Our local partners
Domaine Paterianakis
Located near Heraklion, Domaine Paterianakis is one of the pioneers of Cretan organic viticulture, combining indigenous grape varieties, family know-how and wine tourism experiences in an unspoilt mountain environment.
A family history rooted in Cretan viticulture
Founded by Emmanuel Paterianakis, the estate today represents the third generation of a family committed to viticulture that is attentive to biodiversity, the soil and Cretan grape varieties.
The official website clearly indicates the orientation: production of certified organic wines, from plots located at high altitude in Heraklion’s hinterland.
The philosophy is based on a combination of ancient viticultural heritage and contemporary vision: local grape varieties, controlled fermentation, minimal intervention, respect for Cretan nature.
A certified organic estate dedicated to indigenous grape varieties
Domaine Paterianakis is recognized as the first certified organic Cretan estate in its region.
The production is based on Cretan varieties:
Vidiano, the emblematic grape variety that has become the standard-bearer for a new generation of Cretan white wines;
Plyto, a rare and long-threatened variety, has been revived thanks to the work of winemakers such as Paterianakis ;
Kotsifali, a Cretan red grape variety with typical notes of spices and ripe fruit.
In addition, international grape varieties are used sparingly to complement certain cuvées.
The mountainous setting, altitude and organic management of the vineyards produce well-balanced wines with a structural freshness that is rare in a Mediterranean climate.
Wines, spirits and crafts
While wine is the heart of the estate, Paterianakis also produces :
raki / tsikoudia distilled in the Cretan tradition;
liqueurs, made from local fruits and plants;
olive oil from their own plots;
products from the family farm.
This diversification does not weaken the estate’s identity: it reflects the Cretan tradition of exploiting every element of the terroir.
Our cuvées – reds, whites, rosés, single varietals and blends – are distinguished by their sober aromas, balanced structure and emphasis on typicity rather than power.
Wine tourism: tastings, tours and immersion in the Cretan landscape
The estate doesn’t limit itself to production: it welcomes visitors and enthusiasts for guided tastings, vineyard tours and wine tourism experiences in the heart of the Cretan hills.
Experiences include :
vertical tastings of cuvées ;
discovering Cretan grape varieties;
vineyard tours ;
tour of the winery and facilities ;
groups and private events.
All this takes place in a quiet setting, far from the massive tourist areas, which reinforces the impression of authenticity.
Visitors can learn all about Cretan viticulture: soils, exposure, harvesting, ageing, ancient grape varieties and local traditions.
An estate that raises the bar for Cretan identity
Paterianakis occupies a special place in Cretan viticulture:
a pioneer in organic certification,
an advocate of indigenous grape varieties,
stable producer with a clear identity,
structured wine tourism player,
a family domain where transmission remains essential.
Its positioning illustrates the rise in quality of Cretan wines over the last twenty years: a return to local varieties, technical precision, a visit to a terroir that is still too little known outside Greece.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about wine tastings and wineries in Crete
Where to go wine-tasting in Crete near Heraklion?
Travelers often look for estates located around Heraklion, in the central wine-growing areas, accessible by car or cab.
What grape varieties are found in Cretan wines?
The most typical are Vidiano, Plyto, Liatiko, Kotsifali and Mandilari, local varieties that are promoted on the island’s estates.
How much does a wine tasting in Crete cost?
Tastings generally range from €10 to €25, depending on the number of wines and the visit to the winery or vineyard.
Should I book a tasting at a Cretan estate?
Yes, most estates require a reservation, especially during the high tourist season.
Do Cretan estates offer organic wines?
Yes, several estates, some of them pioneers, have turned to organic or biodynamic viticulture, reflecting the qualitative evolution of Cretan vineyards.
