Kir-Yianni acquires Santorini estate Domaine Sigalas
Having collaborated since 2009, Kir-Yianni has gained majority control of Domaine Sigalas in Santorini. The acquisition marks its first estate outside Macedonia in northern Greece.
Family winery Kir-Yianni has completed the process of buying Santorini winery Domaine Sigalas. With the transfer of a majority shareholding from a company owned by Greek shipowner Thanassis Martinos, Kir-Yianni now has its first estate in the Greek islands.
The move cements more than a decade of partnership between the two wineries. Kir-Yianni first supported Domaine Sigalas in 2009. Since 2020, it has taken on a wider role, managing the vineyards and implementing an investment plan for the estate.
Domaine Sigalas farms 45 hectares of vineyards in and surrounding the village of Oia, on Santorini’s northwest tip. It is undergoing a period of considerable change, with 17 hectares newly planted and schemes focusing on sustainable viticulture and water management now in operation. This includes a pilot in collaboration with Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Santorini Municipal Water and Wastewater Company, and the Santorini Winemakers Association, which aims to re-use grey water.
Stellios Boutaris, winemaker and CEO of Kir-Yianni, comments: “The acquisition of Domaine Sigalas is the strongest vote of confidence in the vineyard and the wines of Santorini.
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“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.”
The acquisition sees Kir-Yianni expand its vineyard holdings beyond Macedonia for the first time. Its production had previously been centred on Naoussa and Amyndeon, with Xinomavro a speciality. Domaine Sigalas brings with it a considerable range of Santorini’s famous Assyrtiko, as well as other local grapes.
With a third area to work in, Kir-Yianni expects to exceed €20 million in annual turnover. Its wines are distributed in 55 countries, with exports predicted to reach €7 million.
Moreover, the company’s immediate plans include adaptations to a rapidly changing industry. Sustainable wine tourism is at the heart of the strategy, with 35,000 annual visitors exploring Kir-Yianni and Domaine Sigalas.
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