Exploring Santorini’s premier wineries offers a captivating journey through stunning landscapes, indigenous grape varieties, and a rich history. Among the best Santorini wineries, you’ll encounter the unique Assyrtiko grapes, which thrive in the island’s volcanic soil resulting in wines with a distinct character. Set against the backdrop of Santorini’s breathtaking vistas, these wineries are more than just places for wine enthusiasts – they promise unforgettable adventures and a deeper appreciation of the island’s viticultural heritage.
What’s so Special About Santorini Wines?
Before delving into the details of the best wineries in Santorini, it’s useful to understand the unique nature of Santorini’s wines. The island’s volcanic soil, buffeted by strong winds and bathed in intense sunlight, conspire to create an exceptional array of grape varieties.
Volcanic Soil: Santorini’s soil is rich in volcanic minerals, particularly pumice and ash. This well-drained soil is porous and retains heat, which is ideal for grapevines. The soil also imparts distinct mineral notes to the wines.
Basket-Shaped Pruning: To protect the grapes from the strong Aegean winds and harsh sun, vine growers use a traditional pruning method called “kouloura.” Vines are trained into a low, basket-shaped form, which shields the grape clusters from wind and sunburn.
Water Scarcity: Santorini receives minimal rainfall, and grapevines rely on moisture absorbed from the sea mists, morning dew, and occasional rainfall. Growers often use a unique method called “submarine watering,” where vines are submerged in soil to conserve moisture.
Early morning Harvesting: Due to the island’s scorching daytime temperatures, grapes are usually harvested during the cooler morning hours. This preserves the grapes’ acidity and prevents heat stress.
Indigenous Grape Varieties: Santorini is known for its indigenous grape varieties, such as Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani. These grapevines have adapted over centuries to the island’s specific conditions and are the basis for Santorini’s unique wines.
Terraced Vineyards: Many vineyards on the island are terraced to maximize the available land and capture moisture from the sea mists. These terraces help to create a picturesque and distinctive landscape.
Where to find the best Santorini Wineries?
Santorini’s wineries may not be the largest, but they compensate with an abundance of passion, exceptional quality, and captivating ambience. Each visit is unique, a memorable experience in itself and here are our top recommendations for wineries in Santorini!
1. Santo Wines – the largest and most popular of wineries in Santorini
Far more than a mere winery, this thriving cooperative stands proud with a membership exceeding 1,000 individuals. Together, they diligently nurture and harvest the revered Assyrtiko grape alongside lesser-known varietals. Beyond its contemporary winemaking operations, Santo Wines can trace its roots back nearly seven decades, actively bolstering the island’s economic landscape. It is not limited to wine production, processing, and standardization alone; the cooperative also extends its expertise to other native emblematic products of the island, disseminating them across global markets.
Founded in 1991, the cooperative’s winery is strategically situated in one of Santorini’s most picturesque locations, right on the caldera edge of Pyrgos.
Over 400,000 visitors have had the pleasure of indulging in the cooperative’s diverse selection of wines, with options ranging from 6 to 18 different varieties, complemented by delectable local delicacies on the Sunset Terrace. For wine enthusiasts, a range of wine tours is available, along with an insightful documentary detailing the island’s rich history and winemaking traditions. The cooperative’s gift shop is well worth visiting with its full range of products, spanning from the renowned canned Santorini tomatoes to sauces, purees, and pastes.
INFORMATION: Pyrgos • Telephone: (+30) 2286028058 • Website: www.santowines.gr
WHY VISIT: To marvel at the breathtaking vistas from the splendid terrace while savoring exquisite wines.
Book on line here
2. Hatzidakis Winery – our favourite of the best wineries in Santorini
Haridimos Hatzidakis, a man known for keeping a low profile but boasting an incredible level of activity, landed in Santorini back in 1990, starting his journey as an oenologist. As time passed, the art of winemaking won him over. Hatzidakis has a penchant for tending to smaller vines and employs indigenous yeasts in the winemaking process to showcase the unique terroir of the region. His organically cultivated grapes span across 12 hectares, featuring varieties like Aidani, Assyrtiko, Mandilaria, Mavrotragano, and Voudomato, ultimately yielding around 120,000 bottles each year, half of which find their way to the US, Canada, and the UK.
The brand-new winery is a towering structure seamlessly integrated into the rock, which maintains a constant indoor temperature of 16°C, thanks to the natural soil’s insulation. Notably, the storage area upholds tradition with a north-facing window, ensuring efficient ventilation.
For those in the know, it’s a must to sample the Assyrtiko de Louros, a 100 percent Assyrtiko sourced from a special vineyard enriched with minerals from the volcanic rock. This highly sophisticated wine is matured for two years in oak barrels and produced in limited quantities, with only 1,000 bottles crafted annually.
One of the remarkable aspects of Hatzidakis’ wines is that they all carry the unmistakable mark of the winemaker. Even if you’re not a wine connoisseur, you’ll soon find that after savoring a Hatzidakis creation, it’s a distinct taste you won’t easily forget.
They offer an immersive wine experience that includes a guided tour and a delightful tasting of six exceptional wines, all for just 25€ per person.
For more information visit their website, www.hatzidakiswines.gr
If you’re not staying in Pyrgos and want to combine wine tasting with lunch or dinner, check out the Best restaurants in Pyrgos.
