Experience Santorini: Wine Tasting Small Group Tour

Getting a taste of Santorini’s legendary wines is a highlight for many travelers, and this small-group wine tasting tour offers a fantastic way to do just that. With around four hours of expertly curated visits to three top wineries, plus tastings paired with local snacks, it’s designed for those eager to learn about the island’s viticulture in a relaxed setting. The tour promises personalized attention thanks to its small-group format, and the convenience of hotel pickup makes it even more appealing.

What we love most? The chance to explore a variety of wineries—each with its own story and style—while enjoying stunning views and insider knowledge from guides passionate about Santorini’s wine culture. One potential drawback? The tour’s pace might feel a bit rushed for those wanting more in-depth exploration at each stop. Still, if you’re a fan of wine, scenery, and authentic experiences, this tour is a winner for couples, friends, or anyone curious about Greek wine.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, tasting, and learning without the hassle of planning. It suits those who appreciate small groups for more personalized interaction and are happy to spend an afternoon discovering the island’s vineyards and flavors.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small-group format ensures more direct interaction with guides and other guests.
• Diverse Wineries: Visits include three acclaimed estates, each offering unique wines and vineyard tours.
• Authentic Tasting: Expect 10-12 glasses of local wines paired with olives, cheese, and salami.
• Convenient & Hassle-Free: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, especially for cruise travelers.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Mary, George, and Fotios are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling.
• Stunning Settings: Wineries are located in beautiful countryside, with some offering ocean views and volcanic landscapes.

A Comprehensive Look at the Santorini Wine Tasting Tour

Introduction: A Wine Lover’s Dream Experience

If you’re heading to Santorini and want to go beyond just snapping photos of the famous blue-domed churches, this wine tasting tour offers an excellent way to dive into the island’s viticultural heritage. We’ve seen countless reviews praising the knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking vineyard scenery, and the exceptional wines that reflect Santorini’s volcanic soil. It’s a well-designed experience that balances education, tasting, and scenic exploration.

One thing that truly stands out is the tour’s small-group size—max 10 people—which means you get more personalized attention, deeper insights, and the chance to ask all your burning questions about Greek wines. The round-trip hotel pickup adds a layer of convenience, especially if you’re staying in a hotel or Airbnb outside the main tourist hubs.

However, some travelers note that the experience can feel a little rushed, especially if you love lingering at each winery or want to savor every sip. Still, for most, the value of visiting three wineries, tasting a variety of wines, and enjoying the stunning scenery outweighs this minor downside. It’s most suited for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those looking for a relaxed yet informative half-day activity.

What’s Included and How It Works

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 3:30 pm, making it a perfect late-afternoon activity. You’ll be transported in a comfortable Mercedes-Benz vehicle, with air-conditioning to keep you cool after a warm day. The experience includes pickup and drop-off at all car-accessible locations, eliminating the need to worry about navigating or parking.

During the tour, you’ll visit three wineries: Estate Argyros, Anhydrous Winery, and Artemis Karamolegos. Each offers a different vibe—modern elegance, experimental wines, and traditional charm—giving you a well-rounded taste of Santorini’s wine scene. You’ll enjoy 10-12 tastings, paired with local cheeses, olives, and salami, making the experience both flavorful and filling.

All these details contribute to a sense of ease and immersion. It’s clear that the organizers want you to focus on tasting, learning, and enjoying rather than stressing over logistics or timing.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Estate Argyros

Located near Episkopi-Gonia, about 5.5 km from Fira, Estate Argyros is a contemporary estate with stunning ocean views. Their spacious tasting room offers a relaxed environment to sample their signature wines, primarily Assyrtiko—Santorini’s flagship white grape. Known for their delicious Aydani as well, Argyros’ Mavrotragano received a noteworthy 93/100 from Wine Advocate, reflecting its quality.

Guests rave about the views and modern facilities. One review mentions that the estate’s setting “was stunning, and the wine was equally impressive,” highlighting the visual and taste appeal. Expect around 45 minutes here, with plenty of time to ask questions about the winemaking process or the vineyard’s volcanic soil.

Stop 2: Anhydrous Winery

Founded by Apostolos Mountrikas in 2021, Anhydrous Winery is all about experimenting with traditional techniques to produce pure, expressive wines. The winemaker’s approach is rooted in respecting the land—especially the volcanic, arid terrain of Santorini—and capturing its essence in each bottle.

Travelers have appreciated how each wine reflects the majesty of the island. One reviewer noted, “Wines that reflect Santorini’s personality—vibrant, bold, and pure.” The experience here emphasizes high-quality, experimental wines, with the chance to learn about modern vs. traditional styles.

Stop 3: Artemis Karamolegos Winery

This estate offers a more traditional vibe, with visits to actual vineyards on volcanic soil. Guests stroll through the vineyard, learning about the unique challenges and adaptations of viticulture on volcanic terrain. Tasting a selection of 12 different wine styles, including local Greek varieties, provides a rundown of what Santorini offers.

