Venetsanos Winery: A New Approach to Assyrtiko Through Acacia Barrels

Saint John Acacia Barrel 2023, a PDO Santorini Assyrtiko wine that follows a less common aging path.

Venetsanos Winery continues to reveal new facets of the Santorini vineyard, presenting a new label defined by attention to detail and limited production.

The Vinification Process

The winemaking began with selected grapes from the vineyards of Megalochori. After careful static settling and the start of fermentation at controlled temperatures, the must was transferred to new 225-liter acacia barrels to complete fermentation.

The choice of this specific wood, instead of the classic oak, gives the wine a distinct character. The winery allowed it to evolve for a total of 18 months of maturation and aging on the lees. Bottling took place in May 2025, yielding only 800 bottles – a number that highlights the experimental and rare nature of this release.

Tasting Profile

In the glass, the wine displays a clear white-yellow color and a bouquet where the familiar aromas of citrus and grapefruit coexist with ripe pear. The presence of acacia is felt through subtle notes of chestnut, which add complexity without overshadowing the typical character of the variety. On the palate, the acidity remains refreshing, lending vibrancy to the wine’s full body, while the aftertaste is characterized by a balanced roundness.

A Rich History

The history of Venetsanos Winery is closely tied to the evolution of Santorini. Built in 1947, it was the first industrial-scale winery on the island, featuring a design that utilized the natural slope of the ground. This “gravity-based” operation allowed for production without the need for electricity at a time when resources were limited. Today, the winery remains a place where family tradition meets modern techniques, offering visitors a quiet look into the past and present of Theraic winemaking.

Where to find it

The Saint John Acacia Barrel 2023, along with the full range of Venetsanos Winery wines, is available at our e-shop. You can now ship your choice of wine from Santorini and other Greek regions worldwide, safely and without delays. If you are shipping your wines to the US, please reach out to talk about import specifications depending on your State. We can only ship to countries that alcohol import is allowed.

Not sure if your country allows wine import? Contact us at e-shop@santorini.net