Athens: Greek Wines Tasting with Sommelier and Acropolis Views

Getting a taste of Greece’s wine scene is about more than just retsina these days. This tour offers an elegant, intimate introduction to the country’s modern winemaking, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Acropolis. Led by a highly knowledgeable sommelier, you’ll explore rare Greek wines, learn about regional grapes, and pair your sips with traditional Greek bites—all in about an hour and a half.

What really sets this experience apart is the combination of spectacular views—you’ll be sipping wine with the Parthenon in sight—and the chance to sample unusual, high-quality wines from local wineries. It’s a perfect way for wine lovers and culture seekers alike to deepen their appreciation for Greece’s rich viticultural heritage in a relaxed, beautiful setting.

That said, the experience is quite focused on tasting and learning rather than a full meal, so if you’re after a hearty dinner, you’ll need to plan separately. The tour is best suited for those looking for a cultured, scenic, and educational activity that offers excellent value and personalized attention—especially since many reviews highlight the private, personable nature of the experience.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Enjoy stunning sunset and cityscape vistas of the Acropolis while tasting.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a highly knowledgeable sommelier, George Spyrou, who makes the experience engaging and informative.
• Rare Wines: Sample unique Greek grapes like Roditis, Limnio, Kidonitsa, Muscat, and Mandilaras, often unavailable elsewhere.
• Local Pairings: Experience Greek tapas and cheese, enhancing the wine tasting with authentic flavors.
• Intimate Setting: Usually private or small groups, offering a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Great Value: For around $67, you’ll get a generous tasting of multiple wines and snacks, often compared favorably for the quality and quantity.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Location and Atmosphere

The tour begins at the Hill Athens Rooftop Restaurant, a stylish space with panoramic views that create an immediate sense of occasion. From the moment you arrive, the blend of elegant décor and sweeping vistas of the Acropolis makes the experience both special and memorable. Many reviews mention how the sunset over the Parthenon adds an almost magical touch, turning a simple wine tasting into a romantic and cultural highlight.

The Guide and the Introduction

George Spyrou, the lead sommelier, greets you warmly and shares a brief overview of Greece’s wine map. He explains the major regions and grape varieties, setting a solid foundation for the tasting. Reviewers consistently praise George’s knowledge and approachable style—one even mentions how he could answer any question about the wines, making the session both educational and fun.

The Tasting Itinerary

Once the intro is complete, the real tasting begins. Dimitris, the assistant sommelier, introduces carefully selected Greek wines from local producers. You’ll sample a variety of rare and unusual grapes such as Roditis, Limnio, Kidonitsa, Muscat, Augoustiatis, and Mandilaras. These are often varieties that most casual wine drinkers wouldn’t encounter in a typical shop, making the experience both educational and eye-opening.

The wines are served with small Greek tapas, which include cheese and other local bites. Several reviews highlight that the pairings are thoughtfully chosen, enhancing both the wines and the flavors of Greece. One guest noted that the cheese and bread perfectly complemented the wines and added to the overall enjoyment.

The Views and Ambience

The setting’s real star is the view of the Acropolis, especially at sunset. Guests frequently describe the experience as “magical,” with the lights illuminating the Parthenon as dusk falls. This makes it an ideal activity for a romantic date or a special evening in Athens.

The Value and Durability

The experience is priced at $66.84 per person, which many reviewers consider excellent value for a high-quality wine tasting with expert guidance and stunning scenery. The fact that it’s a private tour or small group enhances the feeling of exclusivity and allows for more personalized attention.

Practical Considerations

• The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a perfect length for an early evening activity.
• It starts at 6:00 pm, ideal for catching the sunset.
• It’s accessible near public transportation, simplifying logistics.
• Please note, dinner is not included, so plan to dine afterward if you’re hungry.
• The booking is flexible with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviewers rave about George’s knowledge, friendliness, and engaging style. One said, “George was very kind, knowledgeable, and able to answer any questions about the wine; he created a fun environment to meet others and taste great wine.” Others appreciated the generous pours—some mentioned tasting over 6, 8, or even 9 wines, so you’re likely to leave feeling pleasantly tipsy but still in control.

Several reviews emphasize the scenic setting and the overall ambiance, with comments like “Watching the sun set over the Acropolis and the lights illuminate it while tasting wines was magical.” The quality of wines and thoughtful pairings receive high praise, reinforcing that this isn’t just a touristy activity but a genuine, curated experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting to explore Greece’s emerging wine scene beyond the familiar retsina. It’s equally suited for couples seeking a romantic evening or small groups looking for a private, relaxed activity with an educational twist. If you’re interested in learning about regional grapes and tasting rare varieties in a beautiful setting, this tour will very likely hit the mark.

However, it’s important to remember that dinner is not included, so if you’re hungry or want a full meal, you’ll need to plan accordingly afterward. Also, the timing around sunset means you’ll want to dress appropriately for the weather and possibly bring layers if it gets cooler in the evening.

Final Thoughts

This Greek wine tasting with a top sommelier offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, insider knowledge, and authentic flavors at a reasonable price. The personalized approach and stunning views make it stand out from more conventional tours. It’s a great way to spend an evening in Athens—combining culture, cuisine, and conversation over glasses of some of Greece’s finest, most unusual wines.

For travelers seeking a relaxed, educational, and picturesque experience that goes beyond the typical sightseeing, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially ideal for small groups or couples wanting an intimate, memorable introduction to Greek wines with a side of history and cityscape.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is a private activity, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized and relaxed experience.

How long does the tasting last?
The experience lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect early evening activity.

What is included in the price?
You’ll enjoy wine tasting, Greek tapas, and guidance from a knowledgeable sommelier. No dinner is included, so plan to eat afterward.

Are the wines local and rare?
Yes, the selected wines come from handpicked local Greek wineries, featuring some uncommon varieties like Roditis, Limnio, and Mandilaras.

Is the view of the Acropolis guaranteed?
Most reviews mention excellent views, especially at sunset. The setting in a rooftop restaurant ensures you’ll have a good vantage point.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience, receiving a full refund.

Is this activity suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Since it involves wine tasting, it’s best suited for adults. Non-drinkers can still enjoy the setting and learn about Greek wines.

Do I need prior wine knowledge?
Not at all. The guide explains everything from the basics to regional details, making it accessible for all levels.

In essence, this tour combines the best of Athens’s scenic vistas, Greek wine culture, and personal expertise—perfect for those wanting to add a touch of elegance and education to their Greek adventure.