Wines of Crete: A journey to the Cretan vineyards

vinreyard

Crete, an island with a rich history and tradition, is famous not only for its stunning natural beauty and traditional cuisine, but also for its excellent wines. Cretan wineries, with respect for tradition and modern techniques, produce wines that reflect the island’s unique terroir.

In our restaurant, we believe that wine is an integral part of a complete gastronomic experience. That’s why we invite you to discover with us some of Crete’s top wineries, offering a rich variety of flavours and aromas.

Wineries that stand out

Douloufakis Winery: Meet the passionate winemakers of Douloufakis Winery, whose exceptional creations grace our cellar at Avli Malia. Located in the village of Dafnes near Heraklion, this family – run vineyard has been crafting superb wines for three generations. The winery has a long history of wine production, with a long tradition of using traditional vineyards such as Vidiano and Kotsifali. In our cellar, you will find:

  • The sparkling “Brut” edition of Vidiano, for your special moments.
  • The “Epoch” series – white from Muscat of Spina & Vilana and red – from red Muscat, Kotsifali and Syrah – which capture the modern Cretan winemaking.
  • The “Aspros Lagos” – white from Vidiano and red – from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon – that shows the unique Cretan varities.

Experience the perfect balance of tradition and innovation with every sip, available now at our wine cellar!

Aggelakis Winery: A family-owned winery that combines tradition with innovation, producing wines with an emphasis on quality and authenticity. Nestled in the historic wine region of Archanes, this family estate combines traditional Cretan winemaking knowledge with modern techniques. In our cellar you will find:

  • “Thrapsathiri”, a wine that shows the dynamic of this variety.
  • “Takimi White” from Thrapsathiri variety (aged for 11 months in amphora) and “Takimi Red” – from Kotsifali (aged for 12 months in amphora) – that express the uniqueness of Cretan varieties.

Eufrosini Winery: A winery that stands out for its organic wines, with respect for the environment and sustainability. With vineyards in the mountains of Heraklion, offers us unique wines from indigenous varieties. In our cellar, you will find:

  • “Kleftis”, a white wine from Assirtiko blend.
  • “Sophia”, a white wine from the Chardonnay and Vidiano varieties.
  • “Nychtopouli”, a red wine from Kotsifali and Liatiko varieties.
  • “Isorropia”, a red wine from the Cabernet Sauvignon variety.

Louloudis Winery: A small winery with a great love for wine, producing wines with a special character and personality. In our cellar, you will find:

  • “Mantato”, a white wine from Vidiano variety. It is full in flavour with hints of aromatic herbs.
  • “Dithiramvos”, a rose wine from the Liatiko variety. A refreshing wine with a strong dominance of aromas, fruits and flowers.
  • “Merlot – Syrah”, an ideal blend of Merlot and Syrah that results in a wine with robust tannins and an intense, fruity flavour dominated by raspberry.

Winery of the Zouberakis Family: A family-run winery that produces excellent wines with passion and love for tradition.
In our cellar, you will find:

  • “Petra SeCreta1” from Vidiano and Assyrtiko, a dry white wine with aromas of white stone fruits and light “notes” of oak, and “Petra SeCreta2,” a dry red wine from the Kotsifali and Liatiko varieties. A wine with intense aromas of red fruits and barrel aromas due to the fact that it has been aged in barrels for 6 months.
  • “Vidiano Naturε”, a white, dry, single-varietal wine from Vidiano, with mild interventions.

Lyrarakis Winery: One of the most famous wineries in Crete, with a wide variety of wines and many distinctions. Since 1966, this visionary family estate has rescued rare indigenous varieties like Plyto, Dafni, and Melissaki from extinction. Their acclaimed Psarades Vineyard Plyto, grown at 480m altitude in eastern Crete, offers vibrant citrus notes and distinctive minerality. With sustainable practices and dedication to Crete’s viticultural heritage, each bottle represents both preservation and innovation. A true taste of authentic Cretan terroir! In our cellar you will find:

  • “Zazazu”, a refreshing rose wine from Muscat di Spina, Vilana and Vidiano.
  • “Dafni ‘Psarades’”, which captures the unique terroir of Crete’s mountainous vineyards with refreshing herbal notes.
  • “Plyto ‘Psarades'”, which highlights the citrus notes and distinctive minerality of the vineyard.
  • “Melissaki ‘Gerodetes'”, with delicate floral and honey aromas.

