. Inside the winery, visitors can explore the Magic Mountain Gallery, showcasing these stunning paintings, making each visit a journey through both oenology and artistry.
As the only winery in the region open on weekends, they offer different tasting packages of wine, guided tours, and also tailored wine experiences upon request.
They open daily from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, accessible for disabled guests and pet-friendly (with some restrictions in production areas).
Château Nico Lazaridi is just one hour from Kavala Airport and 45 minutes from Kavala Port, making it an accessible destination for travelers. The surrounding region offers remarkable attractions, including Philippi Archaeological Site, UNESCO World Heritage, the Baptistery of St. Lydia, and Elatia Forest – a natural paradise in Drama.
