Santorini, Greece

When one sees the mesmerizing views of the Santorini caldera, with its sheer cliffs rising from the sea, wine may be the last thing on anyone's mind. However, there are nine native grape types on the island, including the well-known Assyrtiko. In an ancient settlement discovered in Akrotiri that was submerged by the volcanic explosion that destroyed half of the island, traces of this dry white wine were discovered. Santorini's wine production is unique in that young vines are twisted into a wreath shape with grapes growing in the middle to shield them from the chilly winds that sweep over the Aegean. These are shown in the intriguing Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum, which is located outside of Vothonas.

The wineries and vineyards of Santorini allow you to savour thousands of years of wine-making heritage while capturing all the authenticity of an island known for its cosmopolitan appeal. In Santorini's vineyards, more than 50 types of grapes are grown, with Assyrtiko being the most well-known (producing the crisp whites that have propelled Santorini onto the international wine map and attracted multiple awards). You'll also appreciate learning about Vinsanto, a sweet dessert wine with a PDO designation that is created from sun-dried grapes and served as a liqueur. But the tale of Santorini's wineries is also about the people who manage them and their customs, in addition to the grape varietals and local history (amphorae and wine-making tools have been discovered in the Prehistoric village of Akrotiri).

Tour and Location: Santorini Wine Tour, Vourvoulos, Fira 87 400 Greece