Exploring the Enchanting Island of Santorini with Friends

A Toast to Santorini's Bounty

Today was a day dedicated to indulging in the finer things Santorini has to offer, from the exquisite wines the island is known for to the delicate artistry of its local crafts. I set out with my friends, ready to immerse ourselves in the flavors and textures that define this unique destination. It’s amazing to think that just a few days ago, Pieter and Alessia were here with me, but I am happy to share these experiences with my friends as well!


The day began with a hearty breakfast at Nikolas, a local favorite. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Greek coffee filled the air, a perfect start before diving into our wine adventure. I opted for the traditional Dakos, a barley rusk topped with tomatoes, feta, and capers, while my friends chose the tomato balls, a Santorini specialty. Each bite was a burst of fresh, local flavors, setting the stage for the day ahead.


Our first stop was Santorini Wine Adventure Tours. The tour promised an exploration of the island’s unique viticulture, shaped by its volcanic soil and climate. As someone who appreciates history and the art of winemaking, I was eager to learn about Santorini's ancient wine traditions, dating back over 3,500 years. The tour guide explained how the island's vineyards have thrived since the Minoan civilization, surviving volcanic eruptions and phylloxera infestations to produce distinctive wines. It’s fascinating how the volcanic soil, combined with the island's hot, dry climate, gives Santorini wines their unique character. The vines are cultivated in a traditional basket method, known as kouloura, to protect them from strong winds and intense sun.

Wine is bottled poetry.

We visited three wineries, each offering a glimpse into the diverse world of Santorini wines. First up was Boutari Winery Santorini, a pioneer in Greek winemaking. Founded in 1879, Boutari has played a significant role in the resurgence of Santorini's vineyards since establishing its winery here in 1989. The winery itself is a stunning white-domed structure, blending seamlessly with the island's landscape. We sampled their renowned Kallisti and Kallisti Reserve, learning about the innovative techniques used to bring out the depth and complexity of Santorini's terroir. The tour included a walk through their private vineyard, where they cultivate local grape varieties like Assyrtiko, Aidani, and Athiri. I learned that Boutari was the first winery in Greece to open its doors to the public for organized wine tasting and tours back in 1990. I purchased a bottle of Kallisti Reserve to bring back home to Pieter, as I know he would enjoy it.


Next, we headed to Santo Wines, a cooperative of Santorini winegrowers. Established in 1947, Santo Wines is dedicated to supporting local viticulture and sustainable farming practices. Their winery boasts breathtaking views of the caldera, providing a stunning backdrop for wine tasting. We sampled their Santorini Assyrtiko, a crisp white wine with aromas of citrus fruits and a distinct minerality. I learned that Santo Wines produces some of the highest quality wines in the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) of Santorini Island. We also tasted their Nykteri, a traditional night wine known for its strength and richness. The views here were breathtaking, and I could see why Santorini is such a popular destination. I made sure to snag a bottle of their Santorini Selection Cuvee to enjoy later.


Our final winery visit was to Boutari Winery Santorini, where we indulged in more of the island's exquisite wines. I was particularly captivated by the Vinsanto, a sweet dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes. Its rich, amber color and complex flavors of honey and dried fruits were a perfect ending to our wine tasting journey. I discovered that Vinsanto is an ancient winemaking tradition in Santorini, dating back thousands of years. It must be made predominantly from the Assyrtiko grape, with smaller amounts of Athiri and Aidani. The grapes are dried in the sun for 12-14 days to concentrate their natural sugars and acids.


After our wine tours, we decided to explore the charming village of Oia. The narrow streets, lined with whitewashed buildings and vibrant bougainvillea, were a delight to wander through. We stumbled upon The Silk Shop, a boutique showcasing exquisite silk garments and accessories. As someone with an interest in interior design, I appreciated the shop's focus on natural fabrics and elegant craftsmanship. I ended up purchasing a beautiful silk scarf with jewel tones, a perfect souvenir to remind me of Santorini's vibrant colors. The shop assistant told me that the shop used to be an old bakery. It’s amazing how the island has repurposed its spaces while maintaining its unique charm.


As evening approached, we made our way to Armeni Restaurant for a late lunch. Located in Armeni Bay, just below Oia, this traditional fish tavern is accessible by boat from Ammoudi Bay or by a steep walk down the cliffside. We opted for the boat, enjoying a short ride around the caldera with stunning views of Oia perched above. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and relaxed atmosphere. We savored grilled octopus, shrimp saganaki, and a variety of local mezes, all while enjoying the sea breeze and the sound of the waves.


For dinner, we headed back to Pyrgos and dined at Karma Greek Restaurant. This charming restaurant, nestled in a cozy courtyard, offered a modern twist on traditional Greek cuisine. We started with the Three Dip Combination, sampling tzatziki, eggplant dip, and hummus. For our main courses, we indulged in the Mastelo Lamb and Greek stuffed calamari, each dish bursting with flavor and authenticity. I must say, the lamb was cooked to perfection!


As the sun began to set, we found a spot to watch the sky transform into a canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with wine, silk, and culinary delights. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and richness of Santorini with my friends. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Ancient Thera, Kamari Beach, and Perissa. I'm particularly excited to see the ancient ruins and learn more about the island's history. I think I'll also make sure to pack my forgotten swimwear!


Even though there were some earthquakes reported today in the Cyclades region, thankfully we didn’t feel any tremors here in Santorini! It’s just another reminder of the island’s volcanic origins and its ever-changing landscape.