Vineyards, grape harvest, grape pressing, wine...
These words are deeply connected to the land and traditions of Crete. The island boasts a proud winemaking heritage, with exquisite varieties and labels recognized beyond Greek borders.

If you're in Heraklion and wish to explore the world of wine without straying too far from the city, here are five fantastic choices:

Hetero Wines

Just a stone's throw from the city center, Hetero Wines is so close that you can walk there if you’re already wandering through the Heraklion marketplace. The winery offers a vast selection of their own wines, as well as a delightful journey across the winemaking regions of Greece.

Douloufakis Winery

In the village of Dafnes, an area renowned for its wine production, you’ll find the Douloufakis Winery. Here, you can sample either 4 or 6 different wine labels, each cultivated in a unique terroir that enhances their flavors.

Alexakis Winery

Head to Agios Thomas, a large village in the Heraklion region, to visit Alexakis Winery, the largest private winery in Crete. They offer an exceptional wine-tasting experience that showcases their remarkable production.

Boutari Winery

Located in Skalani, just 4 km from the iconic Knossos Palace, the Boutari Winery is home to an impressive wine cellar and a stunning tasting room. It’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Cretan wine culture.

Silva Daskalakis Winery

In the heart of Heraklion’s countryside, in the village of Siva, Silva Daskalakis Winery offers five different guided tour programs. Whether you're new to wine or a seasoned connoisseur, the tours provide a deep dive into the art of winemaking.

Whichever winery you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a taste of Crete’s rich viticultural tradition!

Photo by Khuc Le Thanh Danh on Unsplash