Nestled amidst the rolling hills and olive groves of Kefalonia, Polenta Health Foods is more than a farm—it is a living legacy. In the picturesque village near Fiskardo, where our family has cultivated grapes and olives for generations, our land tells a story of resilience, tradition, and passion. Among our proudest accomplishments is the revival of a vineyard in a place steeped in history: Akontrafos.
This remote location near the village of Plagia has been at the heart of our family’s farming heritage since the early 1900s. My grandfather, a man of grit and determination, tended to his vineyard here with love and care, producing the Mavrodaphne variety that reflects the unique character of Kefalonia. But as history would have it, the devastation of World War II left the land abandoned, and over time, the once-thriving vineyard faded into memory.
Today, I am humbled and deeply proud to continue the legacy of my ancestors by planting a new vineyard in Akontrafos. This sacred act feels like reconnecting with our roots, breathing new life into a tradition that once seemed lost. Each vine is a tribute to my grandfather’s labor and dreams, as well as the spirit of Kefalonia itself—a land rich in natural beauty and steeped in history. It is my hope that this vineyard will thrive and become a beacon of tradition for future generations, just as it was for my family over a century ago.
The Mavrodaphne
The almost black color, the dense aromas of dried plum and black currant, the high alcohol and the moderate acidity that characterize the wines of the variety, fit perfectly into a classic sweet wine profile.
Then, however, comes the particularly spicy “bitterness”, which gives a complex dimension to the finish of the wines from Mavrodaphne. In recent years, these interesting characteristics are increasingly found in dry winemaking, with the absence of sugars further enhancing this sweet nose-bitter-sour taste game, which is strongly reminiscent of the great Amarones of Veneto.
Mavrodaphne is without a doubt a great variety of the Greek vineyard. Acclaimed in the sweet, “Port-type” wine segment, but also unexplored and unexpected in its dry expression, it is certain to win over lovers of wine authenticity, diversity and variety.
Our Organic Wine
Kefalonia Island is home to a thriving wine industry, and the natural wine produced on our organic farm is a standout example of the island’s rich terroir.
Our wine is made with love and care using the finest, locally-grown grapes, and goes through a small scale production process in order to ensure that every bottle is as tasty as possible. Our natural wine is made without any additives or preservatives, ensuring that you are getting a pure and authentic product that truly represents the flavors of Kefalonia. We believe that our commitment to sustainability and traditional methods is what sets our wine apart from the rest, and we hope that you will taste the difference in every sip. If you are looking for a high-quality, local wine made by unique grape varieties that is truly representative of the rich traditions of Kefalonia Island, look no further than the natural wine produced on Polenta organic farm.
We are proud to offer a product that is made with love and care, and we hope that you will join us in celebrating the natural flavors and traditions of our island with every bottle.
The Mavrodaphne
The almost black color, the dense aromas of dried plum and black currant, the high alcohol and the moderate acidity that characterize the wines of the variety, fit perfectly into a classic sweet wine profile.
Then, however, comes the particularly spicy “bitterness”, which gives a complex dimension to the finish of the wines from Mavrodaphne. In recent years, these interesting characteristics are increasingly found in dry winemaking, with the absence of sugars further enhancing this sweet nose-bitter-sour taste game, which is strongly reminiscent of the great Amarones of Veneto.
Mavrodaphne is without a doubt a great variety of the Greek vineyard. Acclaimed in the sweet, “Port-type” wine segment, but also unexplored and unexpected in its dry expression, it is certain to win over lovers of wine authenticity, diversity and variety.
All About Our Organic Wine
Kefalonia Island is home to a thriving wine industry, and the natural wine produced on our organic farm is a standout example of the island’s rich terroir.
Our wine is made with love and care using the finest, locally-grown grapes, and goes through a small scale production process in order to ensure that every bottle is as tasty as possible. Our natural wine is made without any additives or preservatives, ensuring that you are getting a pure and authentic product that truly represents the flavors of Kefalonia. We believe that our commitment to sustainability and traditional methods is what sets our wine apart from the rest, and we hope that you will taste the difference in every sip. If you are looking for a high-quality, local wine made by unique grape varieties that is truly representative of the rich traditions of Kefalonia Island, look no further than the natural wine produced on Polenta organic farm.
We are proud to offer a product that is made with love and care, and we hope that you will join us in celebrating the natural flavors and traditions of our island with every bottle.
The Location
Akontrafos Legacy
Akontrafos is more than just a vineyard—it is a living testament to renewal, a place where the past is honored while a future rich with promise is cultivated.
As a child, I grew up listening to enchanting stories about Akontrafos, told with reverence and pride by my family. My father would often take me there, guiding me through its quiet beauty and pointing out where everything once flourished—fields of lentils, onions, and garlic, each carefully tended by the hands of those who came before us.
He would speak of the days when my grandfather nurtured the land, growing the prized Vostilidi grape variety alongside sweet, sun-dried raisin grapes. These memories filled me with awe and a deep connection to Akontrafos, as if I could feel the heartbeat of our family’s history pulsing through its soil.
