Wines Santorini Estate Argyros - Vinsanto 12 Years Barrel Aged - 2002

Estate Argyros’ Vinsanto 12 Years Barrel Aged from the 2002 vintage is a remarkable expression of Santorini’s ancient winemaking tradition. Crafted from sun-dried white grapes, this lusciously sweet wine undergoes extended barrel ageing, as its name suggests, for a full twelve years. While the precise blend may vary, Vinsanto from Santorini is most commonly derived from local varieties such as Assyrtiko, Aidani, and Athiri, harvested late and then left to desiccate under the Aegean sun, which intensifies their natural sugar and flavour concentration. The lengthy maturation in barrels imparts complex aromas of dried fruits, caramelised nuts, honey, and sometimes a welcome oxidative note reminiscent of fine dessert wines.

Santorini, an island shaped by ancient volcanic activity, boasts one of the most distinctive terroirs in the world. The vines thrive on ashy, mineral-rich soils, sculpted by aeons of wind and sea spray, giving the wines their signature vibrancy and intense minerality. The region’s climate is hot and dry, with cooling maritime breezes and dramatic day-night temperature swings that help preserve acidity—a crucial feature in balancing the natural sweetness of Vinsanto. Viticulture here is heroic, with vines grown in low, basket-shaped kouloura to protect them from fierce Meltemi winds and conserve precious soil moisture. Santorini’s history of winemaking stretches back millennia, making its Vinsanto a genuine reflection of the island’s age-old ethos and resilience.

Vinsanto’s rich texture and multi-layered flavours pair beautifully with a range of desserts, including baklava, walnut pie, and fig or apricot tarts. It also harmonises with blue cheeses or foie gras, creating a memorable sweet-savoury interplay. For a truly regional experience, serve alongside local spoon sweets or pistachio-based pastries from the Aegean.

To appreciate its full aromatic complexity, pour Estate Argyros Vinsanto slightly chilled, ideally between 10-12°C. This temperature highlights both its freshness and its luscious, developed character. Allowing the wine to breathe in the glass will unlock deeper notes of spice, dried fruit, and honeyed elegance, making for a truly meditative tasting.