About This Event
[euphoria]: a state of intense happiness and wellbeing, often accompanied by a sense of exhilaration and elation.
Elevate your appreciation for wine and philosophy with this exclusive retreat led by the world’s most influential wine critic, Jancis Robinson, and Raimonds Tomsons, the Best Sommelier of the World 2023. Set against the backdrop of Dexamenes Seaside Hotel—a luxurious haven transformed from a postwar winery—this experience, in strategic alliance with WSPC, promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of wine culture.
Indulge in a harmonious blend of wine education, philosophy, and relaxation, offering a holistic exploration of wine’s essence. Immerse yourself in the local culture and wine-making traditions of the Peloponnese region with visits to renowned wineries such as Mercouri Estate and Brintzikis Estate. Participate in hands-on wine tasting and pairing workshops with Jancis and Raimonds, learning about the history of wine and engaging in discussions and evaluations of various Greek and international labels. Enlightening philosophical discussions, facilitated by Edith Hall and inspired by the ancient Greek symposium, will be held each day, focusing on different thematic explorations.
Combining the pleasures of fine wine with deep philosophical insights, this retreat is designed to nourish both mind and spirit. It aims to harmonize sensory pleasures and intellectual stimulation, leading to a state of euphoria—a profound sense of well-being and contentment.
Join us in raising a glass to the timeless allure of wine, where every sip is a celebration of life. This six-day retreat, starting on October 25, promises an unforgettable escape for wine enthusiasts, leaving you deeply connected to the essence of wine and its soulful journey. Assistant Expert Sommelier Christos Papadopoulos will also be present to enhance the experience.
In strategic alliance with WSPC
Retreat leaders
Jancis Robinson: Jancis was voted the world’s most influential wine critic in various polls in the US, France, and internationally in 2018, though she describes herself as a wine writer. She founded JancisRobinson.com in 2000 and sold it to US digital publisher Recurrent Ventures in 2021. She is now the editor in chief and main contributor. Since 1990, she has been the wine correspondent for the Financial Times, writing every Saturday.
She is the founder-editor of The Oxford Companion to Wine and co-author of The World Atlas of Wine and Wine Grapes, each recognized as a standard reference worldwide. The 24-Hour Wine Expert (2017) is her practical guide to wine. In 1984, she was the first non-trade person to pass the Master of Wine exams and in 2003 was awarded an OBE by the Queen, advising her cellar from 2004 to 2022. She remains a member of the Royal Household Wine Committee.
In April 2016, she received France’s Officier du Mérite Agricole, the German VDP’s highest honor, and her fourth James Beard Award in the US. She now has six, including being the only wine writer in the James Beard Cookbook Hall of Fame. In 2018, she launched her ideal wine glass and in 2021 became a trustee of the Gérard Basset Foundation to increase diversity in wine, spirits, and hospitality through education.
An Oxford graduate in Maths and Philosophy, she lives for wine in all its diversity, favoring balance and subtlety over mass, and has campaigned for sustainability in wine since 2006.
Raimonds Tomsons: Raimonds is recognized as The Best Sommelier of World 2023 and Best Sommelier of Europe 2017 by the world’s leading wine organization – A. S. I. (Association de la Sommellerie Internationale).
He found his passion and love for wine and hospitality while working at the renowned restaurant. Vincents for 20 years. After winning several times the Latvian and Baltic sommelier competitions his ambitions grew. He studied in the famous Austrian Wine academy in Rust where he passed the WSET Diploma in Wines & Spirits. He also holds the World record of sabring 71 bottle of Champagne in just 60 seconds.
Raimonds is the Wine director at Barents Wine Collectors, Global Brand ambassador at Mosphera, board member at the Latvian Sommelier Association, a wine judge at the prestigious Decanter Wine World Awards, a jury member of Star Wine Lists – the guide to great wine lists of the World, a jury member for the “Latvia’s Wine of the Year” contest and owner of Ltd. Raimonds Tomsons Wine Consulting. He is also the brand ambassador of the Craft Irish Whiskey company.
Contributor
Edith Hall: Edith holds a Chair in Classics at Durham University. She has previously taught at Oxford, Cambridge, Reading and London Universities as well as lecturing across four continents. She is a regular broadcaster on BBC television and radio, acts as consultant to professional theatres including the National Theatre in London, the Royal Shakespeare Company, and the Epidauros Festival. She was the first woman to be awarded the Erasmus Prize of the European Academy, is a Fellow of the British Academy and holds honorary doctorates from Durham and Athens Universities. The more than thirty books she has published include eight on ancient Greek and Roman theatre and their continuing influence today.
