Sotiris Gkinis

The Climb

At Aoton Winery in Peania, Attica, Greece, the combined role of oenologist, founder, and winemaker places Sotiris Gkinis inside both the technical and practical side of production. That means holding responsibility from early decision-making through bottling, with the work shaped by repetition, close observation, and the discipline needed to keep each vintage aligned with the winery’s approach. The job asks for precision, but also for the steadiness required to maintain a clear house style over time.

Today

Today, Sotiris Gkinis continues in the same three roles: oenologist, founder, and winemaker. The work depends on attention to structure, style, and the smaller technical choices that define how a winery speaks in glass. At Aoton Winery, that makes his role one of maintaining continuity between place, method, and season.

Signature

The signature wines associated with Sotiris Gkinis are LoLa, 5 + 1 Savvatiano 2021, Retsina 2022, and Aoton 'Night Harvest' Roditis 2020. Together they show the range of work coming out of Aoton Winery, with names that sit within the winery’s own vocabulary and the specific context of Greek winemaking. The list reflects a measured, deliberate approach rather than a single formula.

In Their Words “We prefer night harvesting because it produces better wine and reduces energy costs.” That line describes a choice shaped by both quality and efficiency. Night harvesting is presented here as a practical decision, one that responds to the conditions of production rather than to presentation alone. In trade terms, it is a timing choice with consequences for the finished wine and for the cost of making it.

Recognition

Botilia Wine Oscars — Best New Winemaker is among the honors attached to Sotiris Gkinis. The recognition places his work in view beyond Aoton Winery, marking it as something that has registered within the broader wine trade.