Santorini Private Wine Tasting Tour: Up to 4 Wineries & Lunch

Travelers looking to combine authentic Greek wine experiences with stunning island scenery will find this Santorini Private Wine Tasting Tour a perfect fit. With visits to four traditional wineries, tasting 9-18 wines, and a delectable local lunch, it promises a comprehensive and personalized day on this iconic island. The reviews reveal guides who are knowledgeable and passionate, making for a memorable tasting journey.

One of the key attractions? The tour’s focus on local wines and traditional production methods means you’ll walk away with a genuine understanding of Santorini’s unique viticulture. However, it is a fairly long day (about 5 hours), so if you’re not used to a full schedule or prefer a very relaxed pace, it’s worth considering.

This experience is well-suited for wine lovers, curious travelers eager to learn about Greek winemaking, or anyone wanting to enjoy a carefully curated, private day that combines scenery, good food, and excellent wine. If you’re after a deep dive into Santorini’s wine scene with expert guidance, this tour checks a lot of boxes.

Key Points

• Expert local guides deliver personalized insights into Santorini’s winemaking traditions.
• The itinerary covers four wineries, each offering distinct wines and stories.
• Included lunch is a highlight — a generous, well-curated “meze” style meal paired with wines.
• The tour offers stunning views of the Caldera and volcanic vineyards.
• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day.
• The tour is highly rated (5.0/5 from 14 reviews), with visitors praising the knowledgeable guides and delicious wines.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Private Wine Tasting Experience

Why Choose This Tour?

What makes this wine tour stand out is its comprehensive approach. Not only do you get to taste a wide range of wines, but you also gain a deeper understanding of how Santorini’s volcanic soils and climate influence its wines. Plus, it’s a private experience, meaning your group gets personalized attention and flexibility.

From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel or Airbnb, the journey feels seamless. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and the small group size (or private setup) ensures a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. This isn’t just about ticking off wineries; it’s about getting to know the stories behind each glass, all from local guides who are passionate and well-informed.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Stop 1: Estate Argyros

The day begins at Estate Argyros, renowned for producing 4 different styles of wine, including an impressive 20-year-old Vinsanto. Reviewer insights reveal that this stop offers not only tastings but also a behind-the-scenes look at the wine-making process, from vineyard to bottle. Guests love the opportunity to sample the Vinsanto, which is often considered a highlight due to its age and complexity.

A cheese and cold cuts platter accompanies the wine, adding a savory contrast. The guide will walk you through the production area, giving a glimpse of how traditional Greek wines are crafted. Expect about 1 hour 15 minutes here, making it a leisurely start to your day.

Stop 2: Gavalas Winery

Next, Gavalas Winery offers a trip through three generations of winemaking history. Visitors frequently mention the guide’s storytelling skills—especially how they share Gavalas’s long-standing tradition of barrel-making. Expect to taste four different wines, including the iconic Assyrtiko and the sweet Vinsanto again, but with a fresh perspective.

Pairings include a Greek cheese platter, which helps to highlight the flavors. Reviewers note that this stop is a great chance to understand the evolution of Greek wine styles and how family traditions shape the product.

Stop 3: Venetsanos Winery

This is often considered the tour’s centerpiece, partly because of its breathtaking view of the Caldera. You’ll explore the vineyard and learn about the unique viticulture of Santorini, including pruning techniques suited to volcanic soils. The guide shares stories about the winery’s history and innovative winemaking methods.

The wine tasting here is more extensive — five styles, with a focus on Assyrtiko. The lunch served here is described as “tapasa-style,” featuring local specialties like Santorinian Salad, tomato fritters, and Fava, all paired perfectly with the wines. Reviewers mention the delicious food and stunning vistas as highlights.

Stop 4: Gaia Winery

Your final stop is at Gaia Winery, located right by the sea. You’ll relax with four glasses of wine, including some reds from Nemea in Greece. The setting, with sea views, adds a relaxing note to the conclusion of your tasting day. Guests comment on the friendly atmosphere and the chance to savor wines in a peaceful, scenic environment.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

The tour’s price ($295.51 per person) might seem steep at first glance, but considering the all-inclusive nature — four winery visits, tastings, lunch, snacks, bottled water, private transportation, and a guide — it offers solid value for a curated experience. The inclusion of up to 18 wines means you’ll get a thorough sampling, more than enough to satisfy even seasoned wine lovers.

The lunch is another standout feature, with thoughtfully curated local cheese, cold cuts, and Greek delicacies, all paired meticulously with the wines. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and authenticity of the food, noting how it enhances the tasting experience.

The Guides and Their Role

Multiple reviews highlight Stratos, the guide, as a major asset. Guests appreciate his knowledge, enthusiasm, and friendly approach. His background, having worked with wineries himself, allows him to provide insights you won’t find in a guidebook. Many reviewers mention how much they learned about Santorini’s viticulture, history, and local culture.

Logistics and Practicalities

The duration of around 5 hours makes it a full but manageable day, packed with activities without feeling rushed. The tour is private or small-group, which helps maintain a relaxed vibe and gives you flexibility.

Pickup and drop-off are included, adding convenience — especially if you’re staying in a hotel or Airbnb away from the main wineries. The tour runs most days and is booked an average of 34 days in advance, which indicates good planning and popularity.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, those interested in Greek culture and traditions, and travelers who appreciate scenic vistas and authentic experiences. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting an exclusive, personalized day that combines education, tasting, and sightseeing.

However, if you’re on a very tight schedule or looking for a casual, less structured activity, this might feel a bit long. Also, the price might be a consideration for budget travelers, but most reviews suggest it’s a fair value considering the inclusions.

This Santorini Private Wine Tasting Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances delicious wines, local culture, and breathtaking views. The opportunity to explore up to four wineries with a knowledgeable guide ensures you’ll learn and taste in a relaxed, intimate setting. The inclusion of a hearty, well-paired lunch elevates the experience beyond simple tastings.

Perfect for lovers of wine, curious travellers, or those wanting to enjoy a luxurious, all-inclusive day on Santorini, this tour delivers both value and authenticity. The highly positive reviews from previous guests highlight the professionalism and passion of the guides, especially Stratos, making it clear that this is a top-tier way to experience the island’s wine scene.

If you’re ready for a fun, immersive, and delicious day that showcases Santorini’s best wines and scenery, this tour should be at the top of your list.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, allowing ample time to visit four wineries, enjoy tastings, and have lunch without feeling rushed.

Is pickup included?
Yes, hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

What is the price per person?
The tour is priced at about $295.51 per person, which includes tastings at four wineries, lunch, snacks, bottled water, and private transportation.

How many wines are tasted during the tour?
Guests sample between 9 and 18 wines across the four wineries, offering plenty of variety and insight into local styles.

What kind of lunch is included?
A generous, set-menu lunch featuring local Greek snacks such as Santorinian salad, tomato fritters, Fava, cheese, and cold cuts, served with wine pairings.

Are the wineries included in the price?
Yes, all four wineries are part of the tour, and admission is included.

Is this tour suitable for non-wine drinkers?
While primarily focused on wine, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic views, the food, and the cultural insights provided by the guides.

How far in advance should I book?
Most guests book around 34 days ahead, reflecting its popularity and limited spots for a personalized experience.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a private or small-group tour, so you might be able to discuss specific preferences with the guide when booking or on the day.

This detailed, well-balanced tour review highlights everything you need to know to decide if this Santorini wine adventure is the right fit for you. With expert guides, stunning scenery, and a delicious focus on local wines, it promises a memorable and authentic slice of Santorini life.