Discover Crete's Best Wineries and Distilleries: A Taste of Tradition

A Traveler's Guide to Crete’s Best Distilleries and Wineries

Crete is a land of breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and unparalleled cultural richness. But perhaps its most captivating treasures lie in its wineries and distilleries. From the herb-infused rakis of Knossos to the vibrant Vidiano wines of Siva, the island offers a sensory journey into its traditions. These family-run establishments are more than places to sample fine drinks—they are living stories, where generations have perfected their craft, blending old-world techniques with modern flair. Tucked away in charming villages and surrounded by picturesque vineyards, these wineries and distilleries invite visitors to experience the true essence of Crete. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a raki enthusiast, Crete promises an unforgettable adventure through its spirited heritage.

Silva Daskalaki Winery: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Nestled in the heart of Crete, Silva Daskalaki Winery is a testament to the island’s rich winemaking heritage and a beacon of modern innovation. Located in Siva, a picturesque village near Heraklion, the winery is a family-run establishment that has been crafting exceptional wines for generations. The Daskalaki family began their journey in viticulture with a passion for preserving Cretan traditions, and today, under the guidance of Dimitris and Stella Daskalaki, they have elevated the winery to international acclaim.

The estate is surrounded by sprawling vineyards that benefit from Crete’s unique terroir—a combination of fertile soil, abundant sunshine, and cooling sea breezes. Silva Daskalaki Winery is known for its dedication to organic farming and sustainable practices, ensuring that every bottle reflects the purity of the land. With a perfect harmony of old-world techniques and modern technology, this winery offers an authentic yet forward-thinking wine experience.

What's Special About Silva Daskalaki Winery

Silva Daskalaki Winery is renowned for its use of indigenous Cretan grape varieties, such as Vidiano and Liatiko, which produce wines that capture the essence of the island. Their commitment to organic winemaking sets them apart, ensuring every bottle is a celebration of Crete’s natural bounty.

What You Can Do at Silva Daskalaki Winery

"Uncorking Tradition: A Guided Winery Tour"
Embark on a guided tour of the winery, where you’ll explore the vineyards and learn about the organic farming techniques employed by the Daskalaki family. The tour also includes a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process, from grape to glass.

"Sip and Savor: Wine Tasting Experiences"
Join a curated wine tasting session where you’ll sample the estate’s finest creations, paired with local cheeses, olives, and artisanal bread. Each wine is introduced with its unique story, making it a journey for the palate and mind.

"Blend Your Own Wine: A Hands-On Workshop"
For an interactive experience, participate in a wine-blending workshop where you can create your own signature blend, guided by the winery’s expert winemakers. This activity offers a deeper appreciation of the art and science of winemaking.

Best to Buy at Silva Daskalaki Winery

• Vidiano White Wine -A crisp, aromatic white wine made from the indigenous Vidiano grape, offering notes of stone fruits and citrus with a balanced acidity.
• Liatiko Red Wine - This ruby-red wine showcases the Liatiko grape’s unique character, with flavors of cherry, plum, and a hint of spice.
• Enstikto Rosé - A delightful rosé with floral and berry aromas, perfect for pairing with light Mediterranean dishes.

Location and How to Get There

Silva Daskalaki Winery is located in the village of Siva, approximately 20 kilometers south of Heraklion. The drive takes around 30 minutes and offers scenic views of Cretan countryside. Public transport is limited, so renting a car or taking a taxi is recommended. Parking is available on-site.

Local Tip

Visit the winery during the harvest season (September–October) to experience the vibrant atmosphere and even participate in grape-picking activities. Pair your wine tasting with a visit to the nearby archaeological site of Knossos for a day filled with history and flavor.

Michael Patsakis Distillery: A Hidden Gem of Traditional Raki Craftsmanship

Tucked away in the serene village of Apostoli, Crete, the Michael Patsakis Distillery is a family-run treasure that embodies the island’s centuries-old raki-making tradition. Michael Patsakis, a passionate distiller, inherited the craft from his father and grandfather, who taught him the secrets of creating authentic, high-quality raki. The distillery’s legacy stretches back over a century, blending traditional techniques with Michael’s personal innovations to create a spirit that’s uniquely Cretan.

Located amidst olive groves and vineyards, the distillery is a small but vibrant hub where locals and visitors alike gather to celebrate the art of distillation. Michael is not just a distiller but also a storyteller, sharing fascinating anecdotes about his family’s journey and the myths surrounding raki production. His distillery is a place where every batch has a story, and every sip carries the essence of Crete.

