Santorini: Wine tasting in 3 Wineries and a Greek Meal group

Exploring Santorini’s Wine Scene: A Deep Dive into the 3 Wineries and Greek Feast Tour

This Santorini wine tasting tour offers a well-rounded experience combining visits to three distinct wineries, expert-guided tastings, and an authentic Greek meal. Priced at $169 per person and lasting around 5 hours, it’s designed to give travelers a taste of the island’s famous indigenous wines while soaking in breathtaking scenery and savoring top-quality local cuisine.

One thing we genuinely appreciate about this experience is the careful balance between wine education and relaxed enjoyment. From learning about the history of Santorini’s vineyards to sampling a variety of wines, the tour manages to feel both informative and fun. Plus, the inclusion of a 5-course meal, crafted by a top local chef, elevates the experience into a true culinary delight.

A possible consideration is the seasonality of the meal—available from April to October—and the fact that in other months, the third winery is replaced with a restaurant. So, if you’re visiting outside these months, you’ll want to check what alternative culinary experience is included.

This tour is best suited for curious wine lovers, foodies, or travelers eager to understand Santorini’s unique viticulture in an engaging, small-group setting. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive taste of the island’s wine culture without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines visits to three wineries, blending traditional and modern styles.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides teach you about Santorini wines and their history.
• Tasting Variety: Multiple tastings featuring indigenous varietals like Assyrtiko, Aidani, Nychteri, plus dessert wines.
• Culinary Pairings: Enjoy a 5-course Greek meal, focusing on fresh, local ingredients.
• Seasonal Flexibility: The third winery may be replaced by a restaurant outside mid-April to October.
• Value for Money: Includes all tasting fees, transportation, and food, making it an accessible way to explore Santorini wine.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour begins with hotel pickups from six convenient locations, including Perissa Beach, Oia, Vothonas, Akrotiri, Imerovigli, and Thera. This makes it easy to join regardless of where you stay, with pickups generally scheduled in the morning or early afternoon—be sure to check availability for your preferred time slot.

Once onboard, the journey kicks off with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and a friendly, informative driver. The experience is designed to feel relaxed rather than rushed, with ample time at each location to soak in the scenery and ask questions.

First Winery: Traditional Flavors and Local Delights

The first stop is a boutique winery where you’ll sample four distinct wines: Assyrtiko, Aidani, Nychteri, and a dessert wine like Mezzo or Vinsanta. These wines showcase Santorini’s unique grape varieties—Assyrtiko, in particular, is famous for its minerality and crispness, often compared to high-quality Chablis.

Accompanying the tastings are Greek goat cheese and rusks, which provide the perfect palate cleanser and complements to the wines. This initial tasting sets the tone, emphasizing the connection between local ingredients and the wines produced here.

Many reviews mention the guide’s enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, with one noting, “The guide made us feel like we were visiting old friends, explaining everything with passion and clarity.” This personal touch makes the experience feel intimate, even if the group isn’t tiny.

Second Winery: Vineyards and Production Insights

The second stop offers a short tour of the estate’s vineyards and production area. Here, you gain insight into what makes Santorini’s grapes special—such as their resilience to the island’s volcanic soils and intense sun exposure.

The guide provides a brief presentation on what sets Santorini vineyards apart, helping visitors understand the nuances behind each sip. Tastings here include 3-4 wines, alongside an assortment of local snacks, adding variety to your tasting adventure.

This part of the tour is especially appreciated for the expert guidance provided by the sommelier, who explains the wine-making process and answers questions, making the tasting more engaging and educational.

Third Winery or Restaurant: The Final Stop and Meal

The last visit is typically a winery, where you’ll taste another four wines, each paired with carefully selected dishes. The food is a multi-course Greek degustation menu, emphasizing fresh, local produce and modern presentation techniques, designed by a top chef.

This meal is a highlight for many, transforming the wine tasting into a true feast. Guests often comment on the deliciousness of the dishes and the harmony with the wines—a key factor in elevating the overall experience.

Sunset Option and Additional Highlights

In the summer months, the tour often concludes with a stop at the caldera to watch the sunset, offering a stunning backdrop to reflect on the day. This optional ending adds a romantic and memorable touch to the experience, making it ideal for honeymooners or couples.

Practical Aspects and Value

All entrance fees, taxes, and wine tasting fees are included in the price, removing any hidden costs. The tour duration is approximately 5 hours, allowing plenty of time to relax and enjoy without feeling rushed.

The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the English-speaking guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers with changing plans.

Why Choose This Tour?

This experience is particularly valuable for travellers who want a rundown of Santorini’s wines, combined with a taste of the local cuisine. The fact that it covers three wineries means you’ll walk away with a broader appreciation not only of the wines but also of the different styles and production methods across the island.

The inclusion of expert-guided tastings means you’ll learn about each wine’s characteristics, history, and pairing possibilities, making it more than a casual sip. Plus, the delicious multi-course meal ensures you leave satisfied, with a full belly and new wine knowledge in hand.

If you are short on time but eager to experience the essence of Santorini’s wine culture, this tour offers both variety and depth, all in one accessible package.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Santorini’s indigenous varieties in a relaxed, guided setting. Food lovers will also enjoy the carefully curated Greek meal, which complements the tasting experience beautifully.

It’s an excellent choice whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group of friends. The fact that transportation, tastings, and the meal are all included makes it a good-value option, especially considering the quality of guides and the intimate nature of the experience.

Travelers seeking a blend of education, authentic local flavors, and scenic beauty will find this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from six convenient locations around Santorini, including Perissa Beach, Oia, and Thera.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, with flexibility depending on the day and season.

What wines will I taste?
You will sample Santorini’s indigenous wines, including Assyrtiko, Aidani, Nychteri, and a dessert wine such as Mezzo or Vinsanta.

Does the meal include wine pairings?
Yes, the 5-course Greek degustation is carefully paired with wines from the third winery, enhancing both the dishes and the tasting experience.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
The information provided doesn’t specify dietary options, so it’s best to contact the operator beforehand for any special requests.

What seasons is the meal available?
The meal is available from mid-April to the end of October. Outside this period, the third stop is replaced by a restaurant.

Are tasting fees included?
All wine tasting fees are included in the price, along with entrance fees and taxes.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a limit to group size?
While the exact size isn’t specified, the tour is designed to feel intimate, likely in small groups for personalized guidance.

Do I need to know anything else to enjoy the tour?
Just bring your curiosity and an appetite for good wine and delicious food. A sense of humor and willingness to learn will make it even better.

In summary, this Santorini wine tasting tour offers a well-crafted journey through the island’s vinicultural gems, topped with a tasty Greek meal and scenic sunset moments. It’s especially suited for those who want more than just a quick tasting—a true immersion into Santorini’s wine and culinary culture. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a curious traveler, this experience combines education, flavor, and stunning views into one memorable outing.