2023 Lyrarakis - Liatiko Crete (750ml)

Lyrarakis was founded in 1966 by brothers Manolis and Sotiris Lyrarakis in the village of Alagni, in the mountainous Peza region near Heraklion, Crete. What began as a modest local operation selling to nearby tavernas has grown into one of Crete's most respected wineries under the second generation, credited with rescuing three indigenous Cretan grape varieties from near extinction and helping spearhead the island's modern wine renaissance. The estate transitioned fully to organic viticulture in 2020, encouraging many of its partner growers to follow suit.

This Liatiko comes from head-trained, unirrigated vineyards planted on limestone-rich soils at elevations between roughly 580 and 800 meters across Rethymno and Sitia, where altitude helps preserve freshness despite Crete's warm southern climate. The grapes are hand-harvested and fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel following a short, gentle maceration of just a few days, a light touch that suits Liatiko's naturally pale color and delicate structure.

Known as one of the "queens" of Cretan grape varieties, Liatiko produces a graceful, pale garnet wine with a bright nose of dark cherry, wild berries, and fresh herbs, sometimes with a whisper of cinnamon or licorice. The palate is light bodied with fine tannins and juicy acidity, best enjoyed lightly chilled. It pairs naturally with pizza, pasta in red sauce, or simple grilled fish.