The Assyrtiko vineyard is located in Santorini. The terroir is recognised worldwide for its tremendous historical roots, as the vineyards in this area date back 3,000 years. The low-yielding, 80 year old, self rooted vines are grown in soils which are poor in organic matter. The high sand content has ensured they have never been affected by phylloxera. The soils are also volcanic: porous with a high mineral content, which imparts the mineral quality to the wine. The long sunshine hours, lack of rainfall, sea mists and strong summer winds all contribute to the unique microclimate. The surrounding Aegean Sea acts as a "climatic buffer" which softens the climate, so the extreme conditions are reduced. The vines are trained on traditional basket shaped systems called "kouloura".