Santorini (wine)

Asirtiko Athiri from Santorini

Santorini red beach

Bush training of unstaked Greek grape vines

Santorini-South local-viticulture Aegean-Sea Greece

Akrotiri Grapes on Rooftop- Santorini

Santorini wines

Santorini is a renowned wine-producing island located in the southern Aegean Sea, part of Greece. The island is famous for its unique and ancient vineyard practices, as well as for the production of distinctive white wines, primarily from the Assyrtiko grape variety. Santorini wines are celebrated for their minerality, high acidity, and complex flavor profiles, characteristics shaped by the island's volcanic soil and dry climate.

History

The history of winemaking on Santorini dates back to ancient times, with evidence suggesting that vine cultivation and wine production have been continuous activities on the island for thousands of years. The island's winemaking tradition has survived various challenges over the centuries, including volcanic eruptions, such as the catastrophic Minoan eruption around 1600 BCE, and phylloxera outbreaks that devastated vineyards across Europe in the 19th century. Remarkably, Santorini's vineyards were spared from phylloxera, largely due to the island's volcanic ash soil, which is inhospitable to the pest.

Viticulture

Viticulture on Santorini is characterized by its unique training system known as "kouloura," where the vines are woven into continuous, basket-shaped forms. This technique protects the grapes from the harsh winds and intense sun of the Aegean, while also helping to conserve moisture. The island's arid climate, coupled with its porous volcanic soil, forces the vines to dig deep into the earth to find water, contributing to the concentrated flavors found in Santorini wines.

Wine Varieties

While Assyrtiko is the most prominent grape variety used in Santorini wines, other varieties such as Aidani and Athiri are also cultivated. Assyrtiko, in particular, is highly regarded for its ability to maintain high levels of acidity even in the hot Mediterranean climate, making it the backbone of Santorini's dry white wines. The island also produces a small quantity of red wines, primarily from the Mandilaria grape.

Wine Styles

Santorini is best known for its dry white wines, which are often described as having citrus and mineral notes, with a distinct salinity that reflects the island's volcanic terroir. The island is also famous for its sweet dessert wines, particularly Vinsanto, made from sun-dried grapes that concentrate the sugars and flavors, resulting in a rich, amber-colored wine with notes of honey, dried fruits, and spices.

Appellation

Santorini wine is protected under the PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status, ensuring that only wines produced on the island from specific grape varieties can be labeled as Santorini wines. This designation helps to preserve the quality and authenticity of the wines produced in this unique terroir.

Modern Winemaking

Today, Santorini's wine industry combines traditional practices with modern winemaking techniques. The island is home to a number of wineries that are open to visitors, offering wine tastings and tours that provide insight into the ancient and modern aspects of Santorini winemaking. The continued popularity and acclaim of Santorini wines are a testament to the island's enduring viticultural heritage and its adaptability to the challenges of modern winemaking.