Complemented by local cheese and olives, this stop was highlighted for its authentic and intimate atmosphere. Reviewers appreciated the chance to “see how volcanic soil influences the wines” and to enjoy “stunning views” while sipping.

The Tasting Experience

Across the three wineries, you’ll sample a total of 10-12 wines—ranging from crisp whites like Assyrtiko to more complex reds and even some dessert wines or liquors. The guide’s insights help you understand each wine’s characteristics, making this more than just a tasting; it’s a mini-lesson in Greek and Santorini-specific wine styles.

Most reviews emphasize the quality of the wine and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. One reviewer particularly praised Muriel’s expertise, describing her as engaging and full of stories that brought the wines to life. The pairing of local cheeses, olives, and salami complements the wines perfectly, making each sip even more enjoyable.

The Value of the Experience

At $185.37 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of hotel pickup, three winery visits, and a substantial tasting spread. Compared to independent visits or doing research on your own, this guided experience saves hours of planning and offers expert insights, enriching your understanding of Santorini’s wine culture.

A common theme in reviews is the tour’s accessibility and friendly atmosphere. Many guests noted how guides like Mary, George, and Fotios created a relaxed, fun environment—whether cracking jokes, sharing local anecdotes, or explaining wine-making techniques.

Transportation & Group Size

Traveling in a private Mercedes-Benz with air-conditioning, the journey is comfortable, and the small-group format ensures you can chat freely with guides and fellow travelers. The maximum group size of 10 keeps things intimate, allowing for questions and personalized attention.

For cruise guests, the meeting point at the cable car exit or Santorini Old Harbor makes logistics straightforward, though some guests mention the experience can be a little rushed if timing is tight. For hotel guests, pickup from most locations is included, adding to the convenience.

Overall Impressions from Reviews

Guests universally praise the guides’ knowledge, with many mentioning guides like Mary, Muriel, George, and Fotios by name. Their stories and explanations elevate the tasting experience from simple sipping to a cultural exploration.

Many reviewers also loved how the wineries differ—from modern setups and ocean views to traditional cellars—providing a well-rounded perspective on Santorini’s wine scene. The quality of wines, combined with the stunning scenery and friendly hosts, makes this tour a highlight for many.

A handful of reviewers expressed slight disappointment about the perceived pacing, feeling that the experience could be longer or less rushed. Still, the consensus is that the quality of wineries, the knowledgeable guides, and the beautiful settings more than make up for this.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, couples, and small groups looking for a relaxed yet informative afternoon. If you love tasting local wines, enjoying scenic vineyards, and learning from passionate guides, this tour ticks all boxes. It’s also suitable for cruise passengers, thanks to its convenient meeting points and included transportation.

However, if you prefer more in-depth winery visits or want to linger longer at each stop, you might find this tour somewhat brisk. Still, given the highly positive reviews, most guests leave feeling like they gained a real appreciation of Santorini’s wine culture.

The Sum Up

This small-group Santorini wine tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic vineyard visits, top-quality tastings, and engaging storytelling. The guides’ expertise shines through, making the experience both educational and fun. With stunning views, authentic wines, and local bites, it’s a superb way to spend an afternoon exploring the island’s viticultural side.

Perfect for those who want a manageable, intimate experience with personal attention and expert guides, this tour packs plenty of value into just four hours. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply want a taste of Greece’s famous wines, you’ll come away with new favorites and a deeper understanding of Santorini’s unique terroir.

FAQs

How many wineries will I visit?
You’ll visit three wineries: Estate Argyros, Anhydrous Winery, and Artemis Karamolegos Winery, each offering a different style and perspective on Santorini wine.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by air-conditioned private vehicle, 10-12 wine tastings, and local snacks like cheese, olives, and salami.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
The tour departs at 3:30 pm, making it a great late-afternoon activity, especially if you want to enjoy sunset views afterward or have free time earlier in the day.

Is the tour suitable for cruise passengers?
Yes. The meeting point details at the cable car exit or Old Harbor are provided, and the tour is designed to fit cruise schedules, though some guests may find it slightly rushed if timing is tight.

How large are the groups?
Groups are small, with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring more personalized interaction and better access to guides.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific details aren’t provided. It’s a good idea to inform the tour operator about any special requirements or age considerations.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sunglasses, and sun protection are recommended, especially since much of the tour involves vineyard strolls and outdoor tasting areas.

In summary, this Santorini wine tasting tour is a thoughtful, well-rated experience that balances scenic vineyard visits, expert insights, and delicious local bites. Ideal for small groups seeking an authentic, relaxed way to learn about Greek wines, it’s a memorable addition to any Santorini itinerary.