Santorini: History & Wine Trails Tour

Santorini’s captivating past and winemaking prowess come together in this enthralling tour. Visitors can explore the remarkably preserved ruins of the ancient Minoan settlement at Akrotiri, unlocking the island’s rich history. From there, the tour delves into Santorini’s millennia-old viticulture, showcasing the unique volcanic terroir and traditional cultivation methods that produce its acclaimed wines. With stops at renowned estates like Hatzidakis and Santo Wines, travelers savor award-winning vintages that capture the island’s enduring winemaking legacy. But the journey doesn’t end there – there’s still more to uncover about Santorini’s legendary lost city and its innovative approach to viticulture.

Key Points

• Explore the remarkably well-preserved Minoan settlement of Akrotiri, providing a captivating glimpse into Santorini’s distant prehistoric past.
• Discover Santorini’s millennia-old winemaking traditions, with evidence of viticulture dating back to the 3rd millennium BC.
• Embark on guided tastings at renowned Santorini wineries like Hatzidakis, Santo Wines, and ANHYDROUS to savor the region’s celebrated varietals.
• Uncover the enduring mystery surrounding the legendary Lost City of Atlantis, which is believed to have been located on Santorini.
• Gain insights into Santorini’s unique viticulture practices, such as the distinctive basket-shaped ‘kouloura’ vines, which contribute to the island’s acclaimed wines.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Akrotiri Prehistoric Excavations

The Akrotiri prehistoric excavations unveil a captivating glimpse into Santorini’s distant past, offering visitors a chance to explore the remarkably well-preserved remains of this ancient Minoan settlement that thrived during the 3rd millennium BC.

Uncovered in the 1960s, the site reveals a sophisticated urban center with intricate multi-story buildings, sophisticated drainage systems, and vibrant frescoes that showcase the Minoans’ advanced artistic and technological prowess.

Roaming the excavated streets and structures, one can almost imagine the daily lives of Akrotiri’s former residents, who lived in this prosperous port town until it was blanketed in volcanic ash during a catastrophic eruption around 1600 BC.

The excavations provide a window into a long-lost civilization and offer a tantalizing glimpse into Santorini’s captivating history.

Santorini’s Winemaking Traditions

Santorini’s winemaking traditions date back thousands of years, with evidence of viticulture on the island dating to the 3rd millennium BC.

The unique volcanic soil and climate of Santorini have long been prized for cultivating exceptional grape varieties, producing distinctive wines that have captivated oenophiles worldwide.

Today, the island’s wineries continue to honor these ancient traditions, crafting award-winning whites, reds, and the iconic Vinsanto dessert wine.

Visitors can explore the region’s viticultural heritage by visiting local producers, learning about traditional basket-weaving vine cultivation, and sampling the rich, full-bodied flavors that have made Santorini wines a global phenomenon.

From the island’s prehistoric origins to its modern-day acclaim, Santorini’s winemaking legacy is a testament to the enduring spirit of this unique Greek destination.

Hatzidakis Winery Tasting

After exploring Santorini’s rich winemaking traditions, the tour visits Hatzidakis Winery, one of the island’s premier producers known for crafting exceptional Assyrtiko and Vinsanto wines.

Guests embark on a guided tasting that showcases the winery’s award-winning portfolio, highlighting the unique terroir and meticulous techniques that define Santorini’s singular viticulture.

The tasting includes:

1. Sampling Hatzidakis’ renowned dry Assyrtiko, a wine that captures the essence of Santorini’s volcanic soils and coastal climate.

2. Experiencing the complex, honey-hued Vinsanto, a traditional sweet wine made from sun-dried Assyrtiko and Aidani grapes.

3. Discovering cutting-edge varietal blends that showcase the winery’s innovative spirit and commitment to quality.

Throughout the experience, guests gain deep insights into Santorini’s millennia-old winemaking heritage and its modern-day manifestation at this esteemed estate.

Santo Wines Winery Tasting

Next, the tour visits the renowned Santo Wines Winery, where guests have the opportunity to delve deeper into Santorini’s captivating winemaking legacy.

At this revered estate, they’ll savor a carefully curated selection of the region’s most celebrated varietals, each meticulously crafted to capture the essence of the island’s singular terroir.

Led by knowledgeable sommeliers, the tasting showcases the remarkable diversity of Santorini’s indigenous grapes, including the acclaimed Assyrtiko, renowned for its crisp acidity and mineral notes.

