The Aegean Islands are a picturesque group of islands located in the Aegean Sea, which lies between Greece and Turkey. These islands are known for their rich history, stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and simply fascinating wines. From volcanic soils to warm sea breezes, the unique terroirs of these islands shape wines that are distinctive, unique and reflective of their origins.
The Greek Aegean Islands have a very long history of winemaking that stretches back to ancient days. The islands' strategic location made them a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange, contributing to the evolution of their winemaking traditions making them a key player in the world of wine since the beginning days of wine production and export.
The vineyards of Aegean islands have adapted to the extreme weather in the region - from rough drought periods, water stress and strong winds vines produce grapes that can withstand the rare island climate and produce wines with distinct character and a unique taste profile. Working in these conditions to produce wines of quality has become demanding and specialized. These wines are rare to find and prove to be extremely delicious on your palate, making the regions and its wines a mecca for wine enthusiasts.
Winemakers in the Aegean Islands use a blend of modern and traditional in their winemaking. There is a strong focus on sustainability, organic and biodynamic farming and also a growing interest in natural and minimal intervention wines, which highlight the unique characteristics of the island’s terroirs. Natural wine is often found in these parts and beloved by hipsters and wine lovers around the world.
Known as the ‘Land of Assyrtiko’ this flagship white grape variety, is well known for its high acidity and mineral qualities, often described as "salty" or "flinty." Considered to be one of the noblest white varieties of Greece, Assyrtiko wines are dry and crisp, with flavors of citrus, green apple, and sometimes volcanic notes. A wine with a distinct personality once tasted can never be forgotten.
Here is a short snapshot of some of a few of the Aegean Islands and their wine styles.
Photo Credit : Wines of Greece - Assyrtiko vines
Santorini
Santorini, the most famous of the Aegean Islands for its wine, is renowned for its unique volcanic terroir. Santorini and the smaller island of Thirassia, are the result of the great volcano eruption back in 1500 BC. The eruption created the famous landscape of “caldera”. The island’s soil is rich in minerals and volcanic ash, which imparts a distinct minerality to its wines. The dominant grape variety here is Assyrtiko, a white varietal known for its crisp acidity, citrus notes, and mineral qualities. Santorini also produces also the famous Vinsanto, a naturally sweet wine made by sundried grapes.
Santorini’s winemakers often use traditional methods, such as the "kouloura" technique, where vines are trained into basket-shaped clusters to protect the grapes from the harsh winds and intense sun. This method helps to preserve moisture and concentrate the flavors in the grapes. Grapes are hand harvested and the resulting juice is worth every bit of hard work.
Tinos
Tinos has the most impressive development concerning the plantation and cultivation of the vineyards, as well as wine tourism activities, in such a short period. The investments coming from local producers, and foreign oenologists/winemakers who discovered the unique terroir in Tinos island, led to the renaissance of island’s wine production, especially focused on indigenous grape varieties. The climatic conditions in Tinos are hot, dry and windy. Soils are infertile and the island is quite hilly. The most impressive landscape is definitely the one of “volakes”, where huge stones in the middle of Volax village, attired the interest of international winemakers and contributed to this successful brand. Apart from varieties like Assyrtiko or Mavrotragano that are also some rarely cultivated ones, like the white Potamisi and Potamisi mavro (i.e. red variety) that originate from this island and some producers try to rescue.
Photo Credit : Wines of Greece Paros vineyards
Naxos
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades and offers a diverse range of wines. The island is known for its production of both white and red wines. Key varietals include Mavrotragano, a red grape that produces rich, full-bodied wines with flavors of dark fruit and spices, and Rindinella, a local white grape with fruity and floral characteristics. Naxos is also famous for its Vidiano white wines, which offer a unique profile with notes of honey, ripe fruits, and a balanced acidity.
Dodecanese - Rhodes
The Dodecanese is a group of twelve islands, in south-eastern Aegean. Kos and especially Rhodes are the most important islands of Dodecanese, in terms of wine production Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands, has a winemaking history that dates back to antiquity. The island’s big port was ideal to create the best conditions for the wine exports, like the case of Malvasia wine, which was famous in the island.The island produces a variety of wines, with Mandilaria being a prominent red varietal. Mandilaria wines are typically robust and full-bodied, featuring dark fruit flavors and a hint of spice. Rhodes is also known for its Athiri and Kotsifali grapes. Athiri produces light, aromatic white wines with citrus and floral notes, while Kotsifali contributes to rich, flavorful reds often blended with Mandilaria. Sweet Muscat (Muscat of Rhodes or Muscat Blanc) gives also PDO wines in the island both for fortified wines or wines from sundried grapes. A lot of French varieties dominate in the island’s vineyards as well
Photo Credit: Wines of Greece - Rhodes
North Aegean - Samos
Samos, renowned for its sweet wines, is particularly famous for its Muscat varieties. The island’s Muscat of Samos is a highly esteemed sweet wine known for its intense aromatics, with flavors of orange blossom, apricot, and honey. This wine is produced using a technique that involves partially drying the grapes to concentrate their sugars, resulting in a luscious, rich wine.
The wines of the Aegean Islands are a testament to the region’s rich history, diverse terroirs, and innovative spirit. From the volcanic soils of Santorini to the sweet Muscats of Samos, each island offers a unique expression of its environment and cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring the islands or enjoying a bottle at home, the wines of the Aegean Islands provide a flavorful glimpse into one of Greece’s most enchanting wine regions.
Photo Credit : Wines of Greece - Samos Vineyards
The Aegean Islands' wines are celebrated not only for their unique and one-of-a-kind flavors and styles but also for their deep connection to the islands' cultural and historical contexts. Whether you’re sipping a crisp Assyrtiko in Santorini or savoring a sweet Muscat from Samos, the wines of the Aegean Islands offer a distinctive and unforgettable tasting experience
For more information you can visit www.winesofgreece.org, or follow Wine of Greece on Instagram here or Facebook at Wines of Greece
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This article reflects the research, writing, and personal experiences of Angela Aiello, also known as Super Wine Girl. As a respected and award-winning writer, educator, TV host, and industry professional, Angela has tasted over 15,000 wines throughout her career, traveled to more than 14 countries to study wine, worked a vintage in South Africa, and founded and sold the largest wine club in Canada. She also opened and taught at a wine school in Toronto for over eight years. Angela collaborates with various regions and brands to highlight their stories on her website and in other publications. While her tasting notes and wine reviews remain independent and authentically her own, it is important to note that this article may be sponsored.
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