Santorini Wines
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A Comprehensive Guide to the Island's Wines
Santorini, with its rugged landscapes, whitewashed buildings, and famed sunsets, is not only a top travel destination but also a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts. The island’s unique volcanic soil, sunny climate, and rich history of winemaking make it one of the most exciting wine regions in the world. In this guide, we’ll delve into the fascinating history of winemaking in Santorini and explore some of the best wineries where visitors can taste the island’s signature wines.
01 / The History of Winemaking
Past to present
Winemaking in Santorini has deep roots, dating back over 3,500 years. The island’s volcanic history plays a significant role in shaping its wine culture. Following the massive eruption of the Thera volcano around 1600 BC, Santorini’s soil was covered with layers of volcanic ash, pumice, and lava, creating a unique terroir that is incredibly conducive to grape growing.
First
Vintages
The first known evidence of viticulture on Santorini dates back to the ancient Minoan civilization, around 2000 BC. Winemaking thrived during this period. Archaeologists have discovered amphorae (ancient jars used for storing wine) that indicate the importance of wine in daily life.
Ancient Greece
After the Minoan civilization, Santorini became a hub for wine production during the Classical period. The island’s wine was known for its distinctive flavor, and it was traded across the Aegean and Mediterranean regions. In fact, Santorini’s wine industry continued to flourish through Roman times and into the Byzantine era.
Venetian Influence
The Venetian Empire, which ruled Santorini in the 13th century, played a significant role in promoting the island’s wine production. The Venetians prized Santorini’s wines, especially the sweet, sun-dried Vinsanto, which became a sought-after export in European markets.
Modern Winemaking
Today, Santorini’s winemaking tradition remains strong, with many of the island’s wineries continuing to produce world-class wines. The island’s distinct grape varieties are key to its success. The harsh, arid conditions of Santorini, combined with the volcanic soil, give these grapes their distinctive minerality and high acidity.
02 / Vinsanto
Santorini’s Sweet Treasure
No discussion of Santorini wine would be complete without mentioning Vinsanto. This sweet, sun-dried wine is one of Santorini’s most iconic exports. Made primarily from Assyrtiko grapes, Vinsanto is produced by drying the grapes in the sun for up to 14 days, concentrating the sugars before fermentation. The result is a rich, amber-colored wine with notes of dried fruit, honey, and caramel. Vinsanto has been produced in Santorini for centuries and is a must-try for anyone visiting the island.
03 / Learn
The indigenous grape varieties
Assyrtiko
Santorini’s flagship grape, Assyrtiko, is known for its high acidity, minerality, and citrus flavors. It thrives in the island’s arid climate and is often used to produce crisp, dry white wines that pair beautifully with seafood.
Aidani
Another white grape, Aidani, is often blended with Assyrtiko to create wines with softer aromas and a floral bouquet. It adds a touch of elegance to Santorini’s white wines.
Athiri
Known for its light, fruity character, Athiri is one of the oldest grape varieties in Greece. It is used in both dry white wines and blends, adding freshness and brightness.
Mandilaria
This red grape variety is commonly found in blends and is used to make bold, tannic wines. While red wine production is less common in Santorini, Mandilaria plays an important role in the island’s winemaking heritage.
04 / Wine Traditions
The Kouloura
One of the most unique aspects of winemaking in Santorini is the kouloura training system. To protect the vines from the island’s strong winds and intense sunlight, Santorini’s vintners train the grapevines into a circular, basket-like shape close to the ground. This method, known as kouloura, shields the grapes from the elements and allows the plants to thrive in the island’s challenging environment.
05 / Santorini Wineries
Wineries to Visit
If you’re a wine lover visiting Santorini, exploring the island’s wineries is a must. Many of these wineries offer tours and tastings, where you can sample the island’s wines while learning about the unique winemaking process.
Santo Wines
Located on the caldera’s edge with breathtaking views, Santo Wines is one of the most famous wineries in Santorini.
Gaia Wines
Situated between Kamari Beach and the airport, Gaia Wines is housed in a restored tomato factory that dates back to the early 1900s.
Sigalas Winery
Nestled near the village of Oia, Domaine Sigalas is known for its high-quality Assyrtiko wines, which are often regarded as some of the best on the island.
Venetsanos Wines
One of the oldest wineries on the island, Venetsanos Winery was built in 1947 and is known for its impressive architecture, as it was the first winery in Santorini to be constructed above ground.
Boutari Winery
Boutari is one of the largest and most well-established wineries in Greece, with a branch in Santorini that has been operating since 1989.
Gavalas Winery
A family-owned winery located in Megalochori, Gavalas Winery is one of the oldest wineries on the island, with over 300 years of winemaking tradition.
Estate Argyros
Established in 1903, Estate Argyros is a family-run winery that is renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition.
07 / Articles
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