A Wine Lover’s Guide to Santorini

Greece is a hop, skip and a jump away from us here in Spain. Santorini is one of the most famous of its destinations, and as well as being a trendy destination, Santorini has gained an ever-growing reputation as being a wine lover’s paradise.

The cultivation of grape vines has been happening on the island for hundreds of years. Today, as many as 40 different local grape varieties are grown here. While its produce is yet to gain the global prestige of some of its European counterparts, the geographical factors that shape Santorini means that it can offer a different take on this age-old drink.

But what makes Santorini’s wines so special, and where can they be found across the island? Here’s all you need to know.

Climate and geology

The distinctive geological makeup of Santorini lends itself to the creation of some truly unique wines. The formation of the island is the result of many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions over the years, which have transformed its geology and topography. This makes large portions of the landscape essentially a volcanic desert, with dry, rocky terrains.

The harsh winds and low rainfall create unfavourable growing conditions for vines. As a result, producers commonly use the kouloura (basket) growing method, whereby vines grow in circles low to the ground. This means they’re protected from the wind and sheltered from the scorching sunlight – they’re also often surrounded by dry stone walls. These walls, along with the semi-porous pumice rocks that cover the soil, help to absorb what little moisture is available, either from rainfall or sea mist.

Specialty wines

White wines take center stage in Santorini’s viticultural landscape, meaning red varieties are often largely overlooked, despite many being produced on the island. Typical Santorini whites are characterized by mineral and citrus scents, and often contain a high alcohol volume. The island’s flagship grape used in wine production is Assyrtiko, but Aidani and Athiri are also very popular varieties.

One of the most revered examples of a 100% Assyrtiko white is the Nychteri from Domaine Sigalas. This dry white is made from vines over 60 years old, and offers aromas of ripe citrus and honeysuckle, along with a notable but pleasant minerality. The volume of this variety is typical of many Santorini vintages at 15%.

Where to visit

Santorini’s produce headlines wine lists in restaurants and eateries up and down the island. If you’re into your wines, be sure to sample some local vintages when out and about on your next visit, and bring a bottle of your favourite tipple home to flex your new-found viticultural credentials.

There are so many visitor-friendly vineyards found all across the region, where you can learn all about the traditional growing methods, and perhaps even enjoy a sample or two. Gavalas Winery in the village of Megalochori is a family-run complex and is one of the oldest of its kind in Santorini. They offer visitors a vineyard tour and wine tasting experience, where you’ll get the opportunity to sniff out your favorite variety, all under the watchful eye of their professional sommeliers and enologists.