Winery Overview & History
Founded in 1903 in the heart of Santorini, Estate Argyros stands as one of Greece’s most respected and enduring wineries. Now managed by the fourth generation of the Argyros family, the estate continues to honor the island’s winemaking traditions while embracing modern precision. Its mission remains unchanged for over a century — to express the authentic volcanic identity of Santorini through wines of purity, depth, and timeless elegance.
Estate Argyros is celebrated for its mastery of Assyrtiko and its devotion to old vines — some exceeding 200 years of age — cultivated with meticulous care and minimal intervention.
Vineyard Location & Terroir
The estate spans over 120 hectares across Episkopi, Pyrgos, and Megalochori, three of Santorini’s most prized vineyard zones. The vines grow on volcanic soils rich in pumice, ash, and lava, which naturally resist phylloxera and promote excellent drainage. The region’s strong Aegean winds and intense sunlight are balanced by the cool maritime breezes, producing grapes of remarkable concentration and mineral freshness.
The unique kouloura basket-trained vines, shaped close to the ground, protect the clusters from the harsh island climate — a symbol of Santorini’s resilience and ingenuity.
Grape Varieties & Wine Style
Estate Argyros is best known for its benchmark expression of Assyrtiko, a grape that reflects the tension and salinity of Santorini’s volcanic terroir. The winery also produces limited quantities of Aidani and Athiri for its elegant blends, as well as rare Vinsanto dessert wines crafted from sun-dried grapes.
The style is defined by vibrant acidity, pronounced minerality, and an exceptional capacity to age. Each wine captures the island’s light — pure, structured, and eternally fresh.
Signature Wines
- Estate Argyros Assyrtiko — A benchmark Santorini wine showcasing citrus, smoke, and sea-salt minerality with firm, linear structure.
- Estate Argyros Cuvee Monsignori — From old vines over 200 years old, this is a concentrated, age-worthy expression of volcanic Assyrtiko.
- Estate Argyros Vinsanto 20 Years — A luxurious sweet wine aged in oak, combining honey, caramel, and dried apricot notes with stunning balance.
Exceptional vintages include 2016, 2018, 2019, and 2021, each reflecting the harmony of Santorini’s extreme terroir.
Winemaking & Philosophy
Grapes are hand-harvested at dawn to preserve their natural brightness. Fermentation occurs in a mix of stainless steel and French oak barrels, followed by aging on lees for texture and complexity. The estate practices sustainable viticulture and employs gravity-flow winemaking, reducing intervention while maintaining precision and purity.
Every decision — from vineyard to bottle — is guided by respect for the land and dedication to quality. Estate Argyros stands as a bridge between Santorini’s ancient past and its dynamic future.
Visitor & Contact Information
Address: Episkopi Gonia, Santorini 84700, Greece
Phone: +30 22860 31489
Website: www.estateargyros.com
Email: info@estateargyros.com
Visiting: Open year-round for tastings and guided tours by appointment. Private and premium experiences available.
*Photo courtesy of santorini-view.com