On a green-clad hill, eight km southeast of Patras'
centre, are located the facilities of Achaia Clauss winery, distinguished as one
of the topmost tourist sites of the region.
Its founder, Bavarian Gustav Clauss arrived in Patras in 1854 to work
in a German company dealing with exportation of raisin. During an excursion, he
visited this region that charmed him with its natural beauty. He bought a small
vineyard just to produce some wine for self-consumption and he ended up to the
establishment of this Castle-Winery that survives intact till now. In 1861 he
founded Achaia Clauss Co and the excellent quality wines, including Mavrodaphne
of Patras, conquered both Greek and international market.
The stone-made buildings, the large oak carved barrels with one century-old
Mavrodaphne, the traditional cellar where visitors are welcomed as well as the
unique landscape with the breathtaking view attract approximately 200,000 visitors
per year.