Idaia Winery: On the slopes of Psiloritis, Idaia Winery creates PDO PEZA wines with respect to tradition.

In our cellar, you will find:

  • “Hesperis”, a white wine from the Vidiano variety. This wine is distinguished by its aromas of ripe fruits, such as apricot and peach, with notes of flowers and a discreet minerality. Its taste is rich and balanced, with a long and refreshing aftertaste.
  • “Idaia”, a red wine from the Kotsifali and Mandilari varieties. A wine with intense aromas of red fruits, such as cherry and strawberry, with notes of spices and herbs. Its taste is full and velvety, with soft tannins and an enjoyable aftertaste.

Amargiotakis Winery: A winery that produces wines with an emphasis on the indigenous varieties of Crete.

In our cellar, you will find “Thrapsathiri” a white wine from the Thrapsathiri variety, with aromas of white fruits and flowers, with notes of citrus and a discreet minerality. Its taste is cool and balanced, with a long and pleasant aftertaste.

Silva Daskalaki Winery: A winery with modern facilities and extensive experience in wine production. The artisanal approach of Silva Daskalaki Winery shines in our cellar collection. This family-owned gem from the Siva region combines five generations of winemaking wisdom with contemporary innovation. In our cellar you will find:

  • “Psithiros White”, from Muscat of Spina – a wine that highlights the freshness and aromas of Cretan varieties.
  • “Psithiros Red”, a wine from Liatiko and Merlot varieties with rich flavour and aromas, expressing the tradition of the region.

Paterianakis Winery: Explore the organic philosophy of Paterianakis Winery, a standout producer in our cellar. Pioneering organic viticulture in Crete since 1988, this third-generation family estate creates wines of exceptional purity and character. Their remarkable Melissinos ( Thrapsathiri & Sauvignon blanc ) reveals the authentic expression of this indigenous grape – vibrant, aromatic, with a distinctive mineral finish that speaks of Crete’s unique landscape. Taste the difference that organic farming makes, available now in our cellar!

Zidianakis Winery: A winery that produces wines with a special character and personality.
In our cellar, you will find “Semissis”, a white wine from Vilana and Malvasia di Candia aromatica varieties. A wine characterized by harmonious aromas of jasmine and ripe white peach, with a balanced, long-lasting finish.

Haralambakis Winery: A winery known for its traditional wines and indigenous varieties.
In our cellar, you will find their “Dantes”, a dry white wine from the Chardonnay variety. A wine with aromas of exotic fruits, such as pineapple and mango, with notes of vanilla and butter. Its taste is rich and balanced, with a long aftertaste. A wine that expresses the unique identity of Crete.

Winery Terra Divino: A winery that produces wines with an emphasis on quality and authenticity. In our cellar, you will find “Sauvignon blanc”, a white wine from the Sauvignon blanc variety. A wine with aromas of exotic fruits and citrus and with notes of herbs. Its taste is cool and balanced, with a long and pleasant aftertaste.

Winery Diamantakis: Discover the precision and passion of Diamantakis Winery in our cellar. Nestled in the Malevizi region near Heraklion, this family estate creates wines that perfectly balance tradition with modern excellence. Enjoy:

  • “Prinos”, a white wine from the Chardonnay and Malvasia di Candia aromatica varieties.
  • “Petali White”, a white wine from the Assirtiko variety.
  • “Diamantopetra”, a red wine from the Syrah and Mantilari varieties.

Gavalas Estate – Fragospito Winery: With vineyards in Monofatsi – Heraklion, at an altitude of 400m, produces wines with an emphasis on quality and the promotion of the Cretan terroir. In our cellar, you will find:

  • “An”, a wine that highlights the dynamic of Cretan Kotsifali and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties, with aromas of fruits and flowers.
  • “Mandilari”, a wine that highlights the unique character of the variety.

