Explore Natural, Organic and Biodynamic Wines of Greece

Explore Natural, Organic and Biodynamic Wines of Greece: A Unique Wine Tasting Experience in Athens

The “Explore Natural, Organic and Biodynamic Wines of Greece” tour offers an engaging journey into Greece’s lesser-known but highly distinctive wine styles. Priced at $33.71 per person and lasting approximately one hour, this experience takes place in Athens at a centrally located venue. It is designed for those curious about indigenous Greek grape varieties and the methods used to produce organic, biodynamic, and natural wines. With a maximum group size of 12 travelers, this small-scale tasting promises an intimate and personalized introduction to Greece’s wine future.

The tour features a knowledgeable guide, an ex-sommelier specializing in these wine styles, who provides detailed explanations about production techniques and answers questions freely. The tasting includes six different wines made from ancient Greek indigenous grapes, often aged in amphorae, stainless steel, or cement, with some having a touch of oak. Alongside the wines, small ancient nibbles, extra virgin olive oil, and concentrated grape must add to the sensory experience. This tour provides a genuine insight into Greece’s ancient wine traditions, now thriving in modern, sustainable formats.

Key Points

• Affordable yet exclusive, priced at $33.71 per person, with a one-hour duration
• Focuses on organic, biodynamic, and natural wines made from ancient indigenous grape varieties
• Led by an ex-sommelier guide with specialized knowledge of local wine production
• Tastes six carefully selected wines, including limited-bottling varieties
• Includes small ancient nibbles, olive oil, and grape must for a complete tasting experience
• Held in a small, intimate venue in Athens with a maximum of 12 participants

The Venue and Meeting Point in Athens

This tour starts at Themistokleous 23-25 in Athens, a location easily accessible near public transportation. The small size of the venue and the intimate setting contribute to a cozy and engaging atmosphere. The meeting point is conveniently located, and the activity concludes at the original start location, making logistics simple and stress-free for travelers.

The Special Focus on Ancient Greek Grape Varieties

Greek wine’s unique character stems from its 340+ indigenous ancient grape varieties. This tour emphasizes wines made exclusively from these local grapes, which Greece has historically produced using traditional methods. The land’s dry winds and hot days naturally support the cultivation of these grapes, enabling the creation of wines that distinguish themselves from more common styles.

The wines showcased are produced using amphorae (clay jars), stainless steel, and cement vessels, with some wines aged in small oak barrels and bottle-aged for extended periods. Certain bottles are limited editions—some as low as 200 bottles—and are available only in the store for purchase or shipment. This adds an element of rarity and exclusivity to the tasting.

What to Expect During the Tasting

Participants try six different wines covering a range of styles: organic, biodynamic, natural, and orange wines. These wines are notable for their distinctive flavors and production methods, reflecting Greece’s ancient traditions. Alongside each wine, small ancient nibbles and high-quality extra virgin olive oil are served, providing a taste of Greece’s culinary heritage.

The expert guide explains the production processes in detail, including insights into the science and knowledge behind each wine. This educational component is especially valuable for those interested in sustainable and traditional winemaking.

The Guide’s Expertise and Approach

The guide is a former sommelier, bringing a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the experience. Travelers appreciate how the guide’s explanations clarify the differences between wine styles and production techniques. This expertise makes the tour more than just a tasting; it becomes an educational journey into Greece’s ancient winemaking practices adapted to modern biodynamic and organic standards.

The Wines: Limited Bottlings and Unique Flavors

Many of the wines tasted are produced in small quantities, with limited bottling—some as few as 200 bottles—making them exclusive and rare to find outside of this experience. The wines are made with a minimal intervention approach, emphasizing natural fermentation and authentic flavors.

This focus on authenticity and tradition sets this tour apart from standard wine tastings, offering a sample of Greece’s promising future in the global wine scene. The wines’ distinctive profile appeals to enthusiasts eager to explore unconventional and traditionally crafted wines.

Food and Pairings: Ancient Nibbles and Olive Oil

Complementing the wine tasting, participants enjoy small ancient nibbles that evoke Greece’s culinary past. These include extra virgin olive oil and concentrated grape must, which enhance the tasting experience. The pairing highlights Greece’s agricultural richness and local flavor profiles, adding an extra dimension to each sip.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The maximum group size of 12 ensures a personalized and relaxed environment. The small venue fosters a close-knit atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and interactions with the guide are meaningful. This setup is ideal for both wine novices and seasoned enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of Greece’s indigenous wines.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Advance booking is recommended, typically 22 days in advance. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility for travelers. The price of $33.71 offers good value considering the quality of wines and the educational insight provided.

The Experience Provider: CRU’s Expertise

Operated by CRU, the experience is designed specifically to cater to visitors interested in Greek products. The host, Anton, emphasizes local wine secrets and is praised for excellent knowledge and friendly hosting. The carefully curated selection of wines and the focus on ancient and modern techniques make this tour a standout among Athens’ wine experiences.

Final Thoughts on the Greek Wine Journey

This tour offers a rare glimpse into Greece’s native wine styles and ancient grape varieties, presented by an expert guide in a small, intimate setting. It is a perfect choice for wine lovers seeking authenticity and educational value, or for those curious about Greece’s wine heritage.

While the venue is small, it turns out to be an advantage, fostering personalized attention and deep dives into wine production. The inclusion of small bites and rare wines adds to the overall appeal. This experience suits visitors looking for a short, enriching introduction to Greece’s biodynamic and natural wines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $33.71 per person.

How long does the tasting last?
The experience lasts approximately one hour.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Themistokleous 23-25 in Athens.

Is food included?
Yes, small ancient nibbles, extra virgin olive oil, and concentrated grape must are served alongside the wines.

What wines are tasted?
Six distinctive organic, biodynamic, natural, or orange wines made from Greece’s indigenous grapes are included.

Can I buy the wines I taste?
Yes, some wines are available for purchase directly in the store or for shipment.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 12 guests ensures a personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Yes, the experience is accessible and designed to accommodate various levels of wine knowledge.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Who leads the tour?
The tour is led by Anton, an ex-sommelier with expertise in Greece’s native wines and traditional production methods.

Is this experience accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

This Greek wine tasting tour provides a focused, educational, and delicious exploration of Greece’s ancient indigenous grape varieties and modern organic winemaking techniques. It’s a rare opportunity to taste limited-bottling wines and learn from a seasoned expert, all within an intimate setting that encourages curiosity and enjoyment.