Get to know: Lyrarakis Vilana Pirovolikes Vineyard 2024
A distinctive Greek white wine made from the Vilana grape, grown high in the hills of central Crete at the historic Pirovolikes vineyard.
Tasting Note
Lyrarakis Vilana Pirovolikes Vineyard is an elegant dry white that balances freshness with layered complexity. Pale yellow in colour, it opens with aromas of citrus peel, white-fleshed fruit, and wild herbs, lifted by subtle spice from barrel ageing. On the palate, the Vilana grape delivers crisp acidity with flavours of tangerine, orchard fruit, and delicate floral notes. A touch of minerality runs through to the finish, giving the wine a clean yet textured character. This is a white wine of real personality, showing why indigenous varieties deserve the spotlight.
Top food pairings:
- Grilled sea bream with lemon and herbs
- Goat with seasonal greens or white sauces
- Seafood pasta with garlic and olive oil
Kate Says
"This wine really takes you to Crete – sunlit hillsides, sea breezes, and that wonderful mix of freshness and spice. Perfect with grilled fish on a relaxed evening."
Producer Info
Lyrarakis Wines is a family-run producer established in 1966 in Crete’s Heraklion region. The winery is renowned for reviving indigenous Greek grapes such as Dafni, Plyto, and Melissaki, and for its pioneering work with Vilana in the Pirovolikes vineyard. Their philosophy is rooted in sustainability – organic practices, regenerative farming, and a deep respect for the island’s unique terroir – all contributing to wines with real character and authenticity.
How it’s made:
- Varieties: 100% Vilana
- Hand-harvested from 30-year-old bush vines at 650m altitude
- 50% whole-bunch crushed with 5 hours’ skin contact
- Fermented in a mix of stainless steel (43%) and oak barrels (57%) at cool temperatures
- Matured for 5 months in re-used French, Acacia, and Caucasian oak barrels on the lees
Good to know:
-
Region: Pirovolikes Vineyard, Crete, Greece
-
Style: White, dry
-
Closure: Cork
-
Vegan: Yes
-
ABV: 12.5%
-
Vintage: 2024
Why we love it:
This Cretan white wine shows the brilliance of the Vilana grape – crisp, aromatic, and gently spiced from barrel ageing. It’s versatile at the table and a great introduction to modern Greek wine.