A very special island that is unlike any other. Wild beauty, magic land, a dream come true. Where the sun rises and sets differently than in any other part of the world. Just few of the things that have been said about Santorini.
Only a 40-minute flight from the airport Eleftherios Venizelos of Athens or a 6 to 8 hour boat trip from the port of Piraeus. A whole different world awaits for you to join anytime. And, of course, once is not enough. Whoever comes to the island, definitely returns at some point.
One of the most famous tourist destinations in the world, Santorini
belongs to the archipelago of the Cyclades in the South Aegean and was, in fact, created after a huge volcanic eruption that cut in half the pre-existing large island, called Round. Its central part exploded along with the crater of the volcano and created what we now call the Caldera and is one of the natural elements that characterize the whole island.
Apart from its unique, magnificent sunsets, Santorini is well known for its internationally awarded local wines. The vineyard of the island is the most traditional in Greece. Adverse climatic conditions and especially strong winds forced the growers to adopt a unique low pruning shape, like a basket, in order to protect the grapes from both the wind and the summer heat. The area of the vineyard today is 14,000 acres and its yield is about 500 kg / acre.
Another interesting special feature of the island is the cave houses that are found nowhere else. This is a special architectural approach that has houses built inside the rock - or generally underground- as caves and they are found not only in the caldera but also in other parts of the island. Theraic earth has insulating properties so the caves are kept cool in summer and warm in winter. Also, this way of construction allows the creation of a variety of shapes with great plasticity.
Finally, another place worth visiting when you are in Santorini is the archeological site of Akrotiri, one of the most important in the Eastern Mediterranean, as well as the ruins of Ancient Thira and the museums of Ancient and Prehistoric Thira in the island's capital, Fira.
Santorini, the jewel of the Aegean Sea, is renowned not just for its stunning sunsets and white-washed architecture, but increasingly for its exceptional wines. Traditionally overshadowed by celebrated wine regions like Bordeaux, Santorini is now emerging as a serious contender in the global wine scene.
The island's unique terroir, ancient viticulture practices, and dedication to quality have positioned Santorini wines to compete with the likes of Bordeaux.
Unique Terroir and Viticulture
Santorini's volcanic soil, rich in minerals, provides a unique foundation for its vineyards. The island's arid climate and strong winds force the vines to root deeply, imparting a distinct minerality and complexity to the wines. The traditional method of growing vines in basket shapes (kouloura) protects the grapes from harsh winds and intense sun, preserving their delicate flavors.
In contrast, Bordeaux's terroir benefits from a combination of gravel, clay, and limestone soils, along with a temperate maritime climate. While Bordeaux’s terroir contributes to the elegance and structure of its wines, Santorini's volcanic soil imparts a distinct salinity and vibrant acidity, offering a different yet equally compelling flavor profile.
Grape Varieties and Wine Styles
Santorini is best known for its Assyrtiko grape, a white variety that thrives in the island's conditions. Assyrtiko wines are renowned for their crisp acidity, citrus notes, and mineral undertones, often compared to the best Chablis. Vinsanto, a sweet dessert wine from sun-dried grapes, is another standout, offering rich, complex flavors of dried fruits, honey, and spices.
Bordeaux, on the other hand, is famed for its red blends dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, producing wines with deep color, robust tannins, and a balance of fruit and earthiness. White Bordeaux wines, made from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, are celebrated for their elegance and aging potential.
Quality and Global Recognition
In recent years, Santorini wines have gained significant recognition and accolades, with vintners focusing on low yields, meticulous vineyard management, and modern winemaking techniques to enhance quality. The island's wines have found their place on the menus of prestigious restaurants and in the cellars of discerning wine enthusiasts worldwide.
Bordeaux remains a benchmark of excellence in the wine world, with centuries of tradition and a well-established reputation. However, Santorini's innovative approach and unique characteristics offer a refreshing alternative that appeals to those seeking new and exciting wine experiences.
In a few words
While Bordeaux will always hold a revered place in the annals of wine history, Santorini's wines are proving that they can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best. The island's dedication to quality, coupled with its distinctive terroir and grape varieties, ensures that Santorini will continue to carve out its niche in the global wine market.
For wine lovers, this presents an opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse expressions of viticulture that both regions have to offer.