What's Special About Michael Patsakis Distillery

Michael Patsakis Distillery is renowned for its commitment to tradition, using copper stills and wood-fired heating methods. The distillery also experiments with herb-infused rakis, creating a variety of unique flavors.

What You Can Do at Michael Patsakis Distillery

"Distillation in Action: A Live Demonstration"
Witness the raki-making process up close as Michael guides you through the distillation. From crushing the grapes to the final distillation, this hands-on experience showcases the artistry behind every bottle.

"Raki Tasting and Pairing: A Flavor Journey"
Enjoy a guided tasting session where you’ll sample the distillery’s signature rakis, including herb-infused and honey varieties. Pair them with local delicacies like dakos, olives, and cheeses for an unforgettable flavor experience.

"Stories and Spirits: Raki Myths Unveiled"
Gather around for a storytelling session with Michael, where he shares legends and folklore tied to raki production in Crete, blending humor, history, and tradition.

Best to Buy at Michael Patsakis Distillery

• Thyme-Infused Raki - A herbal delight with the aromatic essence of wild thyme, offering a smooth and fragrant taste.
• Honey Raki - Sweet and warming, this variety is infused with Cretan honey for a velvety finish.
• Classic Raki - A pure, traditional raki that embodies the authentic flavors of Crete’s finest grapes.

Location and How to Get There

Michael Patsakis Distillery is located in the village of Apostoli, approximately 35 kilometers from Heraklion. The scenic drive through the countryside takes about 45 minutes. The village is accessible by car, and there is ample parking available near the distillery.

Local Tip

Visit during the autumn distillation season to see the process in full swing and enjoy freshly distilled raki. Michael often shares fresh batches with visitors, paired with seasonal mezedes (snacks).

The Karavitakis Winery: Where Tradition Meets Modern Elegance

Nestled in the charming Pontikiana Village, within the municipality of Platanias in Chania, The Karavitakis Winery is a captivating fusion of Crete’s deep-rooted winemaking traditions and modern innovation. This family-run winery is a labor of love, passed down through generations, and has become a beacon for wine enthusiasts on the island.

Manolis Karavitakis, the visionary behind the winery, inherited his passion for winemaking from his father. While respecting traditional methods, Manolis has embraced modern techniques and sustainable practices to create wines that balance heritage with contemporary flair. Surrounded by lush vineyards and olive groves, the winery offers an idyllic setting where visitors can immerse themselves in the story of Cretan wine.

What's Special About Karavitakis Winery

The winery is celebrated for its dedication to sustainability and its innovative approach to blending indigenous and international grape varieties. Each bottle reflects the unique terroir of Pontikiana Village and the family's commitment to excellence.

What You Can Do at Karavitakis Winery

"From Vineyards to Bottles: A Guided Tour of the Estate"
Explore the scenic vineyards and learn about the winery’s sustainable farming practices and the intricacies of the winemaking process. A guided tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at this renowned estate.

"A Toast to Crete: Wine Tasting Sessions"
Savor the best of Karavitakis wines with a professional tasting experience. Sample award-winning whites, reds, and rosés, paired with local cheeses, olives, and traditional bread.

"Blend Like a Pro: A Hands-On Wine Workshop"
Participate in a unique workshop where you’ll learn to craft your own wine blend. This interactive session is perfect for wine lovers who want to deepen their understanding of winemaking.

Best to Buy at Karavitakis Winery

1. Elia Vidiano - A standout white wine made from the indigenous Vidiano grape, known for its floral aromas and refreshing citrus flavors.
2. Mavro Merlot - A bold red wine that combines the smoothness of Merlot with the richness of local Cretan grapes.
3. The Little Prince (Red or White) - A fan-favorite blend that perfectly balances tradition and modernity, offering a delightful drinking experience.

Location and How to Get There

The Karavitakis Winery is located in Pontikiana Village, within the municipality of Platanias, Chania. It’s approximately 30 kilometers from Chania city center, and the drive takes about 35 minutes. Follow the signs from the main Chania-Kolymbari road to Pontikiana Village. Ample parking is available at the winery.

