Yiannis Karakasis MW

Yiannis was born in Athens, Greece. His path into the wine world was an unconventional one as he graduated from the Hellenic Navy Academy as an Ensign.

Thereafter he served in various warships, having as well flown 2.000 flying hours as a pilot, instructor and test-pilot with AB-212 navy helicopters. He retired as a Commander in 2011 to pursue his passion for wine. ‘’I always knew that my real destination and my true passion was hiding in the world of wine and I am very happy that it was a dream that became a reality ’’ he says.

He completed his Diploma in 2011 and applied for the MW course. He became a Master of Wine in 2015. His Research Paper was on the hot topic of ‘’the rise of alcohol in Naoussa PDO region over a 20 year period’’.

Yiannis writes, consults and educates on wine. He created the blog, www.karakasis.mw, which has been instrumental in communicating Greek wine to the world. He is the author of three books: the e-book The Vineyards and Wines of Greece (English version) and The Natural Wines in Greece. His latest book is The Wines of Santorini.

Yiannis is a consultant for several businesses including hotel groups and restaurants, and co-founder of the First Growth Wine School in Cyprus. He also established the 50 Great Greek Wines Awards.