A new era for the iconic Santorini winery, as the KIR-YIANNI family unites three of Greece’s most prestigious wine regions
KIR-YIANNI announces the acquisition of Domaine Sigalas, completing the transfer of the majority shareholding from a company owned by Greek shipowner Thanassis Martinos. The agreement marks a new era for the emblematic Santorini winery, which now comes under the absolute ownership of the KIR-YIANNI family.
With this acquisition, KIR-YIANNI strengthens further its footprint on the domestic and world wine map, establishing itself as a leading ambassador of Greek wine worldwide. The new, highly competitive family of wineries brings together three of the country’s most renowned wine regions: Naoussa and Amyndeon through Kir-Yianni Estate, and Santorini through Domaine Sigalas. All entities are united by a shared vision, a dedicated focus on sustainable growth, on the prominence of unique terroirs and indigenous grapes, and on a consistent high quality.
KIR-YIANNI’s growth momentum is expected to exceed €20 million in annual turnover, with exports reaching €7 million and distribution in 55 countries. Investment in high-quality, sustainable wine tourism also stands at the forefront of the strategy. Indicatively, more than 35,000 visitors explored the three destinations of Kir-Yianni and Sigalas (Naoussa, Amyndeon, and Santorini respectively) this year.
«A strong vote of confidence in the vineyard of Santorini»
“The acquisition of Domaine Sigalas is the strongest vote of confidence in the vineyard and the wines of Santorini,” says Stellios Boutaris, Winemaker and CEO of KIR-YIANNI. “We have deep roots on the island — I personally made my first harvest there in 1985. The way we see and understand the outstanding uniqueness of Santorini is reflected in our strategic long-term investment in the island. With respect to traditions and commitment to science and innovation, we are building up a sustainable future. This year’s harvest has sparked concern and even skepticism. These are the crucial moments that test whether you have a plan -and we do”.
The evolution of a long-standing relationship
The relationship between KIR-YIANNI and Domaine Sigalas began in 2009, in support of Paris Sigalas’ vision that brought Santorini to the forefront of the global wine scene. Since 2020, KIR-YIANNI has taken over the management of the winery and implemented an investment plan, focusing on people, vineyards, and infrastructure. A new generation of scientists leads this new era, headed by oenologist Sara Iakovidou, agronomists Stratos Guillame Xirafis and Kostas Tellis, and Yiannis Boutaris – Stellios Boutaris’ son and sixth generation of the winemaking family — who began his own career on the island.
Today, Domaine Sigalas cultivates 45 hectares of vineyards in the village of Oia and surrounding areas in the northern part of Santorini –17 hectares of them are newly planted. Innovative practices in sustainable viticulture and water management are being implemented, including a pilot grey-water reuse program in collaboration with Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Santorini Municipal Water and Wastewater Company, and the Santorini Winemakers Association. In line with the KIR-YIANNI family philosophy, Domaine Sigalas remains a strong advocate of cooperation and collective action, actively supporting the Santorini Winemakers Association and all initiatives that promote the sustainable future of Santorini, and of Greek Wine.
