Athens: Wine Tasting with a Sommelier under the Acropolis

Imagine sipping authentic Greek wines while gazing directly at the majestic Acropolis—that’s exactly what this 1.5-hour wine tasting experience offers. For $66 per person, you’ll meet your guide, a Greek sommelier named George Spirou, at a charming rooftop restaurant just under the famous ruins. It’s a relaxed yet insightful journey into Greece’s wine culture, with ample opportunities to learn, taste, and enjoy.

What we love about this tour is how it combines spectacular views with rare regional wines, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a sensory tour of Greece’s wine regions. Plus, the Greek tapas served alongside provide a perfect pairing, allowing you to savor the best of local flavors. The only potential drawback? Because it’s a relatively short experience, those looking for a deep dive into Greek wine might want to supplement it with additional tastings or visits.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences and want a taste of Greece’s wine heritage without long drives or complex schedules. It’s especially ideal if you’re a fan of stunning city views, or if you want a relaxed, educational activity that doesn’t eat up your entire day. Whether you’re just arriving in Athens or wrapping up your trip, it’s a wonderful way to spend an evening.

Key Points

• Authentic Greek wines from small, regional wineries provide a genuine taste of Greece.
• Spectacular views of the Acropolis create a memorable backdrop for the experience.
• Expert guidance from a Greek sommelier ensures knowledgeable commentary and personalized attention.
• Pairing with Greek tapas enhances the tasting and introduces local flavors.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation make planning stress-free.
• Suitable for those interested in wine, Greek culture, or memorable city views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The tour begins at Hill Athens Rooftop Restaurant, an elegant venue perched just beneath the Acropolis. As you arrive, you’ll immediately notice the stunning panoramic views, especially as the city lights start to glow in the evening. It’s a setting that naturally elevates the wine tasting—literally and figuratively. Your host, George Spirou, greets you with warmth and professionalism, setting the tone for a relaxed yet informative session.

George’s expertise shines through as he explains the Greek wine map, outlining the main wine-producing regions of Greece and the key grape varieties. This overview is particularly helpful for travelers unfamiliar with Greek wines, as it contextualizes the tasting and deepens your appreciation for what you’re about to try. The focus is on regional wines—rare varieties from small wineries—such as Roditis, Limnio, Kidonitsa, Muscat, Augoustiatis, and Mandilaras. These are not the typical mass-market wines, but special bottles that highlight Greece’s diverse terroirs.

The tasting itself begins with Dimitris guiding you through the wines, each carefully selected to showcase the unique flavors of Greece. Expect to sample around seven different wines, each paired with Greek tapas—think cheese, bread, and olives—carefully chosen to complement the wines’ profiles. Several reviews mention the quality and variety of the wines, with comments like, “The wines were a lovely discovery,” and “The wines were extremely interesting.” Many guests also appreciate the generous pours and the detailed explanations provided, which turn a simple tasting into a mini-lesson about Greek viticulture.

What makes this experience stand out?

First, the view of the Acropolis at night is truly breathtaking. Several reviews highlight how the panoramic backdrop heightens the enjoyment, making it feel like a special occasion. One reviewer noted, “The view of the Acropolis is breathtaking,” and many agree that the setting alone elevates the experience.

Second, the knowledge and friendliness of George leave a lasting impression. His enthusiastic explanations, combined with his approachable manner, turn a wine tasting into a personalized lesson. Comments such as “George was so knowledgeable,” and “He answered all questions easily,” exemplify his skill as a guide.

A possible consideration

While the experience is highly praised for its intimacy and quality, some reviews hint at group size issues—a larger group might feel less personal. One reviewer mentioned, “The group was way too large for the number of servers,” so if you prefer a more private experience, check for smaller groups or private options.

Who would this tour suit?

Wine enthusiasts looking to explore rare Greek varieties will find this particularly rewarding. It’s also perfect for those who want an easy, scenic way to learn about Greek wine without leaving Athens’ city center. If you appreciate spectacular cityscapes and a cozy atmosphere, this tour hits the spot. It’s a fantastic choice for couples, small groups, or even solo travelers eager to deepen their understanding of Greece’s wine culture.

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The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Hill Athens Rooftop Restaurant

Here, you’ll be greeted by George, who sets the tone with a warm welcome. Expect a brief overview of Greece’s wine regions, framing the tasting with some historical and geographic context. The introduction is concise but informative, giving you useful background without becoming a lecture.

The Wine Tasting

George introduces wines from small, regional wineries, emphasizing their uniqueness. As you sample each wine, you’ll learn about the grape varieties and regional characteristics. The tasting includes special Greek wines such as Roditis, Limnio, Kidonitsa, Muscat, Augoustiatis, and Mandilaras—each with its own story and flavor profile.

Guests have noted how George’s explanations make the wine come alive—not just a sip, but a story of Greek terroirs and traditions. The tasting is paired with Greek tapas—cheese, bread, and olives—carefully selected to match the wines, enhancing both the flavors and the experience.

The Views and Atmosphere

Throughout, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Acropolis, especially as night falls. The rooftop setting makes it feel more like a celebration of Greek culture than just a wine lesson. Many reviews mention the “gorgeous view” and how it adds to the overall enjoyment.

Ending Point

The tour concludes back at the starting location, leaving you with a memorable impression of Athens’ vibrant wine scene. Some guests have taken the opportunity afterward to stay for dinner, further indulging in local cuisine and taking in the stunning cityscape.

Analyzing the Price and Value

At $66 per person, this experience offers excellent value considering the quality of wines, expert guidance, and spectacular setting. Many reviews mention how generous the pours are and how the pairing enhances the overall taste. The inclusion of rare wines from small wineries makes it a meaningful experience for those interested in authentic Greek viticulture.

Compared to a typical wine tasting in a touristy setting, this tour provides an educational component—understanding Greece’s wine map—and an intimate atmosphere that’s hard to match. The flexible booking with free cancellation adds peace of mind, letting you secure your spot without worry.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This wine tasting is not just about drinking wine; it’s about connecting with Greece’s cultural palate in a beautiful setting. It’s perfect for travelers who value local authenticity, enjoy stunning views, and want a guided introduction to Greek wines. If you’re a fan of learning while experiencing, this tour delivers both in spades. It’s especially suited for those wanting to combine a relaxing evening with a bit of education about Greece’s wine heritage.

FAQs

• What is included in the tour?
  You’ll enjoy a wine-tasting menu featuring rare Greek wines from small wineries, paired with Greek tapas like cheese, bread, and olives. The experience is guided by a knowledgeable sommelier.

• How long does the tour last?
  The tour runs for approximately 1.5 hours, with specific starting times available based on booking.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It begins at the Hill Athens Rooftop Restaurant and concludes back at the same location.

• Is the experience suitable for beginners?
  Absolutely. The explanations are clear, and the focus is on learning and enjoying the wines. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious, you’ll find value here.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

• Are drinks and tapas included?
  Yes, the wine tasting and Greek tapas are part of the package, providing a complete sensory experience.

  You can check availability for your dates here: