Mavrotragano
Santorini's Black Miracle
Mavrotragano is grown in Santorini and Cyclades.
- Tastes of
- dark cherry, plum, volcanic mineral and spice
- Goes with
- grilled lamb, fava and aged cheeses
The story
Nearly extinct by the 1990s, Mavrotragano was rescued on Santorini. This ancient red produces powerful wines from pre-phylloxera vines.
Insider story
Mavrotragano means 'black and crunchy.' By 1990, only a few dozen vines remained.
Paris Sigalas led the revival. The grape's volcanic terroir is unique—3,500-year-old vines growing in pumice.
Technical deep dive
Deeply colored, full-bodied reds with firm tannins (2,800-3,500 mg/L) and intense dark fruit.
Flavor profile: black cherry, plum, volcanic minerality, herbs, licorice. Ages 10-15 years.
Industry secrets
Production is minuscule—under 5,000 cases worldwide.
The grape is related to Mandilaria but genetically distinct.
For collectors
Investment grade B-
- Auction records
- Sigalas Mavrotragano ($60-100)
- Blue-chip producers
-
- Sigalas
- Hatzidakis
- Gavalas
- Value picks
- Any Mavrotragano you can find ($40-80)
- Price trend
- Rising. Scarcity drives prices.
- Collector’s tip
- Pre-phylloxera rarity—buy for aging potential.