About the location
The Peloponnese, a geographical region of mainland Greece situated in the southern part of the country, is renowned for its captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Surrounded by the sea and framed by majestic mountains, it boasts fascinating archaeological sites and charming traditional villages, offering a diverse range of attractions all year round.
From rugged landscapes to delectable cuisine and pristine beaches to rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, the Peloponnesian Peninsula presents an irresistible allure, yet remains relatively unspoiled by tourism. With its proximity to Athens and a plethora of appealing resorts and sightseeing opportunities, the Peloponnese is a coveted destination for travelers of all kinds.
About the hotel
Have you ever stayed in a wine tank? Nestled on the pristine coastline of Kourouta Beach near Amaliada, the Dexamenes Seaside Hotel is a unique, conscious-luxury resort. This former post-war winery has been transformed into an award-winning architectural marvel, recognized globally for its exceptional Adaptive Reuse and Regenerative Architecture.
Dexamenes is a standout example of upcycling, converting historic wine tanks into luxurious suites. The resort prioritizes sustainability by integrating reclaimed materials, from bricks and concrete to repurposed water pipelines and furniture, into its design.
Situated in the unspoiled western Peloponnese, Dexamenes is the perfect base for sun-seekers and wine enthusiasts, with an abundance of local wineries to explore. The hotel seamlessly blends eco-conscious practices with luxury, offering exquisite dining, rejuvenating wellness services, and state-of-the-art amenities to cater to the needs of discerning guests.
Indicative Schedule
Disclaimer: The schedule will be finalized shortly.
Please note that the final wine-related themes will be tailored to the participants' level of knowledge and will be announced at a later date.
Take a look at the event highlights for more information.
Start your
journey
Event Highlights
– Expert Leadership: Retreat led by Jancis Robinson, the world’s most influential wine critic, and Raimonds Tomsons, the Best Sommelier of the World 2023.
– Thematic Historic Venue: Dexamenes Hotel, a former postwar winery transformed into a luxurious haven.
– In-depth wine education sessions covering the essence of wine.
– Immersion in the local culture and wine-making traditions of the Peloponnese region.
– Visits to acclaimed wineries in the region: Mercouri Estate & Brintzikis Estate
– Practical workshops on the art of wine tasting and pairing.
– Enlightening discussions inspired by the ancient Greek symposium, with daily thematic explorations.
– In strategic alliance with WSPC
Prices
4600€/per person
in Double Occ. room
Prices
5600€/per person
in Single Occ. room
Flexible
payment plan
what’s included
- All wine workshops with Jancis
- All wine workshops with Raimonds
- All sessions with Edith Hall
- 5-night accommodation at Dexamenes Hotel
- All breakfast meals
- All dinner meals
- Wine tasting
- Wine pairing
what’s not included
- Airfare to/from Greece
- Arrival and departure land transfers in Greece
- Lunch, soft drinks, beverages
- Climate Change Resilience Tax 7 Euros per room per night payable by the guests directly to the hotel
- Whatever is not mentioned clearly in the inclusions
more info
We strongly advise you to book flexible airfare tickets and flights with fewer carbon emissions to contribute to environmental protection, as it is our responsibility to safeguard our environment
Payment Plan: Available – contact us at info@travelgems.com for details.
Language: English
Private Transfer: Available upon request
Non-participants / Accompanying Guests: Specific rates are available—please contact us at info@travelgems.com for more information
Cancellation Policy: 30% Deposit amount is non-refundable | Should you wish to cancel your participation one month or less before the start of the retreat, 100% of cancellation fees are applied.
Important Info: In case there are Covid-19 restrictions or restrictions related to any other pandemic that prevent guests from traveling the total amount paid will be refunded.
Dietary Needs: Should you have any special dietary needs/allergies, kindly let us know in advance in order to be able to better accommodate you in the best possible way.
Transport: For your convenience, here are the nearest airports and ports for the Wine & Philosophy Retreat at Dexamenes Seaside Hotel, along with approximate travel times:
Nearest Airports:
- Athens International Airport: Book a 3-hour transfer to Dexamenes.
- Patras Araxos Airport: Book a 45-minute transfer to Dexamenes.
- Kalamata International Airport: Book a 1 hour and 40-minute transfer to Dexamenes.
- Zakynthos Airport: Requires a ferry boat transfer. Please contact us at info@travelgems.com for assistance.
Nearest Ports:
- Patras Port: Book a 1-hour transfer to Dexamenes.
- Katakolo Port: Book a 20-minute transfer to Dexamenes.
Please contact info@travelgems.com for further information or assistance.
