greece
Greek wine is rooted in ancient tradition yet brimming with modern energy, offering a mosaic of indigenous varieties like Assyrtiko, Xinomavro, and Agiorgitiko. Blending ancient varieties with modern precision to produce wines of character and place. Vassaltis Vineyards in Santorini exemplifies this, crafting mineral-driven Assyrtiko from volcanic soils with striking salinity and structure. As part of Greece’s new wave, Vassaltis showcases the potential of indigenous grapes and island terroir in world-class winemaking, redefining Greek wine on the global stage.
Meaning 'basalt' in Greek, Vassaltis is a leader in the contemporary wine seen in Santorini. Leaving London in 2010 to return home, Yannis Valambous embarked on an endeavour, part dream, part folly, to breathe new life into the vineyards he inherited from his father in Santorini. Assembling a wine team with experience working at top vineyards around the world, they transformed the vineyards and winery into a state-of-the-art cuverie. Experimenting with oak, controlled oxidation, and battonage, producing wines that are elegant, mineral with saline notes from the ocean influence.