Assyrtiko

Assyrtiko is a white grape variety native to the Greek island of Santorini. It is the island’s most prominent grape and the foundation of most dry Santorini whites as well as the island’s renowned dessert wine, Vinsanto. The variety is also cultivated in other parts of Greece and in small plantings around the world.

Viticulture and terroir: Assyrtiko is well adapted to Santorini’s volcanic soils and strong winds. Vines are often trained on pergolas to shield grapes from sun and wind, a tradition that contributes to natural acidity retention. The grape is late-ripening and, in warm climates, maintains high acidity due to its thick skin and mineral character. It yields moderate to low and can produce wines with pronounced mineral notes.

Wine characteristics: Dry Assyrtiko wines are typically pale to medium straw in color and exhibit high acidity with citrus, green apple, and stone fruit flavors, often with flinty or saline mineral notes. Many examples show a full body and a crisp finish; with age, they can develop complexity, including honey and almond notes.

Other uses and regions: In Santorini, Vinsanto is produced from dried Assyrtiko (often blended with Aidani and Athiri), resulting in a rich, amber dessert wine. Outside Santorini, Assyrtiko is grown in other Greek regions such as Attica and the Peloponnese, and in small quantities in other countries as part of mixed or experimental plantings.