Santo Wines Winery

Overview

Santo Wines is a cooperative winery perched on the edge of the caldera in Pyrgos, producing wines from Santorini's indigenous Assyrtiko grape variety. With a large terrace overlooking the caldera and a modern tasting room, it has become the island's most visited winery, combining viticulture education with spectacular volcanic scenery.

Highlights

• Caldera terrace tastings: Wine flights served on a panoramic terrace with direct views of the caldera and volcanic islands.
• Assyrtiko wines: The flagship grape of Santorini, producing crisp, mineral-driven white wines unique to the volcanic terroir.
• Vinsanto dessert wine: A legendarily sweet sun-dried grape wine with centuries of tradition.

History

Founded in 1947 as the Union of Santorini Cooperatives, Santo Wines represents over 1,200 local grape growers who cultivate some of the oldest ungrafted vines in Europe. The cooperative plays a crucial role in preserving Santorini's traditional basket-trained vine technique (kouloura), which protects grapes from wind and conserves moisture.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Book a sunset tasting session in advance — the caldera terrace fills up early, especially June through September.
• Tip 2: Try the Nykteri (night-harvested) white alongside the Assyrtiko for a comparison of styles.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.