2025 Lyrarakis - Vidiano Crete (750ml)

Domaine Lyrarakis has farmed the hills above Heraklion since 1966, growing into one of Crete's most respected family estates and a leading voice for the island's indigenous grapes. The winery is based in the mountainous commune of Alagni, where centuries-old stone presses still stand in the surrounding fields. Beyond popularizing varieties like Vidiano, the family is credited with reviving the nearly forgotten Dafni and Plyto grapes.

This bottling comes from hillside vineyards with a northwest aspect above Heraklion, planted at around 550 meters, where cooler nights help preserve freshness in the fruit. Grapes were picked by hand in early August, then destemmed and lightly crushed. The must was split into two lots, one given twelve hours of skin contact and the other four, before the free-run juice was drained into stainless steel tanks. Fermentation proceeded slowly at sixteen to seventeen degrees Celsius over about ten days, a cool, controlled process meant to protect the wine's aromatics.

The wine pours pale straw, with aromas of white peach and apricot laced with Mediterranean herbs and a touch of citrus. The palate is juicy and rounded, full of stone fruit and bright acidity, finishing with a soft, velvety texture and a subtle mineral edge. Pair it with grilled fish, herbed orzo, or a plate of soft feta drizzled with olive oil.