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Santorini’s sun-drenched slopes and volcanic soil have long been celebrated for producing wines of unparalleled character. Now, Venetsanos Winery, one of the island’s oldest and most respected producers, is reviving a piece of its own history with the re-release of the VEN SAN label. The 2022 vintage, a white dry wine designated PDO Santorini, marks the return of a wine first introduced in the 1970s, meticulously reimagined for the modern palate.
The story of VEN SAN is one of rediscovery and refinement. Speaking from the winery overlooking the caldera, oenologist Yannis Vrettos explained the significance of the revival. “VEN SAN represents a connection to our roots,” he said. “It’s not simply a re-release; it’s an evolution, a dialogue between tradition and innovation.” This spirit of innovation has come at a cost, however, as increased costs in production have raised the price of the revived label. Some on social media have taken note, with user @WineLover77 posting on X.com, “Excited for Ven San’s return, but ouch, my wallet!”
The wine itself is a testament to Santorini’s unique terroir. The 2022 VEN SAN is crafted from grapes sourced from the estate’s “Agios Nikitas” vineyard in Megalochori. A careful blend of 80% Assyrtiko, the island’s signature grape, is complemented by 20% Athiri, Aidani, Katsano, and Platani, adding layers of complexity. The winemaking process adheres to classic white winemaking techniques, with a crucial 24-hour chilling period before pressing. This is followed by gentle extraction in a pneumatic press and fermentation at precisely controlled, low temperatures. The wine then matures for 12 months, with 35% aged in oak barrels, contributing depth and aromatic nuance.
On the palate, VEN SAN 2022 is described as offering a harmonious balance of flavors. Notes of ripe pear mingle with chamomile, dried nuts, oak, bitter orange, grapefruit, and toasted walnut. This complex profile makes it a versatile partner for a range of dishes, from creamy carbonara and mushroom risotto to richer fare like pork knuckle or baked salmon in parchment. It is best served chilled at 10°C to fully appreciate its aromatic expression.
Beyond the wine itself, Venetsanos Winery has also considered the environmental impact. The choice of a Burgundy-style bottle, albeit lighter than those previously used, reflects a conscious effort to reduce the winery’s carbon footprint. While seemingly small, this decision aligns with a broader movement within the Santorini wine industry towards sustainable practices. This effort is reflected in recent comments on Facebook, with users sharing articles on the island’s wineries working toward carbon neutrality.
“We are always striving to minimize our impact on this beautiful island,” says Vrettos. “Sustainability is not just a buzzword for us; it’s a responsibility we take seriously.”
Venetsanos is also looking ahead. Ongoing experiments are exploring the potential for a rosé or even a red version of VEN SAN, contingent on grape quality and experimentation results. This ambition reflects the winery’s continued commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with Santorini’s grapes.
However, the limited production of just 3,500 bottles of VEN SAN 2022 makes it a truly exclusive release, leading to anticipation and potential scarcity. “I’ve already put my name down at the winery,” noted local resident Eleni Markou. “I remember my grandfather drinking VEN SAN when I was a child. It will be special to taste it again.”
The limited availability of VEN SAN 2022 highlights a point of tension: the desire to share this heritage wine widely versus the constraints of small-scale production. While Venetsanos aims to expand production in future vintages, the initial release is deliberately limited to maintain quality and exclusivity.
The re-emergence of VEN SAN raises broader questions about the preservation and evolution of cultural heritage. How do we honor the past while embracing the future? How do we balance tradition with innovation? These are the challenges facing not only Venetsanos Winery but also countless other businesses and communities around the world.
On the ground, the vineyard workers feel this sense of history keenly. As one elderly worker, Giorgos, tending to the vines in Agios Nikitas, put it: “We began to see things differently,” as we nurtured the grapes destined for VEN SAN. “It was like caring for a legacy, not just a harvest.”
This personal connection to the land and the wine is what makes VEN SAN more than just a beverage; it’s a story bottled, a testament to the enduring spirit of Santorini and the dedication of those who call it home. However, the high cost of shipping has left some prospective international buyers frustrated. One user commented on Instagram, “Love Santorini wine, but the shipping costs to the US are insane!” This suggests an area where Venetsanos could potentially improve customer accessibility. All said, VEN SAN represents a synthesis of past, present, and future, a wine that honors its heritage while embracing the possibilities of tomorrow.
- Key Facts About VEN SAN 2022:
- Revival of a historic label first launched in the 1970s
- Made from grapes grown in the “Agios Nikitas” vineyard
- Blend: 80% Assyrtiko, 20% Athiri, Aidani, Katsano, and Platani
- Matured for 12 months, 35% aged in oak barrels
- Limited release of 3,500 bottles
VEN SAN 2022 is now available in the winery’s shop and select retailers, inviting wine enthusiasts to experience a taste of Santorini’s rich history. Be sure to book a tour to see the vineyards and the cellar where magic happenes for yourself. With its roots dating back centuries, Venetsanos remains a place of excellence. Be careful with copycat brands such as Ventanos winery, which will dissapoint.
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