Visitors will also have the chance to sample the iconic Vinsanto, a luscious dessert wine that has been a hallmark of the island’s viticulture for centuries.

Through this immersive experience, guests gain a profound appreciation for Santorini’s rich wine culture and its timeless traditions.

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ANHYDROUS Cellar Door Tasting

The final stop on the tour is the ANHYDROUS Cellar Door, where visitors are immersed in the innovative winemaking approaches that have earned Santorini global acclaim.

Here, they’ll sample a range of cutting-edge vintages that push the boundaries of traditional viticulture, showcasing the island’s remarkable potential for experimentation and evolution.

The ANHYDROUS tasting highlights three key features of their wines:

1. Unique grape varieties like Assyrtiko, Aidani, and Athiri that thrive in Santorini’s volcanic terroir.
2. Minimal intervention techniques that preserve the distinctive character of each vintage.
3. Pioneering use of amphora vessels and other unconventional aging methods.

Through this tasting, guests gain a deeper appreciation for Santorini’s dynamic, forward-thinking wine culture.

Santorini’s Legendary Lost City

Santorini’s captivating history is inextricably linked to the legend of the Lost City of Atlantis, a mythical island civilization that has captured the imagination of scholars and enthusiasts for centuries.

According to the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, Atlantis was a powerful and prosperous island-state that sank into the sea around 9600 BC.

The connection between Santorini and the Lost City of Atlantis has long been a topic of debate, as the volcanic island’s dramatic landscape and rich archaeological discoveries have led some to believe it may have been the inspiration for the legendary island.

During the tour, your guide will explore the enduring mysteries and theories surrounding Atlantis, providing insight into this captivating aspect of Santorini’s storied past.

Unique Santorini Viticulture Practices

Beyond the legends of Atlantis, Santorini’s viticulture practices stand out as a remarkable facet of the island’s winemaking heritage. Santorini’s unique basket-shaped vines, known as ‘kouloura,’ thrive in the island’s volcanic soil, allowing them to withstand the region’s harsh, dry climate and capture the essence of the terroir in each grape.

These distinctive vines are:

1. Cultivated in a circular, low-to-the-ground configuration to protect the grapes from the intense sun and wind.
2. Pruned annually to maintain their robust, twisted structure and maximize airflow.
3. Harvested by hand, ensuring gentle handling of the precious clusters.

These age-old techniques, passed down for generations, contribute to Santorini’s celebrated wines, making each sip a testament to the island’s enduring viticultural legacy.

Tour Inclusions and Information

Completing the Santorini history and wine trails tour includes several key features, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided visit to the Akrotiri excavations, wine tastings at three acclaimed wineries, and an antipasti plate showcasing local specialties.

For cruise ship travelers, cable car tickets are provided to ensure a seamless experience.

Throughout the tour, participants can expect to taste a variety of whites and dessert wines while learning about Santorini’s winemaking traditions dating back thousands of years.

The tour also covers the legends of the island, including the captivating tale of the lost city of Atlantis.

With these comprehensive inclusions, visitors are guaranteed an immersive and unforgettable exploration of Santorini’s rich history and renowned viticulture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a maximum group size. It is likely that the group size is flexible and can accommodate a range of party sizes. The tour provider would be able to provide more details on typical group sizes.

Are There Any Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options for the Antipasti Plate?

The tour offers a vegetarian antipasti plate with local cheeses, olives, and other plant-based items. Gluten-free options are also available upon request. Guests with dietary restrictions can be accommodated to ensure an enjoyable experience.

Can I Bring My Own Wine on the Tour?

Guests are generally not permitted to bring their own wine on the tour. The tour includes tastings at three wineries, an antipasti plate, and transportation, so bringing outside wine is not recommended. Participants should enjoy the local wines provided as part of the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there may be an option to extend the tour duration. Travelers can inquire with the tour operator about customizing the length of the tour to meet their specific needs and interests.

Can I Purchase Additional Wine Bottles at the Wineries?

Yes, guests can purchase additional wine bottles at the wineries visited during the tour. The wineries offer a selection of their fine wines that can be purchased and taken home as souvenirs.

Recap

Santorini’s captivating history and renowned winemaking legacy come together in this unforgettable tour.

Uncover the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, then explore the island’s millennia-old viticulture, exploring acclaimed wineries and their award-winning vintages.

From the iconic Assyrtiko to the legendary Vinsanto, this journey showcases Santorini’s enduring winemaking tradition and innovative spirit, offering an immersive glimpse into the heart of this remarkable Greek island.

You can check if your dates are available here: