With its diverse terroirs, hot Mediterranean climate, and abundance of indigenous grape varieties, it is no surprise that Greece is a successful wine producing country and has been for millennia.
Although Agiorgitiko, Assyrtiko, Moschofilero and Xinomavro are perhaps some of the best known of the more than 200 indigenous grape varieties across Greece and its islands, here are a couple of wines from Crete that bring something extra special to the table.
Lyrarakis, Psarades Dafni (2025)
Dafni, which is the Greek word for laurel, is a quintessential Cretan grape variety. Though an ancient grape variety cultivated for thousands of years, it had become almost extinct until it was resurrected by the Lyrarakis family winery in the 1990s.
This is a dry wine with laurel, fennel and thyme on the nose, and citrus and herbal flavours on the palette. A refreshing, aromatic wine that immediately transports you to its Cretan birthplace.
It can be enjoyed by itself or paired with a fish, seafood, chicken or salad dish.
Available from Cambridge Wine Merchants, The Good Wine Shop, Hay Wines (£19.99)
Diamantakis, Vidiano (2022)
Vidiano is another Cretan indigenous grape variety and produces wines with a creamy texture, moderate acidity, and citrus and stone-fruit flavours.
This wine from vineyards in the foothills of Mt Psiloritis is a delightfully refreshing wine with aromas of ripe stone-fruit – apricot, peach and nectarine – and flavours of apple, pear, melon and peach, with a hint of almond, on the palate.
With its rich velvety texture, round mouthfeel and crisp acidity, this is a wine which can be enjoyed as an aperitif, or with grilled fish or light salad.
Available from Cambridge Wine Merchants, WoodWinters  (£17-17.99)
