Wine from Ikaria – Wild, authentic and full of character
Ikaria, the “island of longevity,” is known not only for its relaxed lifestyle and breathtaking nature – the island’s wine also contributes to its exceptional quality of life. On the steep, wind-swept hills of the Aegean, ancient grape varieties grow on poor soils, giving the wines of Ikaria a truly distinctive and wild character. Far away from mass tourism and industrial production, handcrafted wines with history – and soul – are created here.
An ancient wine tradition
Winemaking on Ikaria dates back to antiquity. Even Homer mentioned the famous “Pramnios wine,” which is believed to have originated from this region. Then as now, wine is not just a drink but an integral part of culture, daily life, and celebrations.
The volcanic soils, Mediterranean climate, and mountainous terrain provide ideal conditions for natural, traditional viticulture. Almost every family has its own vines and produces wine in the same way their ancestors have done for hundreds of years.
Recommended wineries on Ikaria
Afianes Wines in Profitis Ilias
Tradition and Innovation on Ikaria
The Afianes Winery, located in the Raches region in the north of Ikaria, is one of the island’s best-known wineries. The Afianes family combines ancient winemaking methods with modern oenology to create wines with a distinctive character. Part of the production still takes place in clay amphorae, just as it did in ancient Greece.
Two indigenous grape varieties of Ikaria are at the heart of the winery: Fokiano, a powerful red grape with fruity and spicy aromas, and Begleri, a rare white variety producing fresh and floral wines.
The winery is also a cultural meeting place. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and explore a small wine and folklore museum that presents the island’s long winemaking tradition. In summer, concerts and events take place in the winery’s own amphitheatre, overlooking the vineyards and the Aegean Sea. Afianes uniquely combines wine, history and culture.
Tel. +30 697 789 3731
https://afianeswines.gr/en/
Karimalis Winery in Pigi
Sustainable, Organic, Terroir-Focused and Culinary
Located in Pigi, Ikaria, Karimalis Winery is a family-run estate emphasizing sustainability, biodiversity, and organic cultivation. All wines are organically grown and clearly reflect the island’s diverse terroirs.
Highlights include the Karimalis Red Blend, a balanced red wine with notes of red fruit, herbs, and a hint of salt, and the Natural Orange Wine, unfiltered, spontaneously fermented, with a distinctive character for true wine lovers.
Visitors can tour the vineyards, enjoy tastings, and experience the tranquil landscape. The winery also offers local dishes and traditional cuisine that pair perfectly with the wines, creating an authentic culinary experience. Karimalis combines modern oenology, natural viticulture, and gastronomy, exemplifying Ikaria’s authentic wine tradition.
Tel. +302275031945 · +306975748490
https://www.ikarianwine.gr/
Tsantiris Winery –
Proespera
Traditional, Handcrafted and Organic
Located in Proespera, Ikaria, Tsantiris Winery represents authentic, handcrafted winemaking. Most wines are produced entirely by hand, often for the local market, preserving their distinctive character.
The focus is on traditional Ikarian grape varieties, especially Fokiano, producing robust red wines with rustic charm. The winery also makes liqueur wines, strong and sweet, perfect to finish a long Ikarian meal.
All wines are organically cultivated without chemical pesticides, reflecting the winery’s natural and traditional approach. Visitors can enjoy tastings and tour the workshop, gaining an authentic insight into Ikarian winemaking. Tsantiris embodies honest, natural, and tradition-focused wines.
Telefon: +30 2275 110275
https://tsantiriswines.gr/
Wine tastings – What you should try
All wineries offer wine tastings. When visiting, make sure to try:
Fokiano
The main red grape of Ikaria. Powerful, warm, with dark fruit and spicy notes. The island has been famous for it since ancient times.
Begleri
A rare white grape variety that grows almost exclusively here. Fresh, lively and floral.
Amphora wines
For lovers of traditional winemaking, these natural wines fermented in clay amphorae are a truly unique experience.
