A thin dust covers the soft ground under the verdant green vines. All around, there is the blackness of the volcanic terrain and the deep blue of the sea. What other vineyard in the world can boast such a setting?

The grapes grow nestled inside basket-like vine structures lying on the ground (part of a unique cultivation technique) in fields abutting the main roads. In this Tuscany of the Aegean, a vast wine culture awaits you. Some of the most important Greek wines are produced by the vineyards of Santorini, which today cover more than 1500 hectares across an island where grapes have been grown for more than 3000 years.

In more recent history, it may have taken a little more than three decades to recognize the potential of Assyrtiko, the predominant variety in Santorini, but no one doubts its absolute rule anymore. Some 20 wineries are in operation at present and nearly all of them welcome visitors.

Inside centuries-old underground wine cellars or in ultramodern wineries dug out of the volcanic rock and facing the open sea, you’ll discover that, from a single grape, one can produce wine in almost infinite variations as you try the best vintages of Assyrtiko, the special character of Nychteri and the sun-dried, deliciously sweet Vinsanto.

The unique features of lesser-known varieties, including the whites Athiri and Aidani and the reds Mavrotragano and Mandilaria, are also appealing.

Estate Argyros

Why should I go?

To admire this established estate’s brand-new, ultra-modern winery in the heart of its privately owned vineyard, all reminiscent of Napa Valley.

What should I try?

The PDO Santorini Vareli, the Aidani and the 20-year-old Vinsanto, as well as the signature Vinsanto-infused chocolate treat that accompanies it.

Art Space

Why should I go?

To learn about the history of winemaking as recounted by an enchanting storyteller, and to admire works created by talented artists.

What should I try?

The Vinsanto, the Nychteri and the Aghios Avgoustos white.

Artemis Karamolegos Winery

Why should I go?

To experience a Vinsanto that has been aged for 60 months prior to being bottled.

What should I try?

The PDO Santorini “Pyritis” and “Mystirio/14.”

Avantis cellar doors

Why should I go?

To get a look at a modern space dedicated to wine that also happens to include a spa and a restaurant, as well as cellar and lounge areas where you can relax with a glass in hand.

What should I try?

The “Delfinia” and the “Afoura,” both PDO Santorini.

Boutari Winery

Why should I go?

To meet the fourth generation of a family that laid the foundations of modern Greek winemaking. Boutari has wineries in various areas, so a wine tasting here allows you to compare Assyrtiko to other Greek varieties.

What should I try?

The PDO Kallisti Reserve – the first bottled dry white Santorini wine aged in barrels.

Gaia Wines

Why should I go?

To visit the “native land” of Thalassitis, a singular local wine that has won over many oenophiles around the world, as well as to do some wine tasting next to the island’s Mavri Paralia (Black Beach).

What should I try?

The PDO Thalassitis.

Gavalas Winery

Why should I go?

To taste rare varieties that this family is preserving and protecting through cultivation.

What should I try?

The PDO Santorini Natural Ferment, the Katsano and the Xenoloo.

Hatzidakis Winery

Why should I go?

To see a winery literally built into the rock, which belonged to the late Haridimos Hatzidakis, among the most important Greek producers of recent times. His family now runs the winery. Today, the bottled wines that he created are sought after by collectors.

What should I try?

The Louros and the Skytali 2017.

Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum

Why should I go?

To take a wonderful tour (available in 14 languages) of an underground wine museum.

What should I try?

Their limited production, which is only available there.

Volcanic slopes vineyards

Why should I go?

For a unique experience in a boutique winery of industrial design, which produces only one wine label, Pure, from 100% Assyrtiko grapes from their privately owned vineyards.

What should I try?

Pure’s four vintages, ranging from 2013 to 2016, giving one the chance to taste the wine’s flavor development through the years. Visits available upon request.

Canava Roussos

Why should I go?

To see the oldest canava on the island, a winery whose traditions and appearance have been preserved by each of the five generations of family that have run it. A tour here is tantamount to traveling through time!

What should I try?

The aged Nychteri and the Mavrathiro.

Santo Wines

Why should I go?

To enjoy traditional dishes, to indulge in wine tasting while gazing at the caldera, and to pick up some local products, conveniently packaged, all within an impressive facility dedicated to the island’s unique gastronomic heritage.

What should I try?

The PDO Santorini, the sparkling wines and their new label IRINI, from 100% Assyrtiko, aged in Vinsanto barrels, as well as the local cooperative’s top delicacy – Santorini cherry tomato paste with honey and mastic.

Domaine Sigalas

Why should I go?

To meet Paris Sigalas, one of the most innovative Greek winemakers, who continues to experiment with Santorini varieties. In addition, to dine in the winery’s wonderful restaurant, which features scrumptious local products prepared with creative flair.

What should I try?

The Kavalieros, the Nychteri made from the Aidani variety and the famous Mavrotragano.

Vassaltis Vineyards

Why should I go?

To get a feel for what the new wave of island winemakers is up to, at a modern winery built in harmony with its natural surroundings.

What should I try?

The PDO Santorini, the Nassitis and the new premium labels Plethora and Gramina in unexpected pairings with ceviche, tiraditos or tartare of Greek fish.

Venetsanos Winery

Why should I go?

To get a closer look at the first winery to export Santorinian wine, considered a milestone in the island’s winemaking history. Its location, on the less photographed side of the island, is also exceptional.

What should I try?

The Nychteri, the Mandilaria and the Anagallis rosé.