Small Group Local Wine Tasting Tour In Santorini

Our review of this Small Group Local Wine Tasting Tour in Santorini aims to give travelers an honest, detailed look at what makes this experience stand out — or where it might fall short. If you’re dreaming of sipping Santorini’s famous Assyrtiko wines while soaking up the island’s iconic views, this tour offers an approachable way to do just that.

What we love about this experience? First, the opportunity to visit three distinct wineries, each with its own unique character and approach to winemaking. Second, the tour’s emphasis on volcanic terroir, which gives the wines an extraordinary flavor profile you won’t find elsewhere. A possible consideration? The cost, which might seem steep at first glance, but when you factor in the guided visits, tastings, and included meal, it can be worthwhile for wine enthusiasts.

This tour is especially well-suited for curious travelers who want a behind-the-scenes look at Santorini’s wine scene, enjoy small-group intimacy, and appreciate authentic, handcrafted wines with spectacular views. It’s also perfect if you prefer a convenient, all-in-one experience that includes transport and local insights, saving you the hassle of planning multiple visits yourself.

Key Points

• In-Depth Winery Visits: Explore three diverse wineries, each showcasing volcanic wines and local craftsmanship.
• Expert Guides: Small group setting allows for personalized attention and richer storytelling, as noted by reviewers praising guides like Spyros.
• Stunning Views: Expect gorgeous scenery, including ocean vistas and caldera panoramas, enhancing the tasting experience.
• Comprehensive Experience: Tasting 12 small glasses of wine paired with a Greek meze-style meal provides excellent value.
• Convenience: Pickup, drop-off, air-conditioned transport, and Wi-Fi make the trip smooth and comfortable.
• Authentic, Local Feel: Visits include a museum, old winery chambers, and a focus on Santorini’s volcanic soil, creating a genuine atmosphere.

Introduction: The Allure of Santorini’s Wines

Santorini isn’t just about stunning sunsets and whitewashed buildings; it’s also home to some of Greece’s most intriguing wines. This small-group tour promises a taste of the island’s volcanic vineyards, where each sip is infused with the island’s fiery history and mineral-rich soil.

Travelers who appreciate authentic local flavors, scenic views, and intimate experiences will find this tour appealing. We’re especially fond of the fact that it offers a comprehensive look at the island’s winemaking traditions, with visits to varied wineries and an art-filled museum.

A key benefit is the small group size—no crowded bus here—and the pickup service that makes logistics easy, freeing you to relax and focus on the experience. One thing to consider: the price point reflects the quality and depth of the experience, so it’s best suited for those genuinely interested in wine and cultural discovery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The wineries chosen for this tour aren’t random. Estate Argyros, Artemis Karamolegos, and Art Space Winery Museum each offer a unique perspective on Santorini’s wine scene. They’ve been praised for their diverse wine selections, beautiful settings, and the stories they tell.

Guide expertise seems to be a highlight, with travelers describing the guides as brilliant and knowledgeable. The small group format (max 15 people) allows for a personalized, engaging experience that many larger tours can’t match.

Views and ambiance are also a big plus. Imagine tasting crisp Assyrtiko wines with the caldera’s cliffs as your backdrop or enjoying the sunset after a day of tasting. That’s the kind of magic this tour offers.

Stop 1: Estate Argyros

The tour kicks off at Estate Argyros, located about 5.5 km southeast of Fira. Here, the large vineyard estate provides a perfect introduction to Santorini’s winemaking heritage. The tasting room’s stunning ocean views immediately set the scene.

This estate primarily cultivates Assyrtiko, the white grape that defines Santorini wines, grown in volcanic soil that imparts a distinct minerality. You’ll also sample Aidani and Mavrotraga, adding variety to your palate.

According to reviews, the setting enhances the tasting experience, making it more than just a sip of wine. The expansive views help you appreciate the landscape that influences the wines’ character. Reviewers mention the delightful wines and the expertise of the staff, with one noting the estate’s focus on capturing the island’s terroir.

