Romeiko

Romeiko or Mavroromeiko (Greek: Ρωμαίικο or Ρωμέικο) is a red grape variety. Its name derives from the term Romios that is used to refer to modern Greeks (literally Roman as a citizen of the former Byzantine Empire).

Romeiko is an indigenous Greek grape and one of the most widely grown red varieties in Greece. It is found on many Cycladic islands and Crete, prominently in the region of Chania and in particular Kissamos where it thrives. Romeiko vineyards are late maturing and high-yielding, producing high-Baumé must that is mixed with other varieties to give red, rosé and white wines. The pomace is distilled to produce Tsikoudia.