Our Family
The story of Aretousa Wines and Spirits begins in the early 1970s, when the founding members of the Pontikakis family turned their focus to the cultivation of their private vineyards in Crete. What started as a personal pursuit soon evolved into a professional commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality and character.
In 1974, Emmanouil Pontikakis officially introduced the family’s first bottled wine, Eviva, combining traditional Cretan winemaking methods with modern French techniques. The result was a product that stood out for its balance, aroma, and authenticity — earning strong market recognition and setting the foundation for the creation of the Aretousa brand.
Inspired by the timeless figure of Aretousa from the literary classic Erotokritos, our name reflects a deep respect for Greek heritage while embracing a forward-looking philosophy. Aretousa represents the harmony of tradition and innovation — values that continue to guide our winemaking today.
At Aretousa Wines and Spirits, we are committed to delivering excellence at every stage of production. We source the finest grapes from across Greece, implement strict quality control, and collaborate closely with local growers and producers. Our mission is to craft wines that reflect the richness of the Greek land and culture, while meeting the expectations of a modern, global market.
We invite you to discover a portfolio of wines that combine authenticity, elegance, and consistency — the essence of Aretousa in every bottle.
The initial endeavor proved successful: Eviva wines quickly gained popularity and established a strong presence in the market. With a vision for growth, the Pontikakis family decided to scale up operations and relocated to Athens, setting up a small but fully equipped facility to bottle a wider range of quality wines.
By 1991, responding to the evolving demands of the industry, the family initiated the development of a modern, compact winery. Within this space, seven distinct wine varieties were carefully matured — a clear expression of their commitment to continuous improvement and refinement.
This period also marked the official emergence of the Aretousa brand, inspired by the legendary heroine of Erotokritos. With a name that bridges literature, tradition, and timeless elegance, Aretousa established its place as a recognized name in the world of Greek wine.
About us
The Next Generation of Winemaking
The next generation of winemaking marks an exciting transition into the future, bringing with it freshness, creativity, and a spirit of innovation. These young winemakers—heirs to a flourishing tradition—undertake the responsibility of continuing their predecessors’ work while shaping the future identity of the winery.
Guided by continuous improvement and forward-thinking ambition, this new generation sets high goals: to preserve the timeless value of family heritage while boldly pursuing innovation. In a field where art meets science, these emerging creators bring new energy to redefine contemporary Greek wine.
At the heart of their philosophy lies the redesign of packaging—not merely as a matter of aesthetics, but as a statement of identity and sustainability. From biodegradable materials to eco-conscious and stylish designs, each bottle becomes a small work of art with a green conscience.
Close collaboration with vine growers and producers remains a cornerstone. Through the constant exchange of experience, know-how, and best practices, a strong community is built—one that champions quality and progress in Greek winemaking.
Aretousa Wines and Spirits
Aretousa Wines and Spirits is committed to delivering exceptional quality at every stage of production. We combine time-honored methods passed down through generations with the most modern techniques, crafting wines that embody both tradition and innovation.
Our grape selection is done with utmost care, and rigorous quality control is applied throughout the entire production process. We work hand in hand with local farmers and growers across Greece, supporting the local economy and keeping traditional practices alive. Through our wines, we showcase the rich diversity of the Greek land, creating a flavorful map that reflects our cultural heritage.