Miliarakis Winery: A winery that produces wines with an emphasis on the indigenous varieties of Crete. Located in the historic winemaking region of Peza near Heraklion, this family estate embraces both tradition and innovation. In our cellar you will find “Vilana Fume”, a wine that highlights the complexity of Vilana, with aromas of smoky notes and fruits, that pairs harmoniously with our traditional dishes. Four generations of winemaking expertise in every bottle tell the story of Cretan passion and dedication!

Alexakis Winery: One of the best known wineries in Crete, with a wide variety of wines and many distinctions. Since 1976, the Alexakis family has been crafting wines that showcase the island’s indigenous varieties. With contemporary methods honoring ancient traditions, each bottle represents both heritage and innovation. A true ambassador of modern Cretan wines!In our cellar you will find:

  • “Tahtas”, a an indigenous white variety that combines freshness with complexity, highlighting the Cretan varieties.
  • “Vidiano Orange”, a wine with a special character, that presents the dynamic of Vidiano with a different vinification.

Manousakis Winery: Step into the world of Manousakis Winery, creators of the exceptional Nostos wines featured in our cellar. Nestled in the hills of Chania, this boutique winery combines sustainable practices with passionate craftsmanship. In our cellar you will find:

  • “Nostos White”, a fascinating wine of Roussanne variety, which enchants with aromatic complexity and elegant structure.
  • “Nostos Red”, from Crenache Rouge variety, which expresses Cretan terroir with international character.

Sustainable practices and meticulous attention produce wines of international standard with distinctly Cretan soul. A true journey of nostalgia and excellence in every bottle!

Pnevmatikakis Winery: A family-run winery that produces wines with passion and love for tradition. With vineyards in the Heraklion area, produces wines with respect for tradition and the environment. In our cellar, you will find “Mithymnios” (Marouvas), a white wine from the Romeiko variety. A traditional oxidative wine, with aromas of dried fruits, nuts and honey. Its taste is rich and complex, with a long aftertaste. A wine that expresses the unique identity of Crete

Vorizanakis Winery: Produces wines from special Cretan varieties. In our cellar, you will find “Rubeus”, a rosé wine from the Liatiko variety. The collection of sun-dried grapes, their special vinification in new oak barrels, and their ageing in these barrels for 1-2 years result in this impressive wine.

Vines of Karavitakis: Discover the elegant approach of Karavitakis Vineyards in our cellar. Located in the Kolymvari region of Chania, this estate combines respect for tradition with innovative techniques. In our cellar you will find “Liastos”, a sweet wine made from sun-dried Romeiko grapes, as the name suggests. The grapes are harvested overripe and then sun-dried for 12 days. The wine is aged in oak barrels for at least 36 months. A perfect reflection of western Crete’s unique terroir, each bottle represents three generations of winemaking expertise. A royal experience awaits you!

Strataridakis Estate: Indulge in the opulent depth of Barbatus Prime Red, a masterpiece from Strataridakis Winery, showcased in our cellar. This exceptional Cretan wine is a harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot, cultivated in the elevated vineyards of central Crete. Matured in new French oak barrels, it unveils a rich tapestry of dark fruit aromas, nuanced with hints of chocolate and spice. With velvety tannins and a lingering finish, Barbatus Prime Red exemplifies the pinnacle of Cretan winemaking artistry. Experience the fusion of international varietals with the unique terroir of Crete.

Dourakis Winery: A winery that produces wines with an emphasis on the indigenous varieties of Crete. Explore the artisanal excellence of Dourakis Winery featured in our cellar. Established in 1988 and nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains in Chania, this family winery creates authentic expressions of Cretan terroir.

  • Their exceptional Romeiko best described as an orange de noir, meaning it is an orange wine made from the red Romeiko grape.
  • Pavo Romeiko White, with its intense colour and aromas of ripe red fruits, spices, and earthy tones, combines traditional heritage with a modern winemaking approach, offering a rich flavour and long finish.