Local Tip

Plan your visit during the late afternoon to enjoy the peaceful ambiance and scenic views as the sun sets over the vineyards. The staff’s warmth and knowledge make the experience even more memorable, so don’t hesitate to ask for pairing tips or Cretan wine insights.

Knossos Faskomilia Distillery: The Essence of Crete in Every Drop

Hidden in the lush countryside near the iconic archaeological site of Knossos, Knossos Faskomilia Distillery is a haven for those who wish to experience Crete's rich heritage through its most beloved spirit: raki. This family-owned distillery has been crafting exceptional spirits for over three generations, blending traditional techniques with a passion for innovation. The distillery takes its name from the sage ("faskomilia" in Greek) that grows abundantly in the region and plays a vital role in their unique raki recipes.

Run by Maria and Nikos Papadakis, the distillery’s story is one of love and dedication. Maria, a botanist, introduced the idea of infusing local herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary into raki, while Nikos preserves the family’s traditional methods of distillation. Together, they’ve created a one-of-a-kind distillery that offers more than just a drink—it’s a taste of Crete’s natural and cultural heritage.

What's Special About Knossos Faskomilia Distillery

The distillery is renowned for its herb-infused raki, with flavors inspired by the surrounding Cretan flora. Their signature sage-infused raki is a unique creation that pays homage to the region’s natural abundance.

What You Can Do at Knossos Faskomilia Distillery

"Distilling the Past: A Guided Tour of the Distillery"
Discover the art of raki-making with a guided tour of the distillery. Learn about the traditional copper stills and how local herbs are carefully selected and infused to create their signature flavors.

"Herbal Raki Tasting: A Journey Through Nature"
Enjoy a curated tasting session where you’ll sample herb-infused raki varieties, each paired with local snacks like graviera cheese and olives. Maria will share the story behind each flavor, making it a sensory delight.

"Wild Herb Foraging and Raki Workshop"
Join Maria for a herb-foraging adventure in the countryside, followed by a hands-on workshop where you’ll craft your own herb-infused raki blend to take home.

Best to Buy at Knossos Faskomilia Distillery

1. Sage-Infused Raki - The distillery’s signature drink, offering an aromatic and smooth spirit with subtle herbal notes.
2. Thyme and Honey Raki - A sweet and fragrant variety made with thyme and local Cretan honey, perfect as a digestif.
3. Classic Raki - A pure, unflavored raki that highlights the quality of the distillation process and the region’s finest grapes.

Location and How to Get There

Knossos Faskomilia Distillery is located near the village of Skalani, just 5 kilometers from the archaeological site of Knossos and 10 kilometers from Heraklion. It’s easily accessible by car or taxi from Heraklion, and parking is available on-site.

Local Tip

Combine your visit to the distillery with a trip to the Knossos Palace to make a day of history and culture. Be sure to try their sage-infused raki on-site—it’s even better when enjoyed with a view of the surrounding countryside.

‍Karoni Distillery: A Cretan Legacy of Authentic Raki Craftsmanship

Nestled in the tranquil village of Melidoni, the Karoni Distillery is a family-run gem that celebrates Crete’s age-old tradition of raki production. With over a century of experience, the Karoni family has perfected the art of crafting raki, passing down techniques from one generation to the next. Today, the distillery is managed by Antonis Karoni, a master distiller whose passion for his craft is evident in every bottle.

The distillery’s location in Melidoni, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, offers the perfect backdrop for raki production. Antonis honors traditional distillation methods while incorporating a modern touch, ensuring that every batch of raki reflects the heritage and flavors of Crete. The distillery is not just a place to produce spirits but a hub for storytelling, where visitors can immerse themselves in the cultural and historical essence of the island.

What's Special About Karoni Distillery

Karoni Distillery is renowned for its artisanal raki, made exclusively from sun-ripened, organic Cretan grapes. The distillery also produces unique herb- and fruit-infused rakis that stand out for their balanced and distinctive flavors.

What You Can Do at Karoni Distillery

"Behind the Scenes: A Tour of Tradition"
Take a guided tour through the distillery, learning about the distillation process, the history of raki in Crete, and the family's century-old methods of production.

"Flavors of Crete: A Raki Tasting Journey"
Enjoy a curated tasting experience featuring the distillery’s classic and infused rakis. Each tasting is paired with traditional Cretan snacks such as paximadi (rusk bread), olives, and graviera cheese.

