Wine Tasting with Panagiotis aka Chilly August

If you’re heading to Zakynthos and have even a passing interest in wine, this Wine Tasting with Panagiotis aka Chilly could turn out to be one of your favorite local experiences. From the moment you sit down in a family olive grove, you get a sense that this isn’t your typical tasting—it’s intimate, relaxed, and genuinely educational. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just curious about Greek varieties, this little session packs a lot into about two hours.

What we really love about this experience is how personable Panagiotis makes it. He’s not just pouring wine; he’s sharing stories, explaining regional differences, and making everyone feel like friends sharing a drink. Plus, the setting—surrounded by olive trees and natural beauty—sets a calming backdrop for tasting some of Greece’s iconic wines. One potential hurdle? The price is quite reasonable, but with only 2 hours, don’t expect a full-blown wine education—think of it more as a taste and vibe experience.

This tour is perfect for anyone wanting an authentic, relaxed introduction to Greek wine, especially if you enjoy pairing good drinks with good company. It’s also a good choice if you want to avoid overly commercialized tastings and instead enjoy local flavors in a peaceful outdoor setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Setting: Tasting in a family olive grove offers a peaceful, picturesque environment.
• Educational & Fun: Learn about Greek wine styles and regional varieties in a friendly way.
• Local Flavors: Tastes include 3-5 different wines alongside bread and Greek meze.
• Limited Group Size: Max of 10 travelers, which keeps things intimate and personal.
• Affordable Price: At just over $33, it offers good value for a memorable experience.
• Weather-dependent: Expect good weather for the best experience; cancellations are flexible.

An Honest Look at the Experience

When considering a wine tasting tour like Panagiotis’s, it’s important to understand what makes this stand out—and what might not be for everyone. The two-hour duration is perfect if you’re looking for a quick, relaxed introduction rather than an in-depth wine course. It leaves plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings, chat with Panagiotis, and really savor the wines.

The setting is one of the biggest draws. Sitting together at a family-owned olive grove, you’re immediately transported away from the busier tourist spots. The vibe is informal, and Panagiotis is generous with his knowledge and stories. According to reviews, the atmosphere is very welcoming, and you’ll likely feel at ease whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned sipper.

The wine tasting itself includes 3-5 varieties from Greek regions or Zakynthos specifically. This range gives you a good sense of the country’s style—something that’s appreciated by experienced wine lovers, as one reviewer praised how informative and fun the tasting was. You also get a tasting notes sheet with the names of grape varieties and producers, making it easy to remember what you liked and perhaps seek out in stores later.

The selection of wines tends to be well-chosen—”great atmosphere and experience trying different wines” is how one guest summed it up. Many also appreciated the pairing with fresh bread and Greek meze, which enhances the tasting and makes it feel like a proper little feast. The food isn’t elaborate but adds enough to balance the wines and keep things light.

What To Expect at Each Step

Start at Hotel Daphnes Villas & Apartments in Porto Roma, where Panagiotis will greet you and lead you to the outdoor setting. The relaxed 6:00 pm start time makes it perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Once seated in the olive grove, the group introduces themselves, setting a friendly tone. Panagiotis then shares a brief overview of Greek wine history—giving context to the varieties you’ll taste. This gives you a better appreciation of what makes Greek wines distinctive, especially if you’re new to the scene.

The tasting begins with carefully selected wines, each served with some fresh bread and Greek meze. As you sip, Panagiotis explains the characteristics of each variety, regional influences, and what makes each producer unique. He’s approachable about answering questions, making it easy to learn and feel more confident about your palate.

Between tastings, there’s ample time to relax, chat, and take in the beautiful surroundings. You might find that the environment—and the conversation—becomes as memorable as the wines themselves.

End the session back at the starting point, with plenty of notes to help you remember your favorites. The experience is designed to be enjoyable, social, and informative—without the pressure of a formal wine class.

Analyzing Value and Practical Considerations

At $33.19 per person, this tour offers a good balance between cost and experience. You get a couple of hours in a lovely setting, tasting multiple wines, with snacks included. For travelers interested in Greek wine but not looking to spend a fortune, this offers a genuine taste of regional flavors without the fuss or cost of a larger winery tour.

The small group size (up to 10 travelers) means you’re likely to get personalized attention from Panagiotis, which is a big plus. It’s also an intimate environment that encourages friendly conversation—perfect if you’re traveling solo or with friends.

Since the tour is weather-dependent, you’ll want to check the forecast. If rain or strong winds are forecasted, the experience might be canceled and rescheduled or refunded. But in good weather, sitting under the open sky among olive trees really elevates the experience.

Booking in advance—about 13 days on average—helps ensure you secure a spot, especially during peak season. The process is straightforward with a mobile ticket, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours prior, giving you some flexibility.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, intimate introduction to Greek wine. If you appreciate a relaxed outdoor setting and are curious about regional varieties, you’ll enjoy this. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer quality over quantity—sampling a handful of wines with knowledgeable guidance.

While not specifically family-focused, the relaxed pace and outdoor environment could make it suitable for older children or teenagers interested in learning about wine, but note that it’s primarily aimed at adults.

If you’re after a quick, fun activity that combines local culture, good wine, and a warm atmosphere, this tour hits the mark. Conversely, if you’re expecting a lengthy, in-depth tasting or a large-scale commercial experience, you might find this a bit understated.

Final Thoughts

For just over thirty dollars, Panagiotis’s wine tasting offers a genuine taste of Greece’s wine culture in a setting that feels more like visiting friends than a tourist trap. The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly guidance, and tasty local wines makes it a superb choice for those wanting a relaxed yet informative experience.

If you’re in Zakynthos and want to learn about Greek wines without the crowds or high prices, this is a little gem. It’s perfect for wine lovers, curious travelers, or anyone who wants to slow down and enjoy a taste of local life. Just remember to check the weather and book ahead—these small, intimate experiences fill up quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or families?
While it’s mainly aimed at adults, the outdoor setting and relaxed vibe could work for older children or teenagers interested in wine. However, since it’s an adult-focused experience, younger children might not find it engaging.

How long does the tasting last?
The experience lasts approximately two hours, starting at 6:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll taste 3-5 different Greek wines, accompanied by fresh bread and Greek meze. You also receive a notes sheet with the grape varieties and producers.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a friendly, personal experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Since it’s outdoors, dress comfortably and consider bringing sun protection or a light jacket depending on the weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the experience. Refunds are processed promptly, giving you peace of mind.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about two weeks ahead is advisable, especially during busy seasons, to secure your spot.

If you’re after a relaxed, engaging introduction to Greek wines in a stunning outdoor setting, this tour with Panagiotis is hard to beat. It’s a genuine, affordable way to connect with local flavors and make some memorable moments in Zakynthos.