Stop 2: Artemis Karamolegos Winery

Next up is Artemis Karamolegos Winery, renowned for blending tradition with innovation. Here, you’ll find a small museum detailing the history of winemaking in Santorini, giving you a deeper context.

Born and raised on the island, Artemis is passionate about showcasing the volcanic terroir through his wines. His approach involves careful grape selection and a dedication to producing high-quality wines that highlight Assyrtiko’s versatility.

Travelers rave about this stop, with many appreciating the diversity of wines and the passion of the winemaker. The museum provides insight into the island’s winemaking evolution, adding an educational layer to the tasting.

Stop 3: Art Space Winery Museum Art Gallery

The tour’s final stop is Art Space Winery Museum Art Gallery, a unique art-focused winery located in a historic pumice rock chamber. This visit is as much about art and history as it is about wine.

The old winery, dating back to 1861, displays works of Greek contemporary art, offering a cultural aftertaste to your wine journey. The modern winery still produces wine on-site, meaning you get to taste renowned local wines amid a setting filled with artistic expression.

Several reviews mention the atmosphere of this stop as warm and inspiring, combining cultural appreciation with wine tasting. The panoramic views of the caldera and the sunset make this a memorable finale.

The tour’s price of $173.47 per person covers a good deal. You get hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free. The transport is by air-conditioned minivan—a comfort after a day of walking or exploring.

You’ll sample 12 small glasses of volcanic wines, with four tastings at each winery, giving you enough variety to appreciate the differences. The Greek meze-style meal complements the wines, offering a taste of local flavors.

Additional perks include free Wi-Fi, a bottle of water, and an English-speaking guide. Small groups (max 15) ensure you’re not just a face in the crowd, but part of aninteractive experience.

What’s not included? Gratuities are optional, and personal expenses are on you. Since minors are served non-alcoholic drinks, families with young children can participate comfortably.

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful settings. One traveler described the guide as brilliant from start to finish, highlighting the personalized attention small groups receive.

Transportation gets high marks for being easy and accommodating, with some noting they could fit their entire group comfortably. The wineries themselves are said to be perfect, offering a variety of wines and friendly staff.

A common theme is the value for money. With tastings, transportation, a meal, and cultural insights included, many feel the experience is worth the price — especially given the quality of wines and the stunning views.

This small-group wine tasting experience is ideal for travelers who want more than just a quick look at Santorini’s wines. If you’re eager to learn about volcanic terroir, enjoy intimate, guided experiences, and love spectacular scenery, this tour hits all those marks.

It’s especially suited for wine lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a stress-free, educational outing with a touch of luxury. The inclusion of a museum and art gallery adds an extra layer for those interested in more than just tasting.

While the price might be higher than some other tours, the comprehensive nature, expert guides, and beautiful settings make it a solid value for those seeking a deeper connection with Santorini’s wine and landscape.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, including visits to three wineries, tastings, and the meal.

What is included in the price?
You get hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by minivan, 12 wine tastings (4 at each winery), a Greek meze-style meal, Wi-Fi, and a bottle of water.

Are drinks served to minors?
No, alcoholic drinks are only served to travelers over 21. Minors receive non-alcoholic beverages.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 12:00 pm, with pickup from your hotel.

Is the tour suitable for people with food allergies?
Yes, just inform the guide of any dietary needs or allergies when booking.

Will I get to see the sunset?
While not explicitly part of the standard itinerary, several stops feature caldera views and sunset scenery, making it a potential highlight.

What makes this tour different from others?
The focus on volcanic wines, small group size, cultural stops like the museum and art gallery, and expert guides create a well-rounded, authentic experience.

This Santorini wine tour offers a fantastic blend of local flavor, scenic beauty, and cultural insight, perfect for those wanting to deepen their appreciation of the island’s unique wine heritage while enjoying a comfortable, intimate setting.