Santorini, one of the Cyclades islands in the heart of the azure Aegean Sea, is a wine lover's dream. And so are some 3 million other tourists, as it's packed during peak season. The island is known for its whitewashed houses, blue-and-white domes, breathtaking sunsets, and, of course, its wine. While most visitors are lost in the romance and constantly snapping photos of the spectacular views, we're going to explore the island's wines.
Would you like to know more about viticulture (kouloura!), grapes and wine styles? Then read this article (first).
Wineries in Santorini
Gaia Wines
Gaia's wine estate is located just a few meters from the sea. It's owned by the aforementioned Yiannis Paraskevopoulos and Leo Karatsalos, although Yiannis' daughter Lito now runs the business. She's a very sociable person, studied in Edinburgh, and can't stop talking about her wines—all with a strong Scottish accent. The showpiece is the Ammonite , a stunning assyrtiko made from 300 year old sticks.
Domaine Sigalas
Much younger than Argyros is Domaine Sigalas, which opened in 1991. Domaine Sigalas was founded by Paris Sigalas, who sold just over half (60%) of his holdings to Thanasis Martinos in 2020 for a substantial sum. The winery covers 37 hectares across the island. Besides tastings, Sigalas also offers an excellent lunch overlooking the vineyards.
Vassaltis Vineyards
A young winery, founded in 2011 with their first vintage in 2015, that does things differently than the rest. Take, for example, Plethora , an Assyrtiko aged under – lab-grown – flor. You've got me, you know. A bizarre wine, which we were fortunate enough to taste at Alisachni Art & Wine Gallery. But you can also go to Vassaltis itself, as they've also opened a restaurant. Even a hotel overlooking the caldera. Well, what do you expect? One of the owners was a London banker in a previous life.
Argyros Estate
Easy to remember by thinking of a gyros sandwich. Free tip from Le Club des Vins. Founded in 1903 and renovated in 2014, Argyros is now a state-of-the-art estate nestled amidst the koulouras overlooking the sea. Argyros is run by the fourth generation, Yiannis Argyros. They own approximately 130 hectares of vineyards, the largest privately owned in Santorini. The average age of the vines is 70 years old, with the oldest over 200 years old.
Santo Wines
Santo Wines is the island's cooperative and the largest producer, producing 500,000 bottles annually. Less exciting than the tips above, but still interesting to explore this side of the wine business Worth a visit. And although touristy, the view from their terrace is breathtaking.
Restaurants
Alisachni Art & Wine Gallery (Megalochori)
Everything comes together at this place: art, delicious food, and above all, plenty of Greek wine. At Alisachni Art & Wine Gallery, you'll find not only an impressive collection of artworks but also an extensive wine cellar. When it's not too busy, the friendly owner is happy to show you around and chat. in passing a little more about Greek wine culture.
And that salad with couscous, vegetables, and feta? Simple, yet incredibly flavorful. I still think back on it fondly. Alisachni is truly a must-visit for any wine lover visiting Santorini.
Avocado Restaurant (Imerovigli)
With three million tourists a year, chances are pretty good that you will tourist trap walks in. And with this restaurant name, you almost ask for it, but nothing could be further from the truth. Local dishes, but with a touch of modernity. The food was delicious, and they also have a nice wine list.
Sleeping places
Impressive One Hotel
We stayed at the Impressive One Hotel , which was fine, just outside the towns, but you can walk (although along the highway – Santorini has few hiking trails) to Megalochori. On to Santorini!
The Vasilicos
The Vassaltis Winery Hotel, The Vasilicos looks like paradise. On the website, I see sunbeds with a view of the caldera. They do come with a price tag of around 375 euros per night, in low season. See photo (copyright The Vasilicos).
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