Aidani

The Fragrant Secret of Santorini and the Cyclades Islands

Although Aidani (sometimes spelled Aïdani) was historically grown on many of the Cyclades islands, its true home and best places of origin are on the island of Santorini. Here, in the harsh volcanic growing sites (where vines are woven into a basket shape to protect the berries from strong winds), Aidani maintains its unique character.
For a long time, this grape was used almost exclusively in blends—as a supporting variety intended to soften the exceptionally high acidity of Assyrtiko and add floral aromas to the wine. Today, however, increasingly more ambitious Greek winemakers are choosing to bottle it as a 100% varietal wine, allowing wine lovers to discover its pure, romantic, and highly perfumed nature.

Flavor Profile: Jasmine, Tropical Fruits, and Softness

• Aroma: Highly expressive and open. The glass is dominated by white flowers (jasmine, acacia, orange blossom), peaches, nectarines, melons, and gentle notes of wild herbs. Wines originating from Santorini often feature a light, elegant breath of volcanic minerality.
• Structure: The wine features a medium body and calmer, rounder acidity (compared to other Greek white varieties). It creates a silky, soft sensation on the palate, accompanied by a long, floral finish.

Ideal Food Pairings

Due to its soft texture and floral aromatic profile, Aidani is exceptionally food-friendly, not requiring overly heavy or rich dishes.
It is an indispensable wine with traditional Greek Meze (appetizers): grilled Halloumi or Feta cheese, Tzatziki dip, dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and Greek salad.
It pairs perfectly with light seafood dishes, especially if they are seasoned with herbs, lemon, and olive oil. It is also one of those wines that is perfectly suited for sipping on its own, simply enjoying a warm summer afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of Aidani in the famous Vinsanto wine?

The island of Santorini is famous for Vinsanto—a legendary sweet wine made from sun-dried grapes. By rule, its base consists of Assyrtiko, but Aidani (along with Athiri) is the secret ingredient that gives this thick, caramel-scented dessert wine complex aromas of dried flowers, apricots, and spices.

Are Aidani wines aged in oak barrels?

Usually, no. Since the greatest asset of this grape is its subtle floral and fruit aromas, winemakers try to ferment and age it in stainless steel tanks. This preserves its purity, freshness, and elegance. Oak barrels would simply "overpower" its gentle character.

Is Aidani suitable for cellar aging?

Unlike the powerful Assyrtiko, the vast majority of dry Aidani wine is crafted to be enjoyed in its youth—within the first 2–3 years of harvest. This is when the aromas of jasmine and spring flowers are at their brightest and most alluring.