Private Wine Tasting Experience of Greek Awarded Wines at Athens Wine Suburb

Imagine spending an afternoon wandering through two renowned Greek wineries, sampling award-winning wines, learning about traditional winemaking, and soaking in views of the countryside. For about $206 per person, this 4-hour private tour offers a well-rounded peek into Greece’s viticultural heritage, combined with the comfort of door-to-door transportation.

What we love most about this experience is its blend of personalized guided tastings—with knowledgeable sommeliers—and the chance to explore a wine museum that showcases centuries-old harvest and processing techniques. Plus, the opportunity to visit Domaine Vassiliou, a family-run estate producing wines from native Greek grape varieties, adds an authentic layer to the experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s duration may limit time at each stop. If you’re looking for a deep dive into a single winery or a full-day experience, this might feel a bit brief. Still, for those wanting a balanced overview, the tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate good wine, cultural insights, and the convenience of a private, door-to-door experience.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private transportation and guided tastings make for an intimate exploration.
• Award-Winning Wines: Samples include internationally recognized labels, showcasing Greek excellence.
• Cultural Insights: The wine museum offers a tangible look at traditional harvest and processing methods.
• Authentic Greek Wines: Focus on native varieties like Savvatiano and PGI Attica showcased at the wineries.
• Beautiful Locations: Visits outside Athens provide scenic views and a break from city sightseeing.
• Flexible Options: The tour can include a stop at the Temple of Poseidon for added sightseeing.

An Unbiased Look at the Tour Experience

This private wine tour in Athens provides an enjoyable, balanced look at Greece’s wine scene—something not every visitor gets to do. The fact that it’s private means that your group can tailor questions to the guides—be they about winemaking traditions or local Greek grapes—and enjoy a relaxed pace.

Transportation is included, which is a boon in Athens, where traffic and parking can be challenging. The use of air-conditioned executive cars or mini vans ensures comfort, especially if you’re traveling in warm weather. The pickup service means you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or taxis—a big plus for those unfamiliar with Athens.

The wineries visited—Markou Vineyards and Domaine Vassiliou—are both well-respected. Markou Vineyards is notable for its international awards, such as the Silver at the PAR Wine Award for their Schinopefko Retsina. You’ll get to taste three award-winning labels alongside a variety of Greek and global cheeses and bakery items, making the tasting both diverse and satisfying.

At Domaine Vassiliou, you’ll meet George Vassiliou, a third-generation winemaker whose family has been producing high-quality wines since 1905. The estate is known for crafting wines from indigenous Greek grape varieties, offering a genuine taste of Greece’s wine identity.

What to Expect During the Tour

Stop 1: Markou Vineyards & Wine Museum

Your first stop is Markou Vineyards, about a 40-minute drive from Athens. Here, you’ll taste three wines that have received international recognition. The Schinopefko Retsina is a white wine with a dry profile and a Silver at the 2017 PAR Wine Award, which speaks to its quality. The Pixie rosé has earned a 3-star rating at a 2017 tasting competition, indicating broad appeal. Lastly, the Savvatiano—a Greek native white grape—also scores 3 stars at the same contest.

Accompanying the tasting are Greek and international cheeses and bakery items, making each sip more delightful. Afterward, you’ll visit the wine museum, where photographs and old machinery illustrate traditional harvest and wine processing techniques from the 19th century. It’s a clear reminder of how Greek winemaking has evolved—and how much craftsmanship still underpins each bottle.

Stop 2: Domaine Vassiliou & Nemeion Estate

The second visit takes you to Domaine Vassiliou, located in Koropi, Attica. George Vassiliou, the third-generation winemaker, produces wines from indigenous Greek grapes, emphasizing authenticity. You’ll learn about his family’s long history and see the modern facilities where tradition meets innovation. Expect to taste more wines, again with guidance from knowledgeable staff.

Additional Options and Sightseeing

If you opt for the extended package, you could combine this wine experience with a visit to the Temple of Poseidon nearby, enjoying a scenic drive along the coast and a seaside lunch. While this isn’t included in the basic tour price, it’s a popular add-on for travelers seeking more Greek sights.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The personalized nature of the tour lets you ask questions and focus on what interests you most.
– Award-winning wines ensure a high-quality tasting experience, often highlighting Greek grapes you won’t find elsewhere.
– Visiting a historic wine museum offers a tangible connection to Greece’s winemaking roots.
– Comfortable transportation means you’re free to relax and enjoy the scenery without hassle.
– The reviews emphasize the guides’ expertise and the stunning coastal views, adding depth to the overall experience.

Cons:
– The limited duration (about 4 hours) might restrict how much time you have at each winery.
– If you’re craving a full-day immersion or in-depth exploration of just one winery, this tour may feel somewhat brief.
– The cost, at just over $200, is reasonable but might seem steep for those on a tight budget, especially considering the tasting and museum included.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting a curated, insider look at Greek wines, especially those interested in award-winning labels. It suits travelers who enjoy a mix of wine tasting, cultural education, and scenic drives, rather than a busy, crowded group tour. The private setting makes it ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more relaxed, informative day.

If you’re curious about Greek wine traditions and want to see authentic estates, this tour delivers. It also appeals to those who appreciate beautiful coastal views and want a seamless, hassle-free way to explore outside Athens.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, covering two wineries, a wine museum, and transportation.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get private transportation, guided tastings of award-winning wines, Greek and global cheeses and bakery items, and access to the wine museum.

Can I customize the tour?
While the basic tour is fixed, you can choose to add a visit to the Temple of Poseidon and enjoy a seaside lunch if you opt for the extended version.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the trip uses air-conditioned executive cars or mini vans, ensuring comfort during the drive.

Are the wineries far from Athens?
They are outside Athens, with Markou Vineyards and Domaine Vassiliou both located a short drive away. The scenic countryside makes the journey pleasant.

Do I need to be a wine expert?
Not at all. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and the tastings are suited for all levels of wine familiarity.

Is the tour suitable for groups?
This is a private tour, perfect for small groups or couples seeking a personalized experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is only included if you choose the extended option that incorporates a seaside meal; otherwise, it’s not part of the base package.

Final Words

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate tasting journey into Greece’s award-winning wines, this tour offers a compelling blend of authenticity, comfort, and cultural insight. It’s designed for those who want to enjoy Greek wines in a setting that’s both educational and scenic, with the convenience of private transport and expert guidance.

While it’s not the longest or most intensive wine tour available, it balances quality and value beautifully. The inclusion of a wine museum adds a historical touch that enriches your understanding of Greek wine-making traditions. And the trustworthiness of the reviews—each rating a perfect 5—speaks volumes about the tour’s consistent quality.

Perfect for couples, small groups, or curious travelers, this experience offers a taste of Greece’s winemaking heritage in a way that’s both enjoyable and memorable. If you love discovering local flavors and want a straightforward, well-organized day out from Athens, this tour is a fine choice.

Note: Always consider your own pace and interests when booking. If you’re a serious wine connoisseur or crave a longer, more immersive experience, you might want to explore other options. But for an engaging, manageable taste of Greek wine and culture, this tour hits most of the right notes.