2021 VIDIANO, Lyrarakis. Crete, Greece

Lyrarakis are located in the hillsides (at 440m) of east-central Crete, a little south and east of Heraklion.

100% Vidiano, macerated on the skins for 8 hours, then fermented cool in steel tanks, before early bottling.

Lyrarakis Estate is a family-owned business, started in 1966. It single-handedly ‘saved’ three indigenous grape varieties (Dafni, Plyto and Melissaki) and also produces other native Greek examples like this and Assyrtiko, the best known of them. They consider Vidiano the ‘queen’ of the local varieties, hence the modern interpretation of an iconic queen on the label.
Winemaker is Myriam Ambuzer and exports are handled by Effie Kallnikidou, who gave a brilliant presentation to our staff in July 2022.

A great value alternative to Assyrtiko from Santorini. Hints of smokey complexity, in a lemony-fresh and lively shell, but softly, gently textured.