C.A.I.R. winery

“A toast to Rhodes,” someone whispered, raising an imaginary glass. And here, at the C.A.I.R. winery, the very air hums with the echoes of countless toasts raised over the decades. C.A.I.R., short for Compagnia Agricola Industriale Rodi, isn’t just a name; it’s a legacy woven into the fabric of Rhodian winemaking. The story begins in 1928, with a vision shared by four Italians and two Italian-Jewish individuals. They embarked on a venture that would forever shape the island’s wine industry. Imagine, in a time of change and uncertainty, the establishment of this company. It became a symbol of resilience and innovation. C.A.I.R. quickly established itself as a cornerstone of Rhodian viticulture. The winery’s commitment to quality, combined with the unique terroir of Rhodes, resulted in exceptional wines. C.A.I.R. championed both indigenous grapes like Athiri and international varieties like Merlot. This blend of tradition and innovation became a defining characteristic of the winery. The year 1947 brought a significant turning point. The Dodecanese islands, including Rhodes, were reunited with Greece. The Agricultural Bank recognized the value of C.A.I.R. and acquired its shares. This marked a transition from Italian to Greek ownership, beginning a new chapter in the winery’s story. Under Greek ownership, C.A.I.R. continued to flourish, guided by figures like Mr. Bodosakis who led the winery until 1954. The Dodecanese Association of Agricultural Cooperatives then took the reins, further solidifying C.A.I.R.’s place within the Greek wine landscape. But perhaps C.A.I.R.’s most remarkable achievement was its pioneering spirit. This winery was the first in the region to produce sparkling wine using the Méthode Traditionnelle. This traditional method, involving secondary fermentation in the bottle, elevated C.A.I.R. to new heights. It demonstrated a commitment to excellence that has persisted to this day. C.A.I.R. winery isn’t just a place to taste wine. It’s a place to experience the living history of Rhodian winemaking. It’s a testament to the enduring power of vision, tradition, and a passion for crafting exceptional wines. So, as you raise a glass of C.A.I.R. wine, remember the rich history that fills each sip. You are tasting the legacy of 1928. You are partaking in the story of Rhodes itself.