Small Group Local Wine Tasting Tour In Santorini

Exploring Santorini Through Its Wines: A Closer Look at the Small Group Local Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re thinking about diving into the world of Santorini’s wines, this small-group wine tasting tour offers a relaxed, insightful way to taste the island’s best and understand what makes Santorini wine so special. We’ve seen plenty of tours, but this one stands out because it combines visits to historic wineries, a touch of local art, and spectacular scenery—all within about four hours. It’s a good choice if you want a taste of authentic Santorini wine without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What we really like about this experience? First, the focus on Assyrtiko, the island’s signature grape, grown in volcanic soil, which gives the wines a distinct character. Second, the fact that it’s limited to small groups of up to 15 people—that means a more personalized, friendly vibe and better access to guides who know their stuff. One thing to keep in mind is the price—at around $173 per person, it’s not the cheapest option, but considering the quality of visits, tastings, and the scenery, many will find it good value.

If you’re someone who enjoys good wine, beautiful landscapes, and cultural insights, this tour probably suits you. It’s also a great pick if you like learning about local traditions and history while sipping something delightful. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more informal, self-guided experience, it might feel a bit structured. Though, it’s a solid way to spend part of your day in Santorini.

Key Points

• Focused on volcanic wines, especially Assyrtiko, showcasing the unique terroir of Santorini.
• Includes visits to three different wineries, each offering distinct atmospheres and specialties.
• Small group size (max 15), ensuring a more intimate, engaging experience.
• Excellent views and scenery, especially at Estate Argyros and during the sunset at Art Space Winery.
• Well-rated guides and transportation, making the day comfortable and informative.
• Cost reflects the value, with thoughtful tastings, a Greek meze-style meal, and extras like Wi-Fi.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting around noon, this tour offers a relaxed pace that fits well with a sightseeing day. The pickup and transportation are straightforward—your driver is friendly, accommodating, and offers water, which is much appreciated after a few tastings. Being in a small group means you’re not lost in a crowd, and it’s easier to ask questions and get personalized attention from your guide.

First Stop: Estate Argyros

The journey kicks off at Estate Argyros, located about 5.5 km from Fira, in Episkopi Gonia. You’ll find yourself in a spacious tasting room with incredible views of the ocean—an inspiring backdrop for wine tasting. The estate is the largest on the island and is famous for Assyrtiko, as well as Aidani and a red Mavrotraga.

Here, we loved the way the estate highlights the importance of volcanic soil in shaping their wines’ unique flavors. The guide explained how the Assyrtiko grapes absorb the volcanic minerals, leading to wines that are crisp, mineral-driven, and very characteristic of Santorini. The tasting includes four small glasses, offering a good variety without overwhelming your palate.

Many visitors appreciate the scenic setting, with some quoting how “the views are stunning,” making this stop not just about the wine but also about enjoying the natural beauty of the island. And since the tasting is in an expansive estate with ocean vistas, it feels more like a scenic stop than just a wine tasting.

Second Stop: Artemis Karamolegos Winery

Next, the group heads to Artemis Karamolegos Winery, which is about a 30-minute drive away. This spot is special because it combines traditional winemaking with a touch of innovation. Artemis himself, a local born and bred, brings a personal passion for showcasing Santorini’s volcanic wines.

You’ll love the way this winery blends history and progress, with a museum that narrates the island’s winemaking story. The tasting at Artemis includes another four small glasses, focusing on Assyrtiko’s diversity across different vineyard sites. It’s a good way to see how terroir influences flavor and style, which many guests find fascinating.

Guests often comment on the friendly staff and the opportunity to really explore the nuances of Santorini wines. One reviewer mentioned how “the wines are very different, yet all excellent,” emphasizing the range and quality available.

Final Stop: Art Space Winery Museum Art Gallery

The last visit is to Art Space Winery Museum Art Gallery, located in Exo Gonia. Housed in an old pumice rock chamber of a former winery, this spot offers a different experience—combining art, history, and winemaking. It’s a place where Greek art meets local tradition, with displays of paintings and sculptures inspired by the island.

