Achaia Clauss

Perched on the hills above Patras, Achaia Clauss stands as Greece’s first organized winery and a living monument to the country’s winemaking tradition. Its story began in the early 1850s, when Bavarian-born Gustav Clauss arrived in Patras and fell in love with the region’s sun-drenched vineyards. In 1861, he purchased his first estate, laying the foundation for a winery that would soon gain international acclaim.

By the late 19th century, Clauss’s legendary sweet wine, Mavrodaphne, had become a global ambassador for Greek viticulture—synonymous with elegance, craftsmanship, and authenticity.

In 1918, Vlasis Antonopoulos, a visionary currant merchant from Patras, became the first Greek owner of the winery. To honor its founder, he added Clauss’s name to the title, giving birth to the iconic brand “Achaia Clauss.” Under his guidance, the winery flourished, expanding its reputation and firmly establishing Mavrodaphne on the world stage.

In 1996, Nikolaos Karapanos, an oenologist and economist, took the helm of Achaia Clauss. His stewardship has been instrumental in preserving the winery’s historical and cultural legacy while blending tradition with innovation.

Continuing his passion for excellence, since 2017 Karapanos has embarked on a new chapter with “Castro Clauss Handcrafted Wines,” a personal project that celebrates artisanal winemaking and the timeless spirit of Achaia Clauss.

Today, Achaia Clauss remains more than a winery—it is a symbol of heritage, dedication, and the enduring beauty of Greek wine.

Tour and Tasting

Step into the birthplace of Greek winemaking and experience the rich history, craftsmanship, and passion that define Achaia Clauss. Each of our curated tours offers a unique journey through time — from historic cellars and museums to exclusive tastings of exceptional Greek wines, carefully selected by our expert winemakers.