(BBC) - "We are located in the most historic vineyards of Greece," says Vassilis Papagiannakos as we admire the view.

"There has been continuous wine production here since Ancient Greece."

Fields of pistachio trees, olive trees and, of course, vines stretch between here and Athens.

The three generations that Mr Papagiannakos' family has been running a winery in the Attica region, south-east of the capital, pale in comparison to the length of time wine has been made here.

But tradition is something he is very proud of.

"The viticulture is almost attached to our DNA."

About 80% of the wine produced at this vineyard is white - with a particular focus on the local Savatiano grape variety, which does well on the dry plains of the Mesogaia.

But the economic crisis in Greece has made it very difficult for his business - like many others here - to operate.

In the nearby town of Markopoulo, people are looking to the past for solutions to their difficulties.

In the central square - still known here by the ancient term "agora" or marketplace - Malvena Slee has just picked up today's €50 ration of bank notes from the ATM.

She says she moved to the town three years ago from Athens because "life is easier outside the city".

"You can have your own garden, your animals - you can protect yourself in a way," she says.

It is important to say that this town is far from showing the signs of severe shortages or starvation.

But cafe owner Aris Gkliatis is embracing a return to simpler times.

"We are finding a way to survive in this situation," he says.

Earlier today he accepted tomatoes in place of cash payment, he says, and many people are shunning modern gadgets and expenses.

"We are going back to the real values of living - the old way of living."