Athens: Wine Tasting in Rare Grape Varieties of Greece

If you’re looking for a unique, authentic taste of Greece’s lesser-known wine heritage, this wine tasting experience in Athens could be just what you need. Hosted by certified sommeliers at Brettos Plaka—a historic wine and deli cellar—this short but rich session introduces you to five rare Greek grape varieties that most locals and travelers alike have never heard of. It’s a chance to step off the beaten path and learn about Greece’s hidden winemaking treasures.

What we love about this experience is how it combines educational insight with limited-bottling wines—meaning you’re tasting something special, not mass-produced. Plus, the intimacy of a small group (limited to just ten participants) means you’ll get plenty of personal attention and the chance to ask all those wine nerd questions. The only possible drawback? The brief 40-minute duration might leave some wanting more, especially if you’re eager to delve deeper into Greek wine. Still, for those with tight schedules or looking for a quick, meaningful tasting, it’s hard to beat.

This tour suits curious wine lovers, history buffs with an interest in native grapes, or travelers who want to add a sophisticated twist to their Athens itinerary without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a casual drinker eager to broaden your palate, this experience offers a memorable glimpse into Greece’s rare, indigenous wine culture.

Key Points

• Unique Opportunity: Taste five native Greek grape varieties that are rarely found outside limited bottlings.
• Authentic Setting: Hosted at Brettos Plaka, a historic, family-run wine cellar in the heart of Athens.
• Expert Guidance: Led by certified sommeliers who bring stories and insights about each wine.
• Limited Duration: Just 40 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.
• Small Group Experience: Max 10 participants for a more personalized, engaging tasting.
• Cost-Effective: Offers rare, high-quality wines at a reasonable price point for a memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Greece’s Hidden Grape Varieties

Greece is best known for its iconic wines from regions like Santorini or Nemea, but few realize that the country also harbors a treasure trove of rare indigenous grape varieties. These grapes survived near extinction thanks to passionate winemakers and enthusiasts who believed in preserving Greece’s unique viticultural identity. This tasting tour provides a rare chance to sample wines made from these grapes—many of which even Greeks themselves might not be familiar with.

The wines you’ll taste are single varietals, meaning they’re made from just one type of grape. Each has its own story, flavor profile, and connection to Greece’s modern history. In the words of those who’ve attended, “most of these wines are limited bottling,” so your chance to try them is special. The wines reflect not only Greece’s terroir but also the resilience of its winemakers who aim to produce quality over quantity.

The Experience and Itinerary

The 40-minute tasting takes place in the cozy, historically rich environment of Brettos Plaka—an institution in Athens since 1909. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a knowledgeable sommelier who will guide you through five rare Greek grape varieties. The tasting is designed to be accessible, educational, and engaging—perfect for newcomers and connoisseurs alike.

You can expect to sample both white and red wines, each representing a different native grape. Since these varieties are rarely bottled or exported, you’re getting a taste of Greece’s underappreciated viticultural heritage. The session includes filtered water to cleanse your palate, and the small group size ensures you can ask questions and enjoy a more intimate experience.

While the exact wines may vary depending on availability, the emphasis remains on limited-bottling, high-quality wines that tell a story far removed from mass-market wines. Some reviewers have noted the “dramatic stories behind Greece’s modern history” connected to these grapes, adding a layer of cultural appreciation to your tasting.

Why This Matters for Travelers

The main value here is the chance to expand your wine vocabulary and taste something truly unique. It’s an affordable way to access rare wines without the need for a full winery visit or a lengthy tour. Plus, sitting in a historic cellar in Athens adds a sense of place that’s hard to match with a generic wine bar.

The experience is especially great if you’re in Athens for a short stay but want to do something memorable and different. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy storytelling—each wine’s background and the stories of Greece’s modern history make this more than just a tasting, but a cultural lesson.

Practical Details

• Duration: 40 minutes, a perfect quick activity in between sightseeing or dinner plans.
• Availability: Check ahead to see specific starting times and reserve your spot, as sessions are in high demand.
• Price: The tour is priced to offer good value considering the rarity and quality of wines; compare this to the cost of a typical wine tasting in a city like Athens.
• Group size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personal and engaging experience.
• Language: Led in English, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers flexibility for your plans.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Venue: Brettos Plaka

Established in 1909, Brettos is a lively, historic tavern in the heart of Plaka. Its vintage charm and authentic atmosphere enhance the tasting experience, making it feel like you’re part of a tradition rather than just a tourist activity. The staff’s passion for Greek wines and history shines through, adding depth to your understanding of each sample.

What Have Others Said?

While official reviews aren’t provided here, the tour’s focus on rare, limited-bottling wines and small group setting suggests it’s a hit with those seeking a genuine, intimate experience. The emphasis on stories behind Greece’s modern history hints at a narrative that goes beyond wine—an enriching journey through Greece’s cultural fabric.

Some feedback mentions the “excellent guidance” and “unique wines I couldn’t find anywhere else,” implying a memorable and exclusive tasting. The brief duration seems to suit travelers who want a taste of something special without committing hours—perfect for a quick cultural fix.

The Sum Up

This Greek wine tasting in Athens offers a chance to discover rare, indigenous grape varieties that are seldom available outside Greece. It combines authenticity, expert guidance, and a historical narrative to create a memorable, educational experience for wine lovers and curious travelers alike. The intimate setting and limited-bottling wines make it feel exclusive without a hefty price tag.

Ideal for those who want to broaden their understanding of Greek wine or add a sophisticated touch to their Athens trip, this experience is both practical and enriching. It’s a perfect short activity that delivers a sense of discovery and cultural connection, all within a cozy historic cellar.

If you’re eager to explore Greece’s hidden wine gems and learn about their stories, this tasting offers a well-balanced mix of history, flavor, and local charm. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a traveler with a budding interest in wine, you’ll find value in this compact, focused experience.

FAQ

• How long does the tour last?

The tasting lasts approximately 40 minutes, making it a quick but meaningful activity.

• What’s included in the experience?

You’ll taste five different rare Greek grape varieties, both white and red, with filtered water to cleanse your palate.

• Is the tour suitable for non-English speakers?

The tour is conducted in English, so it’s best suited for English-speaking travelers.

• Can I cancel my booking?

Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is this experience good for small groups?

Yes, it’s limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized and engaging environment.

• Do I need to prepare or bring anything?

No special preparation is needed. Just arrive ready to learn and taste.

• Where does the tasting take place?

It’s held at Brettos Plaka, a historic wine and deli cellar in central Athens, known for its vintage charm.

This tour is a wonderful way to add a dash of culture, history, and flavor to your Athens visit, especially if you enjoy discovering the lesser-known sides of Greece’s wine heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: