While Santorini has long captivated the world with its Assyrtiko and stunning caldera views, a quieter, granite-strewn island in the northern Cyclades is rapidly gaining recognition among wine enthusiasts: Tinos. This emerging wine region is drawing attention for its unique terroir, a new generation of dedicated winemakers, and the revitalization of ancient, indigenous grape varieties.
What Makes Tinos Special?
The winemaking on Tinos is defined by its dramatic and challenging landscape. The island is rugged, hilly, and characterized by strong, persistent meltemi winds and an arid climate. The secret to its unique wines, however, lies beneath the surface: the soil is infertile and heavily marked by large, round granitic boulders known as volakes.
Vines here are often trained low to the ground on terraces, a traditional bush form that protects the grapes from the intense sun and strong winds. The poor, granitic soil provides excellent drainage and a distinct minerality to the wines, while the coastal winds help keep the vineyards healthy and naturally organic. The result is high-acid, character-filled wines that offer a profound sense of place.
Must-Try Local Grape Varieties:
Tinos winemakers work with a fascinating array of local and indigenous grapes, some found almost nowhere else.
Assyrtiko: While famous in Santorini, Tinos' granite soil version of Assyrtiko offers a different profile, often described as more elegant and mineral-driven, with bright acidity and citrus notes.
Mavrotragano: This rare red grape variety produces elegant, full-bodied red wines with rich fruit flavors and good aging potential. It is highly sought after by red wine lovers.
Potamissi (Aspro Potamisi / Mavro Potamisi) & Rozaki: These are ancient, little-known indigenous varieties that several boutique wineries are reviving, offering unique white and rosé wines with distinct, wild characteristics.
Winemakers to Look Out For:
A small but passionate group of producers is leading the Tinos wine renaissance, blending ancient methods with modern techniques.
T-Oinos Winery & Vineyards
One of the most acclaimed wineries on the island, T-Oinos is known for its high-quality Assyrtiko and Mavrotragano, which have garnered international recognition.
Domaine de Kalathas Winery
Run by French vigneron Jérôme Binda, this biodynamic and certified organic winery focuses on creating natural wines from rare indigenous grapes like Rozaki and Potamissi, showcasing the wild essence of the island's terroir.
Volacus Winery
Named after the granite boulders surrounding its vineyards, Volacus gained national acclaim shortly after its first harvest in 2016 for its crisp white Malagousia and elegant red Mavrotragano wines.
For wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic Greek island wine experience beyond the well-trodden path, Tinos offers a compelling and exciting new chapter in Cycladic viticulture.