Greece is the Thing: An Interview with Chrisa Giorgi of Wine Cellar Stories

I speak Modern Greek, which doesn’t come up a lot in my life, but it has lately. Greek wine is chock-full of seemingly hard-to-pronounce wine grapes that I’d love everyone who fancies wine to know more about. Starting this club has given me a chance to do some exploring myself, because there’s so much to learn, and I’m not an expert in Greek wine (yet!). Last summer, I went to an event at the Capital Wine School in D.C., where I met Chrisa Giorgi, a filmmaker from Crete that focuses on wine as part of her production company, Wine Cellar Stories. When we selected a rosé from Crete for our June club, I thought it’d be a fun chance to chat with Chrisa (who is herself from Crete!) and hear more about how she got her start in wine filmmaking, which is such a cool concept. When I visit wineries, hear from makers, and see the vines and equipment, wine becomes so much more than a beverage in a glass. Read on to hear about Chrisa’s work and inspiration, and do check out her film, In the Wine Dark Sea, too!

Miki from GoodWine: What is your origin story? That is, how did you become a filmmaker, and what led you to a focus on film and wine?

Chrisa Giorgi from Wine Cellar Stories: My journey began in Crete, where I was born and raised. I studied Political Science and earned my Masters in Political Analysis at the University of Crete. My career started in journalism, working for radio stations and newspapers. This background in storytelling naturally led me to explore the world of wine through the Wines & Spirits Educational Trust (WSET), where I am currently studying to reach the Diploma level. Living in Baltimore, I founded "Wine Cellar Stories," a movie production company. My fascination with wine and my passion for storytelling converged when I realized how little Greece was mentioned in wine education. This inspired me to create documentaries that highlight the rich winemaking traditions of Greece, focusing on its unique grape varieties and the passionate producers behind them. 

Miki: What unique aspects of Greek wine culture do you aim to showcase in your films?

Chrisa: I aim to showcase the diversity and richness of Greek wine culture, emphasizing the unique indigenous grape varieties and the distinct terroirs of different regions. Greek wines carry the honesty and passion of their makers, reflecting the history, tradition, and innovation present in the Greek wine industry. By focusing on the personal stories of winemakers and the beautiful landscapes where these wines are produced, I strive to offer viewers a deep and authentic insight into what makes Greek wines so special.

Miki: How do you approach storytelling when creating films about Greek wines? Do you have any particular themes or narratives you like to explore?

Chrisa: In my storytelling, I focus on the human element, highlighting the personal journeys of the winemakers, their dedication, and their connection to the land. Themes such as tradition versus innovation, sustainability, and the resilience of both the people and the vines are central to my narratives. I aim to create a colorful mosaic of stories that transport viewers to the vineyards of Greece, allowing them to experience the unique winemaking philosophies and the cultural heritage that each bottle of Greek wine embodies.

Miki: Let’s talk about Crete! What do you think wine lovers should know about wines from that fascinating island?

Chrisa: Crete is a treasure trove of unique wines made from indigenous grape varieties that have been cultivated for thousands of years. The island's diverse microclimates and rich soils produce wines with distinctive flavors and aromas. Wine lovers should explore varieties like Vidiano, Liatiko, and Dafni, which are gaining international recognition for their quality and character. Cretan wines are a true reflection of the island's history, culture, and the dedication of its winemakers.

Miki: In addition to Crete, are there particular producers or types of wines that--once our members try them--you could say that they have really started to get to know Greek wines?

Chrisa: Beyond Crete, exploring wines from regions like Naoussa, Nemea, and Santorini can offer a deeper understanding of Greek wines. Wines made from Xinomavro, Agiorgitiko, and Assyrtiko grapes showcase the diversity and potential of Greek viticulture. These wines reflect the unique terroirs and winemaking traditions of their respective regions, providing a comprehensive introduction to Greek wines.

Miki: Tell us about climate change. How is it affecting Greek wines, and what have you noticed that producers and grape growers have started to do about it?  

Chrisa: Climate change is posing significant challenges to Greek wine producers, affecting grape ripening times, water availability, and increasing the risk of extreme weather events. However, many producers are adapting by implementing sustainable practices, such as regenerative farming, water management techniques, and selecting grape varieties that are more resilient to changing conditions. Efforts to preserve indigenous varieties, which are often well-suited to local climates, are also crucial. Producers are increasingly focusing on biodiversity and sustainability to ensure the long-term health of their vineyards.

Miki: Can you share any memorable experiences or moments from your time filming stories about Greek wine?

Chrisa: One of the most memorable experiences was witnessing the harvest while filming in Crete. Seeing the dedication and hard work of the winemakers and their families, who often have a deep, generational connection to the land, was incredibly moving. Another unforgettable moment was tasting a rare vintage with a winemaker who shared the history and personal significance of that particular bottle. These moments of connection, where the passion and history behind the wine come to life, are what make my work so rewarding.

Miki: Finally, do you have any upcoming projects or future plans you can share?  

Chrisa: I am currently working on a documentary focused on the wines of Kefalonia, another fascinating region with its own unique grape varieties and winemaking traditions. Additionally, I plan to expand my series to cover other lesser-known Greek wine regions, aiming to continue demystifying Greek wines for an international audience. Future projects also include organizing wine tasting events and workshops to further engage with wine enthusiasts and share the rich stories behind Greek wines.