4000 years of history in a wine glass
Winemaking is strongly linked to Santorini’s history, dating back to the Bronze Age. The vineyards of Santorini are the oldest in Greece and among the oldest in Europe and they stand out as they are propagated from the roots and not from cuttings.
Thanks to the volcanic soil of the island, Santorini’s vineyards have never been affected by diseases, such as phylloksera, that destroyed most European vineyards during the 19th century. The uniqueness and the peculiarity of the ground have given a characteristic taste to the wines produced in Santorini making them famous all around the world. Assyrtiko, the dry full body wine is the star of Santorini’s wines, with its bright color and its citrus aromas combined with a pleasant mineral character. You should also try Vinsanto, the multi-awarded sweet dessert wine which is the crown jewel of Santorini wines. Do not resist a wine tasting which will give you the chance to discover more varieties like Aidani, Athiri, and the red Mandilaria and Mavrotragano.
The wine lovers will have the chance to visit many wineries spread all over the island and discover its rich wine history. Most of the wineries and vineyards in Santorini are located in the southern and central part, in the villages of Mesa and Exo Gonia, Megalochori, Messaria and can be visited individually or during an organized wine tour.