Crete

Overview

Crete is Greece's largest island and one of its most dynamic wine regions, with a winemaking history stretching back thousands of years. Vineyards range from lowland plains to plateaus above 1,000 metres, where sea winds and altitude mitigate the hot, dry climate. The island holds four historic PDO zones: Archanes, Dafnes, Peza and Sitia.

Indigenous varieties define Cretan wine, from Vilana whites and the rising star Vidiano to the red pairings of Kotsifali and Mandilaria and the elegant Liatiko. Clay and limestone soils, combined with old bush vines and low yields, produce wines of surprising freshness, complexity and Mediterranean character.

Key Varietals

• VilanaCrete's most planted white, giving soft, floral wines with yellow fruit and gentle acidity.
• VidianoAn emerging star producing textured whites with peach, apricot, herb and honey notes.
• KotsifaliA local red often blended with Mandilaria, adding red fruit, spice and supple body.
• LiatikoAn ancient red used for both dry and sweet wines, with dried cherry, herb and fine tannins.