3. Gavalas Winery – small scale, intimate winery with amazing wines
In late August, fortunate visitors on the island can partake in a grand celebration at Gavalas Winery, where the grapes for Vinsanto are pressed. Gavalas Winery, steeped in tradition, upholds many of the age-old production methods with an almost ceremonial dedication. Winemaker Giorgos Gavalas, a fourth-generation vintner, collaborates with his son Vangelis and grape producers in Megalochori, Emporio, and Akrotiri to craft nine variations of the island’s native grape varieties. The winery’s annual output reaches 70,000 bottles, and a significant 60 percent finds its way to the US, Japan, Belgium, France, and the UK.
While Assyrtiko takes the lead in terms of cultivation and vinification, Giorgos and his winery have garnered considerable acclaim for their commitment to smaller, lesser-known local grape varieties such as Voudomato and Katsano. Take, for instance, the Voudomato rosé, which boasts a remarkably fresh taste achieved by allowing the grape pomace to infuse in the pressed juice for six to seven hours. This delightful wine is produced in limited quantities, with no more than 3,000 bottles crafted each year, making it a truly worthy indulgence.
Furthermore, the winery has established a nursery for experimental purposes, where they are cultivating Voudomato and Gaidouria, along with a few other varieties that remain a well-guarded secret. The hope is that these secretive varieties will come to fruition and contribute to the creation of the winery’s next exceptional label in the coming decade.
Check out their wine tasting options here
Some other notable Santorini Wineries
4. Venetsanos Winery
Nestled on the stunning cliffs of Santorini, Venetsanos Winery is renowned for its unparalleled vistas of the Aegean Sea and the island’s caldera. This family-run winery seamlessly fuses tradition and innovation, producing an exceptional array of varietals that capture the distinctiveness of Santorini’s volcanic soil and native grape varieties. Guests are invited to explore the wine production process in their remarkable subterranean cellars, which blend modern technology with time-honored techniques. The winery’s contemporary design harmonizes elegantly with the natural surroundings, providing a tranquil ambiance for wine tasting. Venetsanos Winery is located in the village of Megalochori.
5. Argyros Winery
A family-owned winery with deep roots in Santorini’s winemaking traditions, Argiros Winery specializes in crafting exceptional wines from their vineyards, including the ancient vine Assyrtiko. They offer guided tours of their charming wine cellar, providing a glimpse into the island’s winemaking history. Argiros Winery is well-known for their Nykteri and Vinsanto wines, which reflect the unique character of the island. The winery is located in the picturesque village of Episkopi Gonia, situated in the central part of the island
6. Sigalas Winery
Sigalas Winery, nestled in the village of Oia, offers an intimate wine-tasting experience in a picturesque courtyard setting. The winery is famed for their championing of organic farming and sustainable winemaking practices on Santorini. They offer a range of expressions of the iconic Santorinian varietal, Assyrtiko. Guests can gain insights into sustainable winemaking practices and the island’s viticultural heritage. The winery is located in the northern part of Santorini, providing a unique setting for wine enthusiasts to enjoy.
7. Vassaltis Winery
Vassaltis Winery is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Santorini’s vibrant wine scene. Situated in Vourvoulos, this boutique winery is celebrated for its commitment to crafting wines that authentically capture the island’s unique terroir. With a dedication to organic and sustainable viticulture, Vassaltis produces exceptional varietals, with the iconic Assyrtiko at the forefront. The winery’s modern design harmonizes seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, providing a tranquil ambiance for wine enthusiasts. Guests can indulge in guided tours, delving into the winemaking process, and enjoy tastings of these exquisite wines. Vassaltis Winery stands as a testament to Santorini’s vinicultural excellence and a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and memorable wine experience on the island.
Santorini Grape and Wine Varieties
Assyrtiko: This is the flagship grape variety of Santorini and is celebrated for its crisp acidity, citrus notes, and distinct minerality. Assyrtiko wines can range from bone-dry to slightly sweet, and they pair well with seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.
Nykteri: Nykteri is another iconic Santorini wine, typically made from Assyrtiko grapes. It’s characterized by its oak aging, which imparts complexity and richness. Nykteri wines often have flavors of ripe stone fruits and honey, making them a delightful accompaniment to hearty dishes.
Vinsanto: Vinsanto is a unique and cherished dessert wine produced in Santorini. Made from sun-dried grapes (usually Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani), it’s known for its sweet, luscious, and honeyed character with hints of dried fruits. It’s a perfect wine to pair with desserts or savor on its own.
Athiri: Athiri is another native grape variety in Santorini, producing aromatic and refreshing white wines. These wines can exhibit flavors of tropical fruits and a pleasant acidity.
Aidani: Aidani is often used in blends, contributing to the aromatic complexity of Santorini wines. It’s known for its floral and fruity notes, making it a valued component in some of the island’s finest white wines.
Mavrotragano: is an additional grape variety in Santorini, typically used to produce red wines. It is not as common or well-known as the white grape varieties such as Assyrtiko, but it has been gaining recognition for its unique character and the potential to produce high-quality red wines. Mavrotragano wines are characterized by their deep, dark color, robust tannins, and complex flavors. Some describe these wines as having notes of black fruits, spices, and a distinctive minerality, reflecting the volcanic terroir of Santorini.
The content here has not been influenced by commissions as we do not receive any financial benefit from including these wineries. The information provided in provided in good faith and based on our own experiences and that of guests who have stayed at Demeter Cave House.
