Interview with winemaker Matthew Argyros

What does Cuvée Evdemon bring differently to your wine series?
For Cuvée Evdemon and its style, we were guided by the specific vineyards, as is the case with all our wines, but even more so with the wines belonging to the Cuvee series. For this particular wine, I had been observing these specific vineyards in Pyrgos for several years, and every year, I was impressed by their energy and the unique potential of their fruit. So, we decided to follow biodynamic farming practices and vinify them separately, envisioning Cuvée Evdemon, which adds to our wine series, a wine that showcases the depth, power, and effortless grandeur of Santorini Assyrtiko.

What is the number one goal for the Estate for the next decade?
2023 was a pivotal year for Argyros Estate. On one hand, we celebrated 120 years since the establishment of the Estate, and on the other hand, we welcomed the birth of our 5th generation. The goals for the future could be the same as the goals we have consistently served throughout our history. Our main priorities remain unwaveringly the dedication to preserving the Santorini vineyard and producing wines of high quality that showcase the uniqueness of the local micro terroir. Therefore, the significant investments currently being made in Estate Argyros result from the above and aim to lead us into the next day while serving a centuries-old tradition.

How difficult is it to maintain the Santorini vineyard in the form we know it?
Clearly, the sacrifices and the work required to maintain the Santorinian vineyard are two factors that must be considered when discussing viticulture. The demands, personal care, hard manual labour, the unique “kouloura” system, education, and the particular terrain combined with meagre yields and daily operational costs endeavour to preserve the vineyard, which is a constant effort with many obstacles. If we now add to these the many more enticing and more lucrative alternative land uses, it becomes perfectly understandable that our work is complicated. The equation is not easy, but Santorini needs balanced development between agricultural production and tourism while providing incentives and vision for the younger generation to cultivate the land of their ancestors and identify with their vision. For us, the unconditional love for the island’s vineyard is non-negotiable and timeless, and we have never been afraid of hard work and difficult decisions. This is the logic and approach followed by Estate Argyros for 120 years and will not change in the future.

What difference does GGW bring to the table for Greek wine?
GGW is a top, innovative institution, distinguished by its unique concept and high aesthetic standards, dedicated to promoting Greek wine domestically and in targeted foreign markets. In this light, GGW represents a qualitative constant and a platform for meaningful encounters—both literal and figurative—between exceptional Greek wine and influential figures in the Greek and global wine community. Through its diverse array of parallel events, GGW contributes to the growing recognition of Greek wine among enthusiasts worldwide, steadily elevating its rightful place on the global stage.