While at Art Space, you get a chance to taste more wines and see how contemporary Greek art complements the historic setting. This winery is also noted for its pioneering industrial approach and its panoramic views of the caldera, making it a memorable finish. Many reviews highlight the “breathtaking views of the sunset,” which makes the final moments of the tour truly special.

What the Tour Includes and Why It Matters

This tour offers 12 small glasses of wine—about four at each winery—giving you a comprehensive taste of what Santorini has to offer. The inclusion of a Greek meze-style meal adds a nice touch, balancing the wines with some local flavors. The small group setup ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, and the driver/guide makes sure you’re comfortable throughout.

The tour’s price of roughly $173 per person might seem steep, but considering that it covers transportation, tastings, the meal, and the guide’s expertise, many find it worthwhile. As one reviewer noted, “the wineries were perfect,” and the overall experience offers good value for those interested in quality over quantity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to wine lovers eager to learn about Santorini’s volcanic wines, especially Assyrtiko. If you appreciate scenic landscapes and want a blend of culture, history, and flavor, you’ll find this tour enriching. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer small, intimate groups for a more personal touch.

Families with older children might enjoy it if they’re interested in wine and art, but keep in mind the tasting is age-restricted—non-alcoholic drinks are available for minors. Those on a budget might find it a splurge, but for many, the quality of the visits, the scenery, and the expert guides justify the expense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, minors under 21 will be served non-alcoholic drinks, so the experience can still be enjoyable if you’re traveling with young ones who want to learn about the process or just enjoy the scenery.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 4 hours, including visits to three wineries, tastings, and a meal. The timing is flexible enough to fit comfortably into a day of sightseeing.

Are the tastings at each winery different?
Yes, each winery offers its own selection of wines, with Estate Argyros focusing on Assyrtiko, Aidani, and Mavrotraga; Artemis showcasing the diversity of Assyrtiko; and Art Space blending art with wine tasting. Many describe the wines as very different from each other, highlighting the variety.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, three winery visits with 12 tastings, a Greek meze-style meal, free Wi-Fi, and a bottle of water.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While primarily aimed at adults, the non-alcoholic drinks and the visual appeal of the scenery and art may make it suitable for older children or teenagers interested in learning about wine and art.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 27 days in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a spot and plan their day smoothly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Santorini and want a thoughtfully curated experience that combines wine, culture, and stunning views, this small-group tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who appreciate quality over quantity and enjoy learning about local traditions in an intimate setting. The knowledgeable guides, beautiful vineyards, and picturesque scenery create a memorable day.

While the ticket price isn’t the cheapest, the inclusion of tastings, a meal, and a guided experience makes it a good-value choice for serious wine enthusiasts or anyone looking to deepen their connection to the island’s unique terroir. The limited group size ensures you get personalized attention, making it a more engaging and relaxed way to explore Santorini’s wine scene.

If you’re after an authentic, comfortable, and scenic tasting journey, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Additional FAQs

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience starts.

Will I get to see the sunset during the tour?
While the sunset is mentioned as a highlight at the Art Space Winery, the tour ends before sunset, but the panoramic views are a constant feature, especially at the final stop.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tours use air-conditioned minivans, and reviewers often mention the friendly driver and smooth rides.

How crowded are the wineries?
Since the tour is small, you won’t be in crowded tasting rooms, and your guide will help make the experience more personal.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Gratuities are optional, and personal expenses aren’t included. You might want to tip your guide or staff if you’re pleased with the experience.

Would you recommend this for a romantic couple or solo traveler?
Absolutely. The intimate setting, beautiful views, and quality wine make it a lovely choice for couples or solo travelers wanting a relaxed, engaging experience.

If this sounds like your kind of day in Santorini, it’s a gentle way to enjoy the island’s wine heritage while soaking in some spectacular scenery. Cheers to discovering what makes Santorini’s wines so special!