Now, as I bring new life to this land by planting Mavrodaphne, I feel an unshakable sense of responsibility and pride, knowing that I am not just cultivating vines, but also preserving the legacy of my ancestors and ensuring that Akontrafos remains a symbol of resilience and tradition for generations to come.
Questions about the New “Akontrafos” Vineyard
1. What makes the Akontrafos vineyard unique compared to other vineyards in Kefalonia?
The Akontrafos vineyard stands out for its rich history and deep connection to our family’s legacy. Unlike other vineyards, Akontrafos is not just a place of cultivation but a symbol of renewal and tradition. The vineyard is located in a remote, picturesque area near the village of Plagia, where the unique terroir—characterized by fertile soil and an ideal climate—enhances the quality and character of our grapes. What truly makes it unique is its story: it is a revived vineyard on land that has been part of the Mavrokefalos family’s farming heritage since the 1900s, carrying the essence of Kefalonian culture and tradition.
2. What varieties of grapes are grown in the Akontrafos vineyard?
The Akontrafos vineyard is dedicated to cultivating the Mavrodaphne grape variety, known for producing exceptional wines with rich, complex flavors. Historically, my grandfather also grew the Vostilidi variety and raisin grapes on this land. By planting Mavrodaphne, we are not only reviving the vineyard but also ensuring its future with a grape variety that represents the best of Kefalonian winemaking traditions.
3. How has the vineyard been restored after being abandoned for so many years?
Restoring the Akontrafos vineyard has been a labor of love, requiring both dedication and a deep respect for the land. The process began with clearing the overgrown terrain and preparing the soil, ensuring it was fertile and ready to support new vines. We carefully selected the Mavrodaphne variety, which thrives in the region’s climate and pays homage to Kefalonian traditions. The planting process involved traditional farming methods combined with modern techniques to ensure sustainability and high-quality production. This restoration is more than a practical effort; it is a spiritual journey to revive a piece of our family’s history and pass it on to future generations.
4. Are the grapes grown at Akontrafos used exclusively for Mavrodaphne wine?
Yes, the grapes grown at Akontrafos are currently dedicated exclusively to the production of Mavrodaphne wine. This decision reflects our commitment to creating a product that captures the unique character of the vineyard and the essence of Kefalonian winemaking. By focusing on Mavrodaphne, we aim to craft a wine that not only celebrates the rich heritage of Akontrafos but also delivers a distinctive and memorable experience to wine enthusiasts.
5. What is the best way to store your wine?
Natural wine is best stored in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or near a heat source. If you can’t finish a bottle within a few days, it is recommended to transfer the wine to a smaller container to minimize the amount of air the wine comes into contact with. This will help to preserve the quality and flavor of the wine.
Family Farm-All Natural – Authentic Olive Oils
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes the Akontrafos vineyard unique compared to other vineyards in Kefalonia?
The Akontrafos vineyard stands out for its rich history and deep connection to our family’s legacy. Unlike other vineyards, Akontrafos is not just a place of cultivation but a symbol of renewal and tradition. The vineyard is located in a remote, picturesque area near the village of Plagia, where the unique terroir—characterized by fertile soil and an ideal climate—enhances the quality and character of our grapes. What truly makes it unique is its story: it is a revived vineyard on land that has been part of the Mavrokefalos family’s farming heritage since the 1900s, carrying the essence of Kefalonian culture and tradition.
2. What varieties of grapes are grown in the Akontrafos vineyard?
The Akontrafos vineyard is dedicated to cultivating the Mavrodaphne grape variety, known for producing exceptional wines with rich, complex flavors. Historically, my grandfather also grew the Vostilidi variety and raisin grapes on this land. By planting Mavrodaphne, we are not only reviving the vineyard but also ensuring its future with a grape variety that represents the best of Kefalonian winemaking traditions.
3. How has the vineyard been restored after being abandoned for so many years?
Restoring the Akontrafos vineyard has been a labor of love, requiring both dedication and a deep respect for the land. The process began with clearing the overgrown terrain and preparing the soil, ensuring it was fertile and ready to support new vines. We carefully selected the Mavrodaphne variety, which thrives in the region’s climate and pays homage to Kefalonian traditions. The planting process involved traditional farming methods combined with modern techniques to ensure sustainability and high-quality production. This restoration is more than a practical effort; it is a spiritual journey to revive a piece of our family’s history and pass it on to future generations.
4. Are the grapes grown at Akontrafos used exclusively for Mavrodaphne wine?
Yes, the grapes grown at Akontrafos are currently dedicated exclusively to the production of Mavrodaphne wine. This decision reflects our commitment to creating a product that captures the unique character of the vineyard and the essence of Kefalonian winemaking. By focusing on Mavrodaphne, we aim to craft a wine that not only celebrates the rich heritage of Akontrafos but also delivers a distinctive and memorable experience to wine enthusiasts.
5. What is the best way to store your wine?
Natural wine is best stored in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or near a heat source. If you can’t finish a bottle within a few days, it is recommended to transfer the wine to a smaller container to minimize the amount of air the wine comes into contact with. This will help to preserve the quality and flavor of the wine.
Family Farm-All Natural – Authentic Olive Oils
