wines of santorini

There is archeological evidence supporting the cultivation of the vine on Santorini that dates back almost 5000 years. However, it was the eruption of around 1600BC that made the unique wines of Santorini what they are today.

The volcanic soil in which the indigenous varieties of Santorini grow is responsible for the unique character of the wines, with the lack of clay in the soil giving the vines a natural immunity from Phylloxera. However, despite these advantages, the growing conditions of Santorini are made more difficult because of the lack of rain, with an average of only 400mm per year.

Having said this, cool, refreshing winds from the north called, “meltemia” blanket the island during the summer, decreasing the temperature dramatically at night. This helps maintain the already bright acidity that Assyrtiko and the other native varieties inherently possess. 

Join our Head Sommelier, and previously Greece’ Best Sommelier, Terry Kandylis on 22nd August to discover this superb wine-making region.