Wines of Rhodes: Traditional Wine Tasting in the vineyards

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Rhodes’ wine culture, the “Wines of Rhodes” tour offers a charming and educational experience. Set in a picturesque estate close to the Valley of Butterflies and Epano Kalamonas, this wine-tasting adventure combines a guided walk through vineyards, insights from a certified sommelier, and a chance to sample some of the region’s best produce—including local wines, olive oil, and souma, a traditional spirit. Expect to spend around two hours immersed in Greece’s wine-making traditions, all while enjoying a relaxed, small-group atmosphere.

One of the things we love about this tour is the personal touch. You’re guided by a knowledgeable sommelier who makes tasting both fun and informative, and the visit to the estate’s own professional distillery adds a unique flavor to the experience. However, since hotel transfers aren’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation there. This tour suits those genuinely interested in learning about Greek winemaking or exploring Rhodes beyond its beaches, especially wine enthusiasts eager for a behind-the-scenes look.

• Authentic Vineyard Experience: Guided tour of Rhodes’ only legal professional distillery and estate vineyards.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a certified sommelier who teaches proper tasting techniques.
• Variety of Tastes: Sample four different wines, plus local spirits and olive oil.
• Educational Insight: Learn about Greek wine history and the step-by-step winemaking process directly from the winemaker.
• Flexible & Convenient: Available for booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
• Limited Impressions: Small group setting means personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

An Authentic Greek Wine Journey

This tour is well-designed for travelers who want more than just sipping wine—they’re curious about how it’s made, where it comes from, and the cultural context behind it. Starting with a warm welcome at the estate, your guide—often a knowledgeable sommelier from RHODESISLANDER—shares the story of Greek wine, setting the stage for a memorable experience.

The highlight for many is the guided walk through the vineyards. Walking alongside the winemaker himself, you’ll learn about each stage of the process, from grape harvesting to fermentation. It’s a chance to see the vines up close and ask questions about regional varieties or farming methods. Since the estate is near the Valley of Butterflies, the scenery is lush and green, adding a visual treat to the educational content.

Visiting the Distillery and Production Areas

The tour takes you inside the estate’s building in the middle of the vineyards, where the only legal professional distillery of souma in the Dodecanese is located. Souma, a traditional distilled spirit, is an integral part of local festivities and culture. Watching the distillation process or tasting the freshly produced spirit adds an intriguing element to the experience, especially for those unfamiliar with Greek spirits.

Next, you’ll visit the winery itself, where the winemaking practices take place. Seeing the equipment and understanding the process from harvest to bottling helps demystify Greek wines, making the tasting all the more meaningful. It’s not just about sipping; it’s about understanding and appreciating the craft behind each glass.

The Tasting Experience

Once in the tasting room, your sommelier guides you through the nuances of each wine, explaining the proper way to taste and evaluate them. The four wines produced on the estate showcase a variety of styles, offering a well-rounded introduction to local flavors. The inclusion of olive oil and souma tasting rounds out the sensory experience, giving you a broader appreciation of Rhodian produce.

Reviews highlight how educational and fun the tasting is. One guest, Esther, mentioned it was both enjoyable and informative, noting she bought bottles of wine at the end. The small group size ensures plenty of time for questions and personalized recommendations, making the experience both intimate and enriching.

Practical Details

The tour lasts about two hours, making it a manageable add-on to your day without feeling rushed. Prices cover the vineyard tour, guide, and tastings—five in total, including the local spirits. However, note that hotel transfers are not included, so plan your transport accordingly—whether by rental car, taxi, or local bus.

The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for travelers from various backgrounds. It’s important to mention that the experience is not suitable for pregnant women or children under 18, as it involves spirits and tasting.

Value and Overall Impression

Considering the personalized attention, authentic setting, and educational content, the value for the price stands out. You’re paying for more than just tastings—you’re gaining insight into Rhodes’ winemaking traditions, plus the chance to sample some truly local products. This tour is ideal for wine lovers, cultural explorers, or anyone wanting a deeper connection to the island’s heritage beyond the usual tourist spots.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits those who enjoy learning about local produce and craftsmanship, rather than just sampling wines. If you want a behind-the-scenes look at Greek winemaking, combined with a scenic vineyard walk and spirits tasting, this tour hits the spot. It’s also perfect for small groups or couples seeking an intimate, educational outing.

The “Wines of Rhodes” tour offers a wonderfully authentic glimpse into Greek viticulture. It combines scenic vineyard strolls, expert-guided tastings, and a chance to see traditional spirits being distilled right in front of you. While it doesn’t include transportation, the experience makes up for it with its personal touch, educational value, and genuine atmosphere.

If you’re interested in learning about Greek wine, tasting local products, and discovering Rhodes’ rich traditions, this tour provides excellent value. It’s especially well-suited for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, or those wanting a meaningful cultural experience in a beautiful setting.

For travelers with a keen interest in genuine, hands-on experiences that go beyond the typical sightseeing, this tour offers a memorable, insightful day in Rhodes’ countryside.

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to the estate.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, providing a relaxed yet rundown of the vineyard and winemaking process.

Who leads the tour?
It is led by a certified sommelier, who guides you through tasting techniques, shares knowledge about Greek wines, and explains the production process.

What will I taste during the tour?
You will sample four different wines produced on the estate, as well as local olive oil and souma, a traditional spirit.

Is this experience suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women due to spirits tasting.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the tour bilingual or conducted in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

What makes this tour special?
Its combination of vineyard walk, spirits distillery, and guided tastings provides a well-rounded, authentic Greek wine experience in a scenic setting.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this wine tour fits your travel style. Whether you’re passionate about wine or simply curious to learn more about Rhodes’ local produce, this experience offers meaningful insights wrapped in a beautiful environment.