For those seeking to understand Crete’s viticultural renaissance, Heraklion offers an enlightening day’s journey. Here, on the island’s most hospitable terrain, especially in its heart, lies a landscape that seems predestined for winemaking.
The region’s vineyards – now the most sophisticated on Crete, with two-thirds bearing the coveted PDO designation – have mastered a delicate dance with the elements. In summer, they catch the cooling breath of the northern Meltemi winds while staying sheltered from the scorching southern breezes.
In Peza, vines climb to breathtaking heights of 800 meters, where altitude lends complexity to the wines. The area has become a sanctuary for both indigenous treasures like Vilana (Crete’s most planted variety, known for its vibrant, fruit-driven character), Dafni, and Plyto, as well as aromatic varieties such as Moschato Spinas and Malvasia Aromatica.
What follows is a carefully curated selection of wineries that exemplify the region’s excellence. For those wishing to explore beyond these selections, our comprehensive guide to Heraklion’s wineries provides an exhaustive overview.
Note: Advance booking is essential for all winery visits.
01
Daf Wines
The family-run Daf Wines winery sits in the foothills of Dafnes, from where it derived its name. This family’s devotion to viticulture spans over a century, with their first recognition achieved by Evangelos Douloufakis in 1952 at the International Exhibition of Thessaloniki. Today, the baton has been passed to the third generation. Noteworthy among the winery’s labels is the trilogy “Aspri Gi,” its name honoring the white soils that dominate Dafnes. The white wine is a refreshing blend of two Cretan varieties – Muscat of Spina and Vidiano. The rosé version is made from Muscat of Spina and Liatiko, while the red wine, created from Liatiko, is characterized by its fruity aroma and mild tannins. The winery is open to visitors by appointment.
02
Scalarea Estate
The enterprise and history of the Boutari winery in Crete began in 1989 with the acquisition of the Scalarea Estate in Skalani, Heraklion. The estate was revitalized with vines in 2015, and a state-of-the-art winery with impressive hospitality spaces was created. The winemaking complex is complemented by three luxurious dwellings known as Scalani Hills Residences. Distinguished among the estate’s labels are the aromatic and balanced Fantaxometocho,” a perfect marriage of Chardonnay and Assyrtiko, the full-bodied and rich ‘“’Scalarea White” from Vidiano and Athiri varieties, and the “Scalarea Red,” a highly commended blend of Kotsifali and Syrah. The winery operates as a visitor destination, also offering wine picnics and culinary experiences.
03
Silva Winery
In the village of Siva, the Silva Winery, built by the Daskalaki family in 1998, stands as a tribute to the region’s rich mythology. The village’s name harks back to the deity Siva, also known as Dionysus, who was widely worshipped in the surrounding territory. The resurrection of a 90-acre vineyard began in 1998, organically farmed at an elevation of 500 meters. Beyond this, 20 acres in the coastal region of Fodele are cultivated, alongside an additional 50 acres of cooperative vineyards at altitudes of 600 and 750 meters. The estate’s labels include noteworthy offerings such as the ‘Psithiros’, made from Moschato Spinas, the ‘Enstikto’, crafted from Vidiano that delivers a robust body and an oily texture, and the sweet ‘Emilia’, produced from sun-dried grapes of the Liatiko variety, aged for ten years in French oak barrels. The winery welcomes visitors.
04
Lyrarakis Winery
Lyrarakis, positioned amid vineyards near Alagni village, champions Crete’s rare indigenous varieties. Founded in 1966, this winery revitalizes grapes such as Dafni, Plyto, and Melissaki, previously near extinction. Particularly compelling is their aromatic Dafni wine, distinguished by its herbal undertones reminiscent of laurel, as well as Plyto, crisp and vibrant. The lush surroundings provide an ideal setting for tours, wine tastings, and leisurely walks through vineyards, all available by reservation.
05
Fragospito Winery by Gavalas
The tale of the Gavalas Estate arches back to 1906 when the first vineyards were planted by Emmanouil Gavalas in the Boria Monofatsiou region. In 2001, the vineyards were brought under the regime of organic cultivation and presently, their total expanse reaches 150 acres. Notable among the estate’s labels are the ‘Vilana’ white wine, which ferments in stainless steel tanks, and the red ‘Mandilari’ and ‘Kotsifali’. The winery is open to visitors.
05
Idaia Winery
Named after the ancient region Idaia, now modern Venerato, this winery harmonizes Crete’s wine heritage with contemporary techniques. Established by dedicated winemakers who treasure local varieties, Idaia produces wines from Vilana, Vidiano, and Kotsifali. Among their highlights is a refreshing Vilana, bright and balanced, alongside the expressive Kotsifali-Mandilari blend, delivering velvety tannins with ripe red fruits. Idaia’s intimate tasting room invites visitors to sample these creations firsthand, by appointment only.
06
Domaine Paterianakis
Domaine Paterianakis occupies a scenic plot near Melesses village, standing out as Crete’s first organic winery. The family’s respect for nature and sustainable practices underpins every bottle produced from local varieties, such as Thrapsathiri and Kotsifali, alongside international grapes. Exceptional among their collection is a balanced Thrapsathiri, floral and mineral-rich, as well as their lively Kotsifali red, layered with cherry notes. Visitors can enjoy tastings accompanied by panoramic vineyard views, with prior booking required.
07
Efrosini Winery
Tucked into the lush landscapes of Heraklion, this winery adopts a modern approach rooted in tradition. Since its inception, the winery has focused exclusively on native Cretan varieties, including Thrapsathiri, Vidiano, and Mandilari. Their stand-out labels include a vibrant Vidiano with hints of tropical fruit, and a robust Mandilari offering a nuanced, earthy depth. Efrosini’s wines reflect meticulous care, highlighting the island’s terroir with clarity and precision. Tours and tastings are available through advance reservation.
