The rich history and culture of the Mediterranean influences the Papadopoulos family in the art of jewelry creation for four generations, along with their passion for fine wines.
As a young adult, Louis developed an interest in the art of vineyard development and classic winemaking with the enthusiasm and support of friends and relatives.
His first experience with winemaking was in 1961, in the Kiffissia suburb of Athens, Greece. Surrounded by the centuries-old vineyards, he made his first barrels of traditional red and white Greek wines. The red was a representation of the mythological homeland of Hercules (Nemea, Corinth); the white (Retsina) was a type of wine exclusive to Athens (Attica region). He cultivated his first small vineyard on his forty-acre farm in Corinth, alongside lemon, orange, and apricot groves.
In 1984, the family relocated to Northern Virginia, and in addition to their jewelry business, continued making homemade wine and appreciating the local varieties of grapes. With the same desire to share the passion of fine winemaking, Mediterranean Cellars Winery opened in 2003. With its old world atmosphere and breathtaking views from the patio and tasting room, the family looks forward to continue sharing the rich culture and winemaking heritage.