Experience an authentic journey and discover the rich history of Cretan wine through a tour of one of the largest and most modern wineries in the Balkans. Taste exquisite local varieties such as Thrapsathiri, Vidiano, Liatiko, and Moschato Spinas - from the Cretan land straight to your glass.
Live an authentic tasting experience with us and discover the rich history of Cretan wine, a history that stretches back through the centuries. Your experience includes a tasting of local wines and a guided tour of one of the largest and most modern wineries in the Balkans.
Crete is considered to have some of the oldest vineyards in the world. Here, 4,000 years ago, the Minoans produced and traded wine throughout much of the Mediterranean, as evidenced by the storage jars and wine presses found in archaeological sites. This long-standing tradition continues to this day. The vineyard, wine, and its derivatives still play a leading role in Cretan gastronomy, accompanying locals in their recipes, celebrations, and social occasions.
During the Venetian period (1211–1669), Cretan wine flourished. The Venetians organized wine production and trade on a large scale, exporting the famous “wine of Candia” to ports of the Adriatic, Italy, and across Europe. Cretan wine earned a reputation for high quality and became an important export product that strengthened the island’s economy and shaped a wine culture that remains vibrant today.
During your own experience, after touring the winery’s modern facilities, you will taste local varieties such as Thrapsathiri, Vidiano, Liatiko, and Moschato Spinas, while hearing stories about how Crete’s climate, soil, and people have created a wine with a unique character. Each glass is paired with small bites of local products that highlight the wine’s aromatic and flavor notes.
The wine tasting takes place in a warm and welcoming atmosphere—just like the people of Crete. It is ideal for relaxing, learning, and enjoying. An authentic moment that brings together the island’s culture, tradition, history, and gastronomy.
From the fertile Cretan land, straight to your glass!
The location of the Winery is particularly convenient for tourist excursions, as it can be combined with many places of special interest. Very close to the area you can find several such sites, including the Sculpture Gallery in Venerato, the Monastery of Paliani, the Minoan Wine Presses and the Roman Tombs in Agios Thomas, as well as many Byzantine churches. Further south lie ancient Gortyna—known for the oldest known legislative text in Europe—Zaros, the Minoan Palace of Phaistos, the Archaeological Museum of Messara, the famous Matala, and many more.
Are dietary restrictions or food allergies accommodated?
Yes, most dietary needs (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, nut-free) can be accommodated. Please mention any restrictions when booking so your host can prepare suitable alternatives.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, tours are private—only your group and the local host will be on the tour.
Is the cost of tastings included in the tour price?
Typically, the price covers a set number of food and drink tastings. See the description for exact details on what is included.
What types of food can we expect to try?
These tours feature a range of local specialties. The host will guide you through a variety of authentic bites, though exact dishes vary by destination and season.
Can children join the tour?
Yes, children are welcome. The host can often adjust the pace and tastings to suit younger participants. Let them know any specific needs in advance.
Does the tour include any sightseeing or cultural insights?
Although the focus is on food, some tours also offer interesting background about the local culture and neighborhoods you explore.
Is alcohol included in the tastings?
The tours include locally made alcoholic beverages, such as wine or raki, which are traditionally enjoyed by locals. If you prefer non-alcoholic alternatives or wish to have more alcohol-focused stops, please inform your host in advance.
Do you provide luggage storage?
Luggage storage is generally not provided. If you’re traveling with baggage, it’s best to arrange storage at your hotel or at a local storage facility beforehand.
Is hotel pickup included?
Hotel pickup is not included, as this is a walking tour with a designated meeting point. However, the starting point is chosen to be central and convenient. If you need advice on how to get there, feel free to contact your host in advance.
Can the tour accommodate prams or strollers?
Yes, tour can accommodate prams or strollers, though some areas may be challenging (e.g., cobblestone streets). Let the host know in advance so they can plan accordingly.
Can the tour be rescheduled if we're delayed?
If you expect a delay (e.g., due to flight changes), please contact your host as soon as possible. While the tour schedule itself cannot be altered, we will do our best to accommodate a change of date, subject to availability.
Can we focus on a particular type of cuisine (e.g. desserts, street food, wine)?
Our tour is thoughtfully designed to give participants a well-rounded experience — seeing, learning about, and tasting a variety of local products. If you would like a more specialized tour focused on a particular theme (e.g., desserts, street food, wine), please contact our platform to request availability and pricing for a customized experience.
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Tasting 1: 4 wines
Tasting 2: 5 wines
Tasting 3: 6 wines
Adults 18-99 year old full price, Kids 5-17,99 years old discount -50% (only the guided tour in the winery)
Fill in the booking form to check pricing & availability on your preferred travel date. Our pricing is constantly updated
Reschedule your experience 24 hours before start
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