SANTO WINES

 

The Association of Thera Cooperatives - Santo Wines was founded in its original form in 1911, as the "Thera Wine Production Defence Fund". Today it is one of the most dynamic Cooperatives in Greece and Europe with 1200 members. In 2012 Santo was presented as one of the best practices in the framework of the European Union's "Support for Agricultural Cooperatives" programme at an event held in Brussels.

The power of collectivity, solidarity, equality and self-responsibility are the ingredients that have contributed to SANTO's success. The activity of the Association embraces the authentic agricultural tradition of Santorini: with the brand SANTO WINES the excellent Santorini PDO wines, which are the battering ram of Greek wine exports internationally, and local products such as Santorini PDO Tomataki, Santorini PDO Fava and capers - as well as products derived from them - under the umbrella of SANTO.

Throughout its course, the work of the Association has been of catalytic importance for the protection and promotion of Thera's agricultural production, through the preservation of farming traditions, the defence of the interests of local farmers and the sustainable development of the local society.In a place with excessive tourist development, the commitment to agricultural production, especially in the extreme climatic conditions found in Santorini, is a constant challenge. Through the recognition that Thira products now enjoy around the world, the Association has created an incentive for older people to continue and younger people to follow this special tradition.

Specifically for wine, the SANTO WINES range includes some of the most award-winning labels of the Greek vineyard: Santorini Assyrtiko, Nychteri and Vinsanto. Behind the success lies a huge effort and investment that starts from the vineyard.The Association's specialised Research and Development department aims to continuously improve cultivation techniques and maintains a nursery of indigenous varieties, the study and experimental cultivation of which ensures the preservation of the biodiversity of the Thira vineyard.

With an eye on international trends, while maintaining unchanged the authenticity of the volcanic island that is one of the most recognizable brands of Greece worldwide, the Union dares to innovate. In such a context, SANTO WINES' Standard Organic Vineyard offers its single-vineyard organic labels (Athiri, Aedani, Mavrotragano), while the launch of Santo Sparkling, the first sparkling wine made from Assyrtiko using the Transfer method - followed recently by the rosé version - brought to the fore a cosmopolitan approach to Santorini wine, aimed at premium consumers, in addition to traditional oenophiles.

The new era finds SANTO with confidence, optimism and most importantly, a growth strategy. Offering an authentic, experiential gastronomic experience against the backdrop of unparalleled views of the Caldera, the Union's wine tourism centre welcomes more than 600,000 visitors from every corner of the globe, making it one of the world's leading wine tourism destinations.