The Cinque Journal / The Greek Wine Journey
OUR COMMUNITY · GIVING BACK
Giving Back Through Wine: How Cinque Supported the American Farm School of Thessaloniki
The story of a completed 2022–2023 initiative that connected Greek wine, education and a personal bond with the School.
Published 2024-12-13 · Cinque — The Greek Wine Journey
IN THIS ARTICLE
At Cinque Wine & Deli Athens, wine has always been more than what’s in the glass. It is culture, memory, storytelling and human connection. In 2022 and 2023, that philosophy evolved into something even more meaningful: a giving-back initiative supporting the American Farm School (AFS) in Thessaloniki.
A Personal Story That Sparked a Collective Effort
This initiative began with a deeply personal connection. Cinque’s Œnologist and Sommelier, Nikitas Prassas, graduated from AFS in 2014 — an institution that played a defining role in shaping his journey into the world of wine and Greek agriculture.
Inspired by his story and by the values AFS represents, Nikitas curated a selection of 10 exceptional Greek wines, presented under the Cinque label. Each bottle became a bridge between Greek vineyards, education and community support.
How the Initiative Worked
Throughout the campaign, guests across all Cinque Wine Bars and Cinque Deli locations were invited to participate simply by enjoying wine:
– A glass enjoyed at the bar
– A bottle shared at the table
– A bottle purchased to take home or offered as a gift
A portion of every sale from the selected wines was donated directly to the American Farm School, supporting its educational programs and community initiatives.
Every choice mattered. Every glass became a gesture of support.
More Than a School — A Shared Set of Values
For the Cinque team, AFS is not just an educational institution. It represents principles that align closely with our own philosophy:
respect for the land, sustainability, authenticity, hands-on education and a deep connection between food, wine and place.
This campaign allowed us — together with our guests — to actively support those values in a tangible way.
Looking Back with Gratitude, Moving Forward with Purpose
The 2022–2023 campaign has concluded. Its purpose was to support education and the next generation of people working with the land, food and wine. It is presented here as a completed initiative, not as an ongoing donation attached to current purchases.
From everyone at Cinque Wine & Deli,
thank you for being part of this journey.
We raised our glasses together — and together, we made a difference.
The American Farm School’s 2023 annual report lists Cinque Wine Bar, Grigoris Prassas and Nikitas Prassas (AFS ’14) among its supporters. Read the official annual report.