"From Grape to Glass: A Harvest Experience"
During harvest season, join the Karoni family in the vineyards to pick grapes and witness the early stages of raki production. This immersive activity is perfect for those wanting to experience raki-making from the ground up.

Best to Buy at Karoni Distillery

1. Traditional Raki - A pure and smooth raki made from the finest organic grapes, showcasing the distillery’s dedication to quality.
2. Herb-Infused Raki - A signature creation infused with local herbs like thyme and oregano, offering a refreshing and aromatic twist.
3. Citrus Raki - A zesty and vibrant raki made with oranges and lemons grown in the surrounding groves, perfect for sipping on a warm day.

Location and How to Get There

Karonis Distillery is located in the Palamidi Castle area of Nafplion, a historic town in Greece’s Peloponnese region. It’s easily accessible from the Nafplion town center, just a 5-minute drive or a 20-minute walk along scenic routes. If you’re arriving by car, parking is available nearby. The distillery’s location near the iconic Palamidi Castle makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the area's historical landmarks.

Local Tip

Visit in autumn during the harvest and distillation season for the most engaging experience. Antonis often invites visitors to sample freshly distilled raki straight from the stills, offering a taste of Cretan hospitality at its finest.

‍35N Cretan Distillery: Modern Craftsmanship Rooted in Tradition

Situated in the scenic village of Melesses, just a short drive from Heraklion, 35N Cretan Distillery blends contemporary innovation with Crete’s time-honored distillation traditions. Named after the island's latitude, which plays a pivotal role in its climate and agricultural abundance, this distillery is a celebration of Crete’s unique terroir.

Founded by brothers Yannis and Stelios Papadakis, the distillery was born from their passion for preserving their family’s raki-making heritage while crafting a modern take on the iconic Cretan spirit. The distillery specializes in premium raki and rakomelo (honey raki) made from handpicked local ingredients, offering a fresh perspective on traditional Cretan flavors. With sleek facilities surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, 35N Cretan Distillery is a must-visit for those seeking a sophisticated yet authentic experience.

What's Special About 35N Cretan Distillery

35N is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail, producing small-batch, high-quality raki using locally sourced grapes. The distillery’s sleek, modern aesthetic contrasts beautifully with its deep connection to Crete’s ancient traditions.

What You Can Do at 35N Cretan Distillery

"Explore the Latitude: A Modern Distillery Tour"
Take a guided tour of the state-of-the-art distillery to see how traditional raki-making techniques are harmonized with modern innovation. Learn about the unique processes and ingredients that make their spirits exceptional.

"Taste the Latitude: A Gourmet Raki Tasting"
Enjoy a premium tasting experience featuring the distillery’s finest rakis and rakomelo. Each tasting is paired with local Cretan delicacies, like artisan cheeses, honey, and olives.

"Craft Your Spirit: A Distillation Workshop"
Participate in a hands-on distillation workshop where you’ll learn the intricacies of creating raki and even distill your own mini batch to take home as a personalized keepsake.

Best to Buy at 35N Cretan Distillery

1. Premium Raki -Their signature raki is smooth, refined, and distilled from the island’s finest organic grapes, perfect for sipping neat or as a base for cocktails.
2. Rakomelo (Honey Raki) -A crowd favorite, this sweet, warming drink combines raki with Cretan honey and spices like cinnamon and clove.
3. Herb-Infused Raki - A unique infusion of local herbs such as sage and thyme, creating a fragrant and refreshing twist on the classic spirit.

Location and How to Get There

35N Cretan Distillery is located in Melesses Village, approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Heraklion. The drive takes about 25 minutes, with signs directing visitors to the distillery. Parking is available on-site.

Local Tip

Visit the distillery in the late afternoon to enjoy a tasting session as the golden light of the Cretan sunset bathes the surrounding vineyards. Don’t leave without trying their rakomelo—it’s a delightful souvenir that captures the warmth of Cretan hospitality.

Crete’s wineries and distilleries are not just about wine and raki—they are about connection, culture, and craftsmanship. Each visit offers a deeper understanding of the island’s identity, from the innovation of 35N Cretan Distillery to the timeless traditions of Silva Daskalaki Winery. Whether you’re sipping herb-infused raki by a copper still or sampling award-winning wines under the Cretan sun, these experiences encapsulate the island’s spirit. A journey to Crete is incomplete without exploring these liquid legacies, so raise your glass and toast to Crete’s remarkable flavors and stories.