Private Wine Tour in 3 Wineries with 12 Wine Tastings and Tapas

A taste of Greek wine heritage combined with stunning vistas, this Private Wine Tour in Santorini offers a memorable experience for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Priced at $267.05 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours, the tour takes you through 3 distinct wineries, each showcasing the island’s unique viticultural charm. The tour is designed for small groups—up to 15 people over 16—making each experience intimate and personalized. Expect 12 wine tastings, complemented by local cheese, olives, and tapas, with round-trip air-conditioned transfers included.

While the tour’s price might seem steep for some, the emphasis on quality, stunning views, and expert guidance makes it a worthwhile option for those seeking a deeper appreciation of Santorini’s wines. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply exploring Greek wine culture, this experience delivers both education and breathtaking scenery. The only potential consideration is that the tour may feel somewhat fast-paced, especially for those wanting more time at each stop, but the overall experience remains highly praised.

Key Points

• Includes 12 wine tastings across 3 wineries with a knowledgeable guide
• Visiting Art Space, Estate Argyros, and Venetsanos Winery on the Santorini caldera
• All transfers are in an air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle
• Tastings are paired with local cheese, olives, and tapas
• The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a compact yet comprehensive experience
• Small group experience with up to 15 guests

Visiting Art Space: Santorini’s Unique Wine Museum and Art Gallery

The journey begins at Art Space in Exo Gonia, a charming venue blending a wine museum and art gallery housed within ancient volcanic caves. As one of the oldest wineries in Santorini, its historic cave winery provides a glimpse into the island’s wine-making traditions. The visit includes a guided tour of the caves, where the organic wines are crafted with careful attention.

Local artwork displayed at Art Space adds a cultural touch, making this stop as much about art as wine. You get to taste some exceptional organic wines, which set the tone for the rest of the tour. The admission is free, and this stop lasts about an hour, offering a relaxed start to your wine adventure.

Exploring Estate Argyros: A Vineyard Focused on Quality and Signature Wines

Next, the tour moves to Estate Argyros, renowned for its dedication to high-quality wines. Visitors explore the vineyard and cellars during a guided tour, which highlights the estate’s winemaking process. The focus here is on their signature Assyrtiko and Vinsanto wines, both celebrated internationally.

This stop provides a deeper insight into Santorini’s wine production and offers an opportunity to taste some of the most well-crafted wines on the island. The admission is included, and the tasting session lasts about an hour, giving enough time to appreciate the flavor profiles of each wine.

Venetsanos Winery: Clifftop Views and Gravity-Fed Production

The final stop is Venetsanos Winery, perched high on the caldera cliffs. Its gravity-fed production method is a highlight during the guided tour, showcasing innovative techniques that influence the wine’s character. As you taste their wines, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Santorini’s sunset—a picture-perfect ending.

The winery’s location offers a spectacular setting that enhances the tasting experience. The admission fee is included, with about an hour allocated for exploring the winery and sampling their wines.

Included Tastes and Snacks: A Complete Flavor Experience

Throughout the tour, 12 wine tastings are complemented by local cheese, olives, and snacks. The final winery also offers a platter of local tapas, adding a savory element to the tasting journey. There’s also mineral water available alongside the wines, helping to cleanse the palate.

This focus on pairing food and drink enhances the overall experience, making each tasting more memorable. The inclusion of tapas and snacks is often praised as a delightful addition that balances the wine’s richness.

Transportation and Group Size: Personal and Convenient

All transfers are provided in a modern Mercedes-Benz vehicle, ensuring comfortable and air-conditioned transport between venues. The private nature of the tour means your group is the only one participating, allowing for a personalized experience.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join. It’s a good option for those who prefer small groups and personal guidance over large, generic tours.

The Guide: Knowledge and Friendliness That Elevate the Experience

Multiple reviews emphasize the expertise and friendliness of the guides, with Nick (or Nikkou) being a standout. The guides generously share wine-making knowledge, local insights, and personal stories, which enrich the tour.

They also handle timing well, maintaining a pace that feels structured but not rushed. Many reviewers appreciate the welcoming attitude and willingness to answer questions, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Timing and Pacing: A Well-Organized 4-Hour Tour

The approximately 4-hour schedule allows for a comprehensive visit to all three wineries, with enough time for tastings, tours, and snacks. Review feedback suggests that some might find the pace a little quick, especially at each winery, but overall, the timing feels well-managed.

Travelers interested in more time at each location should plan accordingly, but the current structure offers a balanced overview of Santorini’s wine scene.

Views and Scenery: The Real Star of the Tour

One of the consistently praised aspects is the spectacular scenery at each stop, especially at Venetsanos Winery. The clifftop views overlooking the caldera provide a breathtaking backdrop for tasting wines. Many reviews highlight how these panoramic vistas elevate the experience, turning a wine tasting into a visual feast.

The sunset views from Venetsanos Winery are often described as gorgeous, making this stop a perfect photo opportunity and relaxing conclusion.

Cost and Value: A Premium Experience for Connoisseurs

At $267.05 per person, this tour is priced at a premium, reflecting the quality of wineries visited, guidance provided, and scenic settings. Some reviews mention that the tour could be slightly overpriced, especially compared to similar experiences, but most agree that the professional guidance and exclusive visits justify the cost.

The private group setting and inclusion of tapas, snacks, and round-trip transfers add to the perception of value, particularly for those seeking a premium, curated experience.

Cancellation and Booking Flexibility: Easy and Risk-Free

The tour offers free cancellation, allowing full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. This policy provides peace of mind when planning, especially given the small window for refunds.

Booking typically requires around 50 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among visitors seeking a personalized wine experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private wine tour appeals most to those who value personalized guidance, scenic beauty, and a comprehensive introduction to Santorini wines. It’s ideal for small groups, wine enthusiasts, and guests celebrating special occasions. The inclusion of local tapas and breathtaking views makes it particularly suited for travelers wanting a luxurious, relaxing experience.

While the pacing may be a concern for those wanting more time at each location, the overall balance of educational content, amazing scenery, and delicious wine makes this a standout choice in the Greek islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including visits to three wineries and tastings.

What is included in the price?
The price covers 12 wine tastings, local cheese and olives, tapas at the last winery, mineral water, guided tours, and round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

Are the wineries accessible for all visitors?
Details on physical accessibility are not specified, but the tour involves guided visits at historic caves and vineyards, which may include walking or standing.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
The tour is designed for most travelers, but primarily focuses on wine tasting, so it may not be ideal for children or those not interested in wine.

How many people can join this tour?
The tour accommodates up to 15 guests in a private setting, making it suitable for small groups or private parties.

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transportation between wineries is included in the air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its private setting, expert guidance from a knowledgeable sommelier, and the stunning views at each winery set it apart from larger, less personalized options.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 50 days ahead, indicating high demand and the importance of early planning.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The combination of tasting 12 wines, learning about Greek viticulture, and experiencing Santorini’s breathtaking scenery makes this tour a well-rounded, premium choice.