Renowned Greek winemaker Nikos Lazaridis has passed away

Pioneering Greek winemaker and entrepreneur Nikos Lazaridis has passed away, his family and company announced.. He was widely recognised as one of the figures who transformed the wider Drama region into a major hub of quality wine production in Greece.

An award-winning vintner, Lazaridis envisioned the creation of branded, high-quality Greek wines capable of standing alongside renowned international labels. His vision effectively placed Drama on the global wine map and paved the way for the region’s systematic commercial winemaking.

In 1987, believing strongly in the potential of the local land, Lazaridis founded the first fully integrated winery in Drama, which later evolved into the Nico Lazaridi estate. Drawing inspiration from Tuscany and the rich Macedonian soil, he followed a family-driven path aimed at producing internationally recognised wines with character and longevity.

The area of Agora in Drama was selected for its ideal terrain and microclimate. There, with views of Mount Pangaio, Falakro and Menikio, a modern winery was built in 1997. Seeking to further harness the potential of Macedonian vineyards, a second winery was established in 2000 in Platanotopos, Kavala, at the foothills of Mount Pangaio and the Symvolo mountain range.

As part of a continuous search for new expressions in winemaking, the Nico Lazaridi estate also turned to the famed Greek grape variety Xinomavro, expanding its portfolio with wines that further strengthened its reputation.

Announcing his death, the company wrote on its official social media account:
“With sadness, we announce the loss of Nikos Lazaridis. A man who made every step of his life a point of reference. From marble to wine, with vision, courage and dedication, he left a body of work that defines the identity of his homeland. His contribution and his work will continue to inspire his place and all those who were fortunate enough to know him.”

Nikos Lazaridis is remembered as a visionary who reshaped Greek winemaking and built a legacy that will endure for generations.