Our producers
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Douloufakis Winery
Nestled in the hills of Dafnes, south of Heraklion, Douloufakis Winery embodies the nobility of winegrowing Crete.
The soul of Cretan wine, between tradition and excellence
For three generations, the Douloufakis family has sublimated a high-altitude terroir where the vines breathe sunshine, southern winds and the memory of an island that has been producing wine for 4,000 years.
Under the direction of Nikos Douloufakis, an oenologist trained in Conegliano, Italy, the estate blends Cretan heritage with modern rigor. Each bottle is the result of a masterful process in which nature guides the winemaker’s hand. Here, nothing is left to chance: from the pruning of the vines to the pressing, every gesture reflects a respect for fruit and time.
A high-altitude terroir shaped by Cretan light
The vineyards stretch across the limestone hills of Dafnes, between 300 and 450 meters above sea level. This mineral-rich soil, swept by winds from the Libyan Sea, gives the grapes slow ripening and remarkable freshness.
The native Vidiano variety, emblematic of the estate, expresses notes of white peach, flowers and fine honey. Liatiko, the historic red variety, reveals aromas of dried fruit, sweet spices and warm earth. As for Kotsifali and Syrah, they demonstrate a rare balance between power and elegance.
Each vintage tells the story of Crete: intense, sunny, yet remarkably precise.
Award-winning wines from around the world
Dafnios White and Dafnios Red embody the Douloufakis philosophy of authenticity, purity and immediate pleasure. The white charms with its velvety texture and mineral brilliance, while the red seduces with its silky structure and caressing tannins.
The Sangiovese Crete PGI, surprising and refined, bridges the gap between the Mediterranean and Northern Italy, a nod to Nikos’ training.
Sweet Liatiko, meanwhile, evokes the warmth of the South in an explosion of candied figs and roasted dates.
The estate’s wines regularly win awards: gold medals at the Decanter World Wine Awards, distinctions at the Concours de Berlin and the Challenge International du Vin. Each accolade celebrates the consistency of a house that has become an emblem of winegrowing Crete.
An experience to enjoy: tours, tastings and olive oil
To visit Douloufakis Winery is to plunge into a world where wine becomes language. The estate welcomes travelers in a warm atmosphere, between vaulted cellar and panorama of golden vines.
Several tasting packages with commentary are available:
Introduction to Cretan grape varieties with 4 to 6 emblematic wines.
Premium tasting of rare vintages and old vintages.
Combined wine & olive oil experience, a total immersion in Cretan gastronomy.
Each session reveals the secrets of the terroir, while inviting you to relax with a glass in hand, facing the hills bathed in light.
Why discover Douloufakis Winery?
Because the estate combines authenticity and refinement.
Because he elevates Cretan viticulture to an art form.
Because it offers sincere, rare and inspiring hospitality.
Because here, every sip tells the story of land, family and passion.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about Cretan wine and Douloufakis Winery
Which Cretan wines are produced at Douloufakis?
The estate mainly grows Vidiano, Liatiko, Kotsifali, Syrah and Chardonnay. Each grape variety is cultivated separately to preserve its identity.
Can we visit the estate all year round?
Yes, Douloufakis Winery welcomes visitors almost all year round. Reservations are recommended, especially in summer, to ensure a personalized experience.
What makes Vidiano wine special?
This autochthonous grape offers a full texture and aromas of apricot, pear and white flowers. It is often compared to Viognier for its aromatic finesse.
Are there olive oil tastings at the estate?
Yes, visitors can discover the local oils produced in the Dafnes region. They are the perfect complement to the oenological experience.
