No beast in the center here.
Crete is the largest and most populous of the Greek islands and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its legendary Labyrinth and the Minotaur who dwelt in the center of it. It is also know for making some superb local varietal wines that are soon to become legendary. We have amassed an array of wines from Lyrarakis and Alexakis wineries for you to wander through. They are amazing.
2018 Lyrarakis Legacy White $13
75% Muscat of Spina, 25% Vidiano
Bright and lively pale yellow color. Mature aromas of grapefruit and stone fruit with a presence of rose petals. Finely balanced with good acidity and plushy finish.
2018 Lyrarakis Vilana Pirovlikes $20
100% Vilana
The white grape variety Vilana is indisputably a classic of the vineyard of Crete. Citrus-fruit and flower aromas, full taste with a refreshing acidity are the characteristics of this wine, produced from vineyards at an altitude of 500m. Citrus and white-fleshed fruits with floral hints. Full body with good acidity.
2021 Lyrarakis Psardes $22
100% Dafni
The Dafní grape variety was saved from extinction by the Lyrarakis family, when it was planted in the “Psarades” family vineyard at 480m altitude in central Crete in the early ’90s. The wine has a distinctive aromatic Bay leaf & herbal character, refreshing mouthfeel and intense herbal aſtertaste, in a citrus fruit background.
2020 Lyrarakis Psarades Plyto $20
The Plytó grape variety was saved from extinction by the Lyrarakis family, when it was planted in the “Psarades” family vineyard at 480m altitude in central Crete in the early ’90s. An elegant wine, with clean fruity aromas of high intensity, a full and versatile mouthfeel, and a noble tannic style that balances its taste.
2020 Alexakis Assyrtiko $20
From the Alexakis winery this Assyrtiko’s bouquet displays aromas of passion fruit, mango and citrus. It has a balanced taste with crispy acidity and a characteristic minerality around the palate and a long and lasting finish.
2017 Lyrarakis Legacy Red $15
25% Kotsifali, 75% Syrah,
Delicate balance highlighted by blueberries, sweet spices and fresh herbs. Rich and soft with fruity flavors, elegant tannins and piquant aftertaste.
2016 Lyrarakis Karnari Kotsifali $25
100% Kotsifali, an indigenous variety that results in pale red wines with rich flavor. The Karnari estate vineyard is located in central Crête, at 250 meters above sea level. Its sweet fruit and spice notes are developed over long ageing in used barrels. The noble influence of oxygen, both in the aroma and flavor of the wine, is well integrated, providing complexity and stability to the wine.