Try smooth Santorini wines

In this article, Try Smooth Santorini Wines, we will briefly explain the main characteristics of Santorini wines, its history, and most importantly, where are the best wineries and which are the best wines. Tasting a Santorini wine is a must when visiting this magical island.

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About the wine region

Santorini wine region is located on the island of Santorini, which is part of the southern Cyclades archipelago. Wine production in this area dates back to ancient times, but it gained international recognition during the Middle Ages, largely due to the influence of the Republic of Venice. This Italian impact can still be seen in modern winemaking practices on the island.

Note: Do not confuse the renowned Tuscan sweet wine, Vin Santo, with Santorini’s Vinsanto/Visanto.

History

In its early geological history, Santorini was the core of an ancient volcano that erupted in about 1640–1620 BC. Many of the islands were submerged, creating the modern archipelago. Even though Santorinians had already produced wine in Greek and Roman times, the region became particularly important in the Middle Ages when the Venetians captured control of the island from the Byzantine Empire in 1203.

Under their influence, with this sizeable trade web and maritime domination, Santorini wines were widely exported throughout the Mediterranean and Europe. The wine, particularly prized for its ability to withstand the month-long sea voyages, was especially sweet and had high alcohol content. So highly appreciated were Santorini wines that when the Ottoman Turks seized the territory in 1579, they still permitted its non-stop commerce even though the religious orders of their Muslim faith typically forbade alcohol. Furthermore, when the Russian Orthodox Church adopted Santorini wine as the official Eucharistic wine of the church, it allowed the Santorinians to trade freely with Russia, despite the frequent wars between the two empires.

Consequently, during the early 19th century, wine production continued to increase. The best red wine was Santorin (or Santo, Vino di Baccho). Nykteri (Vino di Notte or night wine) was a more famous white wine. However, the “king” of Santorini wines was the Vino Santo.

Climate and geography

Santorini’s distinctly Mediterranean climate is characterized by warm temperatures, low rainfall, and high humidity during the growing season. The area has strong winds coming off the sea, which can damage the vines and grapes if they are not trained low to the ground for protection. Furthermore, the vineyard soils of the region are impoverished and composed of volcanic ash and rocks. However, the chalky subsoils are porous, which helps to retain some of the humidity in the air and release it as water at night for the vines to use. So, overall, there are better conditions for cultivating wine.

The other advantage is that Santorini is immune to phylloxera, as its volcanic soils lack the clay required for the parasite to survive. As a result, many of the roots found on the vines in Santorini are centuries old. The grape growers of Santorini use a unique bush-training system known as koulara to grow the grapes. As the vines grow, they are netted into baskets, with the grapes facing toward the inside of the ring.

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Grapes, wine. And wine styles

Did you know that Santorini is most famously known for its indigenous white grape varieties, Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani?

Santorini’s dry whites, primarily made from Assyrtiko with some Athiri and Aidani, are the island’s standout modern wine style. They are crisp, mineral, and citrus-scented, with oak-aged versions offering added complexity and hints of nuttiness.

The most complex style is Nykteri, made from overripe grapes given skin contact and barrel-aged for three to ten months. Named for the tradition of nighttime harvesting, Nykteri wines are richer, featuring exotic fruit and honeysuckle notes.

Red wines, mainly from Mandilaria and Mavrotragano, comprise about 20% of the vineyard area and are deep crimson with soft tannins and fruit-forward flavors, often with a smoky character.

Santorini’s signature dessert wine, Vinsanto, combines acidity and sweetness, with flavors of dried citrus, figs, and toffee. While its name comes from exports in the 16th century, it is distinct from Italian “Vin Santo.” Vinsanto is primarily made from Assyrtiko, with traditional methods involving sun-drying grapes before fermentation and lengthy barrel aging. Mezzo, a less sweet variation, has not achieved appellation status.

Vinsanto

Vinsanto is an ancient winemaking tradition of Santorini that dates back thousands of years and represents an integral part of Santorini’s history.

For a wine to be labeled Vinsanto in Santorini, the wine must contain the Assyrtiko grape. The remaining includes Athiri, Aidani, and some small amounts of locally grown white sorts.

Furthermore, Vinsanto is known for its golden-orange to dark-amber coloring with a complex bouquet of dried apricots, golden raisins, and other dried fruits combined with sweet spice and an underlying minerality. Although classified as a dessert wine, you can enjoy it with various foods.

Note: Do not confuse Vinsatno with Vin Santo, the Italian “Holy Wine” used in the Catholic Eucharist.

In 2002, the EU determined that there was enough information to name Santorini, Greece, as Vinsanto’s place of origin, thus granting the island exclusive rights to use Vinsanto in its sweet wines.

Best Santorini wines

Below are tasting notes for different Santorini wines.

Note: On a subjective 100-point scale, these wines score from 95 to 98 points.

Domaine Sigalas. Mavrotragano. 2018 (red).

This wine is made 100% from the Mavrotragano grape. The taste consists of rich textured juice with maple syrup, cinnamon, and blueberries.

Estate Argyros. Cuvée Monsigniori. 2017 (white).

Made from 100-year-old Assyrtiko vines grown on two plots, this spends nine months on lees in stainless steel. It is a delicate merge of tropical fruit and salinity in this mouth. Beautifully balanced aromas include those of fresh bread, salt, and honey.

Estate Argyros. Cuvée Evdemon. 2017 (white).

The word ‘Evdemon ‘Means good spirit. This exceptional 100% Assyrtiko, made from 100 to 150-year-old grapes, comes from Pyrgos’ highlands.

Argyros – Vinsanto 20 Years Barrel Aged

Vinsanto, made from white sundried grapes (80% Assyrtiko), has a deep amber color and flavors of butterscotch, roasted coffee beans, raisins, and cocoa. This wine is full-bodied with a beautiful balance of sweetness and acidity.

Pure Santorini wine

In the mouth, its structure is incredible. A rich body, sharp acidity, and tremendous concentration give balance lessons. Lemon peel, peach, unripe apricot, pear, honeycomb, lemon blossom, flint, smoke, and sourdough fill the mouth.

Domaine Sigalas Kavalieros
This wine is made from the indigenous Assyrtiko grape, grown in a single plot called Kavalieros in the village of Imerovigli. The climatic conditions of Santorini, particularly dry and characterized by the violent gusts of the Meltemi, have led, since ancient times, to cultivate the vine on the ground in tiny holes, wrapping the shoots on themselves to form a sort of circular basket.

Notable Wineries in Santorini

While you might be drawn to the popular villages of Oia and Fira, I encourage you to explore some of the more traditional towns in the southern part of the island for a tranquil experience. Megalochori, with its charming church bells and winding paths, is a delightful option. Here, you can visit the Alisachni Art & Wine Gallery, which serves an array of exquisite dishes, such as prawns with ouzo or octopus with fava caramelized onions, paired with a diverse selection of local Santorini wines.

Another fantastic option is to drive to Pyrgos, a village that is home to several nearby wineries, including Santos Wines. You can also enjoy a meal at one of its fantastic restaurants that offer stunning views and delectable cuisine, like Agaze Bistro Restaurant Bottega.

For those interested in the rich history of Santorini wine, consider participating in a wine tour that typically includes guided vineyard tours, comprehensive tastings of various regional varietals, and insights into the distinctive growing conditions shaped by the island’s volcanic soil. These tours not only provide a unique tasting experience but also educate visitors about the island’s wine culture, making them a highlight of any itinerary.

Note: You can find a lot more about the best Santorini Wineries in our related article.