Santorini is part of the island complex of Cyclades, located in the South Aegean.
Surface area:
Location:
36° 28' 40'' N.
Longitude:
25° 29' 13'' E.
The combination of ferromagnesian rocks and pumice is what forms the characteristic and unique volcanic soil of Santorini. Pumice stones keep the moisture in the soil, alleviating the stress during summer. The large and small ferromagnesian rocks give a special mineral character to the wines of Santorini.
Santorini:
A Museum Vineyard
The Varieties:
An almost 3000-year-old vineyard like that of Santorini has many varieties—over 50 have been counted, many of which are indigenous. Assyrtiko, the most important indigenous variety, covers 70% of the vineyards on the island. In recent years, due to its high quality, it has been planted in many vineyards across Greece and beyond. Another great variety is Mavrotragano (red), also native to the vineyard, which is also now planted beyond Santorini.
Pruning
The pruning technique is both ancient and unique. One type is called the "giristi". It is applied in the places that are most exposed to the wind. With this pruning type the grapes are also protected against the heavy sunshine in the summer months, being covered by this leafy "canopy". The vines that that are pruned in this style, resemble a stork's nest.
The special soil of Santorini protected the vineyard from phylloxera. It is a rare vineyard that since ancient times has been renewed with stolons (runners), resulting in vines whose age often exceeds 100 years. We could argue that this is a vineyard with no date of birth.
The Soil
The volcanic soil of Santorini, which gives the unique character and high quality to the wine, is one main reason why this vineyard carries the importance of a Museum.
The soil is a mixture of volcanic ash and pumice. Throughout the entire length of the island, both small and large rocks composed of magnesium and ferrous iron are encountered, as well as small and large tephra deposits, all of which are of volcanic origin. The pumice (consisting of small to very small porous stones) extends from the surface, to considerable depths.
Pezoules Oias
Pezoules Oias are stone-built terraces that shaped both the land and the culture of Oia. Built by hand using volcanic stone, these traditional dry walls transformed the island's steep, arid slopes into fertile farmland, showing remarkable ingenuity and a deep understanding of the landscape. By slowing down rainwater and reducing erosion, they helped retain vital moisture, supporting vineyards, grains, and olives in Santorini's harsh climate. More than simple farming structures, pezoules are a living heritage, preserved not only for their beauty but also for their biodiversity and the timeless wisdom they embody in sustainable land use.
