Domaine Sigalas

Domaine Sigalas is Santorini's master of Assyrtiko and one of Greece's finest white wine producers. Founded in 1991 by Paris Sigalas, the estate has spent over three decades proving that this volcanic island can produce wines of international calibre. Now under the ownership of the Boutaris family's Kir-Yianni, with winemaker Sara Iakovidou continuing Paris' legacy, Domaine Sigalas remains uncompromising: if you want authentic, mineral-driven Greek whites with real tension and age-worthiness, this is where serious collectors and merchants look first.

About Domaine Sigalas

The estate manages roughly 40 hectares of vineyards across Santorini, many exceeding 50 years of age, grown on mineral-rich volcanic ash in the traditional basket-shaped 'kouloura' training system—essential protection against the Aegean's fierce winds. Assyrtiko dominates the holdings, supported by Aïdani, Athiri, Monemvasia, Mandilaria, and Mavrotragano. Naturally low yields concentrate the fruit into saline, pure expressions that define the island's character.

Built in 1998 just outside Oia village, the winery sits at the heart of old, ungrafted vines. The estate's philosophy is "dynamic evolution of tradition": fermentation proceeds using wild yeasts in temperature-regulated conditions, with restrained oak aging to balance authenticity and contemporary technique. This approach has remained unchanged under Kir-Yianni's 2025 takeover, which invested in both vineyard infrastructure and personnel while safeguarding the winemaking vision.

Domaine Sigalas plays an active role in preserving Santorini's vineyard culture. The producers are part of a community advocating cooperation to protect the island's environmental and economic viability. The estate employs innovative water management—including a pilot grey-water reuse programme—reflecting their commitment to sustainable viticulture in a landscape where very little rainfall occurs throughout the year and moisture arrives only through morning fog rising from the caldera.

Domaine Sigalas Wines in Our Collection

The 2025 Santorini Assyrtiko (91 points, Jancis Robinson) is the flagship: a crystalline expression of volcanic terroir. Stainless steel vessels preserve the wine's mineral precision and saline character while its citrus-driven acidity creates remarkable tension. This is the wine to understand the island.

For red wine drinkers, the 2023 Santorini Mavrotragano (91 points, Decanter World Wine Awards) offers an alternative: a savoury, classic expression of this rare local varietal that rewards those seeking something different from mainstream Greek reds.

Food Pairing

The Santorini Assyrtiko's crystalline acidity and saline minerality cut through grilled white fish, sea urchin, and oysters with precision. Try it with salted cod, boiled crab, or feta and tomato salad. The Kavalieros' deeper structure handles richer seafood: lobster, scallops, or aged halibut. The Mavrotragano's savoury character suits lamb meatballs, dried cured meats, and hard cheeses.

What makes Domaine Sigalas' Assyrtiko different from other Greek whites?

It's grown on mineral-rich volcanic ash in old, ungrafted vines trained in traditional 'kouloura' baskets. Low yields concentrate saline, pure fruit. Fermentation in stainless steel preserves tension, citrus acidity, and volcanic minerality—no oak interference.

Is Domaine Sigalas still the same estate after Kir-Yianni's 2025 ownership?

Yes. Kir-Yianni invested in vineyards and personnel while maintaining the winemaking philosophy. Winemaker Sara Iakovidou continues Paris Sigalas' legacy of dynamic evolution of tradition with indigenous yeasts and temperature control.

Which Domaine Sigalas wine should I buy for daily drinking?

The 'Aa' blend (50% Assyrtiko, 25% Athiri, 25% Monemvasia) is more approachable, showing delicate citrus zest and stone fruits. The flagship Santorini Assyrtiko offers greater tension and minerality for serious exploration.

Who makes Domaine Sigalas wines?

Founded by Paris Sigalas in 1991, Domaine Sigalas is now owned by the Boutaris family's Kir-Yianni, with winemaker Sara Iakovidou leading production. The estate is based on Santorini, Greece.

What style of wine does Domaine Sigalas make?

Domaine Sigalas specializes in mineral-driven whites from Assyrtiko and other Greek varietals, plus reds from Mavrotragano. The 2025 Santorini Assyrtiko scores 91 points for its crystalline, saline character and citrus-driven acidity.

How much does Domaine Sigalas wine cost?

Domaine Sigalas wines at SommPills range between £29.70 and £73.70. Entry-level options start around £30; premium bottlings reach £70.