BREAKING NEWS: Artemis Karamolegos Winery expands to Amyndeo

By Yiannis Karakasis MW

In the past two to three years, Greek wine has been experiencing remarkable growth and reshuffling, with the emergence of new wineries and significant acquisitions in the field. In Santorini, wineries like Alpha Estate and others have made a strong impression in recent years. Still, until now, no producer from Santorini has ventured off the island to establish a new winery elsewhere.

This is all changing as Artemis Karamolegos Winery announces its expansion to Amyndeo. Artemis Karamolegos Winery is one of Santorini's most prominent wineries, producing nearly 200,000 bottles annually and specialising in single vineyard wines. The new winery in Amyndeo will have the same volume capacity (up to 200,000 bottles). It will also be open to visitors, providing an exceptional opportunity for wine tourists to explore winemaking in the heart of Macedonia. Currently, the winery has access to 12ha, both owned and in partnership, aiming for self-sufficiency in production.

In a recent interview, the winery's founder, Artemis Karamolegos, stated: "Amyndeo is an amazing region with an ideal climate for producing exciting wines while being resilient to climate change. Other regions are already facing issues." He noted that it took about four years to bring this idea to life, and the first harvest for the new winery took place in 2024

The winery will soon announce its commercial name. It plans to produce a sparkling rosé, a still rosé, a red wine from Xinomavro, and one or two white wines using varieties like Sauvignon Blanc and Assyrtiko. 

This move is daring, if not audacious, as the producer transitions from one of Greece's most significant wine regions to another, demonstrating an in-depth study and adaptation to climate change trends. Essentially, from the warm, sun-drenched slopes of Santorini, the winery expands to the cooler climate conditions of Amyndeo, aiming to bring new taste experiences to wine lovers and continue its successful journey in winemaking.

I am looking forward to tasting the new wines soon.