Santorini Wine Tour: Taste 12 best wines & 3 beers with pairings

Santorini Wine Tour: Taste 12 Best Wines & 3 Beers with Pairings

If you’re dreaming of Santorini, you likely picture stunning caldera views, white-washed buildings, and sunset cruises. But this island also has a hidden treasure — its wine and beer culture. For around $185 per person, this 4 to 5-hour small-group tour offers a taste of Santorini’s unique viniculture and brewing traditions, led by guides who love sharing their passion.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the intimate group size (capped at 8) — making it more like a friends’ outing than a crowdsourced event — and the chance to go behind the scenes in three different wineries and a craft brewery. It’s a well-rounded way to get a deeper understanding of local beverages, and the included pairings and snacks elevate the tasting experience.

However, some travelers have mentioned that the tastings can feel a bit cramped, and the schedule might be rushed at times. If you’re someone who loves relaxed, unhurried visits, that’s worth keeping in mind. Still, this tour suits adventurous wine and beer enthusiasts who want a personalized, authentic glimpse into Santorini’s alcohol scene, all while enjoying the stunning island scenery.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small groups capped at eight ensure plenty of interaction and personalized attention.
• Diverse Tastings: Sample 12 top wines and 3 local beers, with snacks included to complement each sip.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: Tours of three distinguished wineries plus a craft brewery give insight into production processes.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about Santorini’s beverage culture.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off mean you can relax and enjoy without worrying about transportation.
• Value for Money: With generous tastings, multiple stops, and expert insights, it’s a solid investment for wine lovers.

A Closer Look at the Santorini Wine & Beer Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off in the early afternoon with hotel pickup, making it easy to start your exploration without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads. The first stop is Estate Argyros, where you’ll spend about an hour touring the winery and tasting a selection of wines. Expect gorgeous views from the estate, along with the chance to learn about Santorini’s wine-making traditions firsthand.

Next, you’ll visit the Santorini Brewing Company for a quick 15-minute taste of local beers — Red, Yellow, and Crazy Donkey — all crafted locally. This stop adds a refreshing twist to the usual wine tour, perfect for beer enthusiasts or those seeking a broader taste of the island’s alcohol scene.

The third stop is at Art Space, which combines a winery tour with a tasting session of their wines. This visit lasts around 40 minutes, allowing you to see the winemaking process more closely and explore the artistic ambiance of the space — some reviews highlight it as one of the most beautiful and inspiring stops.

The final stop is Anhydrous Winery, founded by Apostolos Mountrichas in 2012, with a philosophy rooted in experimenting with ancient techniques to produce purity and primary varietal characteristics. Expect about an hour here, where you’ll sample wines that showcase the strong personality of Assyrtiko, the signature grape of Santorini.

What Makes Each Stop Special

Estate Argyros offers stunning views and a chance to learn about local winemaking traditions. Several reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make these visits more engaging — one reviewer even called their guide “fantastick” for making the day so enjoyable.

Santorini Brewing Company provides a fun contrast with its craft beers, allowing you to appreciate local brewing techniques alongside wine tasting. It’s a quick stop but adds variety, especially appreciated by those who enjoy trying different types of alcohol.

Art Space stands out for its artistic vibe and beautiful setting. The tour of the winery and the tasting is described as “divine,” and the caves filled with artwork create an inspiring atmosphere.

Anhydrous Winery emphasizes experimentation and ancient techniques, resulting in modern wines with distinctive qualities. This stop is particularly valued for its focus on craftsmanship and the personal touch of the winemaker.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Insights

According to reviews, guides like Billy and Nicholas stand out for their knowledge, hospitality, and ability to make guests feel like friends rather than just travelers. One reviewer mentioned, “Billy made our experience so fun that we never wanted it to end,” which echoes the overall sentiment that the guides significantly enhance the tour.

The Overall Experience

The tastings are generous, with most reviews noting the wines and beers are of high quality and often exclusive to this tour. Many travelers mention that they enjoyed the opportunity to taste wines they couldn’t find elsewhere on the island. Snacks are provided at select stops, helping balance the alcohol and keep you comfortable.

While some note that the tastings can feel cramped or that the schedule is a little rushed, the overall vibe remains positive. The small group size means you get plenty of personal attention, and the relaxed pace — especially with hotel pickup and drop-off — makes it a stress-free way to spend an afternoon.

The Value of This Tour

At roughly $185, the tour offers a comprehensive look at Santorini’s wine and beer scene, plus the added benefit of a knowledgeable guide. The multiple stops mean you’ll sample a wide range of beverages, and the behind-the-scenes elements give you insight into the local craftsmanship. Many reviews suggest it’s worth the price for wine lovers wanting a deeper connection with the island’s beverage culture.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to learn about Santorini’s unique wines and craft beers in an intimate setting. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided experiences and want a personal touch—the small group size, friendly guides, and behind-the-scenes access make it feel like a private tasting with friends.

It also appeals to food and drink enthusiasts who appreciate quality and authenticity. If you’re curious about local winemaking techniques or want to sample exclusive wines, you’ll find this tour rewarding. However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or dislike rushed visits, this might be less ideal.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini Wine and Beer Tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience the island’s alcoholic traditions beyond the usual sightseeing. The expert guides, beautiful locations, and wide selection of tastings make it a standout option for those who want depth and authenticity.

The small-group setting creates an atmosphere of camaraderie, and the hotel pickup simplifies logistics. While the schedule can sometimes feel hurried, many travelers find that the quality of wines, beers, and insights more than compensates. This tour is a fantastic choice for those eager to connect more deeply with Santorini’s local culture, and it’s a chance to enjoy the island’s famous flavors in a relaxed, friendly environment.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including all stops, tastings, and the drive.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel are offered, making it convenient and comfortable.

What’s the group size?
The tour is capped at 8 guests, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are there vegetarian or special diet options?
The information provided doesn’t specify dietary options; it’s best to check directly with Greece Holiday Tours for any specific needs.

Can I expect to taste local wines and beers I won’t find elsewhere?
Many reviews mention that the wines and beers sampled are exclusive or difficult to find outside the tour, adding to its value.

How much wine and beer will I taste?
Expect to sample a broad range of 12 wines and 3 local beers, with generous pours and pairing snacks.

This Santorini tour blends scenic beauty, local craftsmanship, and friendly guides — an authentic way to savor the island’s flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious about local brews, you’re in for a memorable—and delicious—afternoon.