Samos Wineries
Samos is known for its production of sweet wines made from the Muscat Blanc grape variety. Here are some notable wineries on the island of Samos:
Samos Cooperative Winery
This is the main winery on the island and one of the largest cooperatives in Greece. It was established in 1934 and is responsible for producing the famous Samos sweet wines. The winery offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the winemaking process and sample their different Muscat-based wines.
The Samos Cooperative Winery, also known as the Union of Winemaking Cooperatives of Samos. The winery is located in the village of Malagari, near the town of Karlovasi.
The cooperative consists of over 2,000 growers who cultivate vineyards across the island. They primarily specialize in the production of sweet wines made from the Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains grape variety, which thrives in the Samos region. The cooperative’s vineyards benefit from the island’s volcanic soil, Mediterranean climate, and ample sunshine, resulting in the production of high-quality grapes.
At the Samos Cooperative Winery, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of Samos wines. Guided tours are available, allowing guests to explore the vineyards, cellar, and production facilities. Visitors can witness the traditional methods of winemaking, including the sun-drying technique used for the production of the renowned Samos Vin Doux dessert wine.
Tastings are also offered, where visitors can sample a variety of Samos wines, including different expressions of the sweet Muscat wines. The cooperative produces a range of styles, from lightly sweet to lusciously sweet, showcasing the versatility of the Muscat grape. The wines are characterized by their aromatic profiles, with notes of citrus, peach, apricot, and floral nuances.
The Samos Cooperative Winery plays a significant role in supporting the local economy and preserving the winemaking heritage of Samos. It has garnered international recognition and numerous awards for its wines, contributing to the island’s reputation as a quality wine-producing region. A visit to the Samos Cooperative Winery offers a glimpse into the rich winemaking tradition of Samos and the opportunity to taste exceptional Muscat wines crafted with passion and expertise.
Samos Vin Doux
This winery specializes in the production of sweet wines, particularly the renowned Samos Vin Doux dessert wine. They have vineyards in different parts of the island, allowing them to capture the unique characteristics of Samos terroir. Visitors can taste their wines and learn about the winemaking process at their facilities.
Samos Vin Doux is a famous sweet wine produced on the Greek island of Samos. It is known for its rich flavor, luscious sweetness, and distinctive character. Samos Vin Doux is made from Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains grapes, which are grown on the terraced vineyards of Samos, benefiting from the island’s unique climate and terroir.
The production of Samos Vin Doux follows a traditional winemaking process that has been perfected over the years. The grapes are carefully hand-picked at the optimal stage of ripeness, usually in late August or early September. After harvesting, the grapes are pressed to extract the juice, which is then fermented at controlled temperatures to preserve the natural sweetness and aromatic qualities of the Muscat grapes.
What sets Samos Vin Doux apart is its aging process. The wine is aged in oak barrels or stainless steel tanks for a specific period, allowing it to develop complexity and depth of flavor. During this aging process, the wine acquires its characteristic golden color and a bouquet of floral, fruity, and honeyed aromas.
Samos Vin Doux is known for its smooth and velvety texture, with flavors that range from ripe peaches and apricots to honey and citrus notes. It has a balanced sweetness that is not overpowering, making it an excellent dessert wine or a standalone treat. The wine is typically enjoyed chilled, enhancing its refreshing and aromatic qualities.
The reputation of Samos Vin Doux extends beyond Greece, as it is highly regarded internationally. It has received numerous accolades and awards for its exceptional quality, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the winemakers on the island of Samos.
Visitors to Samos have the opportunity to explore the vineyards and wineries that produce Samos Vin Doux. Some wineries offer guided tours and tastings, providing insights into the winemaking process and the chance to sample different vintages of this beloved sweet wine.
Samos Vin Doux is a true representation of the rich winemaking heritage of Samos and a testament to the unique characteristics of the island’s terroir. It is a must-try for wine enthusiasts and a delightful way to experience the flavors and traditions of this beautiful Greek island.
Vakakis
Vakakis Winery is a renowned winery located on the beautiful island of Samos in Greece. Situated in the picturesque village of Malagari, the winery has a long history of producing exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region.
The winery is known for its dedication to quality and tradition, using traditional winemaking techniques combined with modern technology to craft wines of exceptional character and flavor. The vineyards are carefully cultivated, and only the finest grapes are selected for production, ensuring the highest quality wines.
Vakakis Winery specializes in producing the famous Samos sweet wines, particularly the renowned Muscat dessert wines. The Muscat grapes thrive in the island’s rich volcanic soil and Mediterranean climate, resulting in wines that are aromatic, luscious, and full of character. The winery also produces a range of dry white wines, red wines, and rosés, offering a diverse selection for every palate.
Visitors to Vakakis Winery have the opportunity to tour the vineyards and the winemaking facilities, gaining insight into the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of Samos wines. The winery offers tastings where visitors can sample a variety of wines, guided by knowledgeable staff who are passionate about sharing their expertise and love for Samos wines.
The winery also features a welcoming wine shop where visitors can purchase their favorite bottles to take home as a memento of their visit to Samos. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or simply enjoy exploring new flavors, a visit to Vakakis Winery is a must for any wine lover visiting Samos. It is an opportunity to experience the rich winemaking heritage of the island and savor the exquisite flavors that have made Samos wines famous worldwide.
Nopera
The origins and principles of NOPERA winery trace back to the 19th century when the Nopera family migrated from Malta to Samos. Over time, they cultivated a remarkable sweet wine made from the Muscat grape variety, renowned for its exceptional quality. Their wine gained recognition and was even exported to prestigious clients like the renowned French company Noilly Pratt of Marseilles, famous for its vermouth.
For many years, all grape growers on the island were required by law to deliver their harvest to the local cooperative, as per a legislation dating back to 1934. However, in 2013, Evagelos Mitilinaios from the Mitilinaios family envisioned a revival of the old winery and worked to change the legislation. This pivotal moment marked the establishment of NOPERA as the first private winery on the island, paving the way for the opening of other wineries in Samos.
Today, NOPERA Winery stands as a testament to Samos’ winemaking heritage, offering a diverse range of high-quality wines crafted with passion and dedication.