Economou Estate: An estate with a long history in wine production, producing wines with a special character. Located in the Ziros plateau of eastern Crete, this iconic producer follows an almost monastic dedication to traditional winemaking. In our cellar you will find “Antigoni”, a wine that highlights the dynamic of Liatiko and Mantilari varieties, revealing complex layers of dried fruits, leather, spices, and forest floor with remarkable elegance and finesse. Production is extremely limited, with each bottle representing the pinnacle of Cretan winemaking artistry. A transcendent experience for true wine connoisseurs!

Zacharioudakis Estate: Perched at 500 meters in the mountains of central Crete, this organic estate offers a breathtaking view matched only by their exceptional wines. In our cellar you will find:

  • “CODEX”, a wine that highlights the dynamic of Cretan Assirtiko and Muscat of Spina varieties, with aromas of fruits and spices.
  • “Kotsifali”, a wine with characteristic taste and aromas of the variety.

A true expression of high-altitude Cretan viticulture, where tradition meets the sky. 

Winery Paraskeva: With vineyards in the Heraklion area, produces wines with respect for tradition and the environment.
In our cellar, you will find
Archos“, a rose wine from Liatiko and Muscat of Spina. A wine with floral aromas of rose and jasmine emerge strongly on the nose.

Theros Wines Collectiva (“Environmentally Conscious Wines”): Konstantinos Manouras has envisioned presenting his own version of what Cretan wines are and what they can become. This journey began in 2020, through a wine collective that honors the terroir of the Cretan land and its native varieties. He cultivates grapes in his own and partner vineyards, without the use of heavy metals or pesticides, showing absolute respect for the arid, pre-phylloxera vineyards of Heraklion. It attaches particular importance to the relationship between each variety and the unique microclimate in which it thrives, carrying out careful, targeted vinification.

Plyto – Thrapsathiri is a very pleasant surprise from a special blend of two Cretan varieties. It comes from a 5.5-acre vineyard that is over 120 years old. This combination produces a wine that is perfectly suited to gastronomy, which can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by an impressively wide range of flavors.

Ampelourgein Winery: The Ampelourgein winery, founded in 1997 by Nikolaos Papadakis in Schinokapsala, Lasithi, produces natural wines from indigenous Cretan varieties, grown at an altitude of 850–1150 meters, far from pollution and chemical interventions. Anthosmia, an organic wine from Daphni, Thrapsathiri, and Moschato Spinas, is a wine that captures the purity and wild beauty of the place, coming from ungrafted vines, some over 100 years old, which are cultivated with reverence and respect. With minimal intervention and gentle vinification, it expresses the purity of nature, the unique microclimate of Lasithi, and the winemaker’s philosophy of letting the place and the year speak through the glass.

Toplou Winery: The inscription on the monastery’s Lino, built in 1709 by Abbot Kallinikos, testifies that the native Liatiko variety was cultivated on the estates of the Holy Monastery of Toplou in Sitia. The monastic wine produced was exceptional and renowned. Continuing with the same reverence to this day, this ancient red variety of the Cretan vineyard is organically cultivated and vinified in the facilities of the monastery’s modern winery, with an emphasis on its unique characteristics. Each bottle of “Linos” is the result of dedication and the art of winemaking, revealing aromas and flavors that evolve over time, paying tribute to the Cretan land and tradition.

Klados Winery: Klados Winery presents Pink Blackbird, an expressive rosé Kotsifali that embodies the authenticity and elegance of the Cretan terroir, ideal for accompanying a variety of culinary experiences.


In our restaurant, you will find a carefully selected list of wines from these exceptional wineries.

Wine Tastings & Pairing Experiences

Beyond offering an extensive wine list, our cellar is a place for exclusive wine tastings and pairing events.
Guests will have the opportunity to explore the richness of Greek wine culture
through curated tasting experiences designed to perfectly complement our menu of traditional Cretan dishes.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just beginning your journey into the world of Greek wines,
our team is here to guide you through the perfect pairings that enhance every bite and sip.

Avli Malia wine cellar

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