Wines of Crete Hosts Educational Seminars in New York & Washington, D.C.

Stella Astirakaki, Wines of Crete, Alexandra Manousakis, Nostos Wines and Maria Titaki, Titakis Wines

New Wines of Greece and Wines of Crete hosted educational tastings for trade and media in New York and Washington, D.C. June 9 and 11. Guest speaker Joe Roberts, www.1WineDude.com, discussed Crete’s history in wine production and its native varietals. Guests tasted a selection of more than 20 with lunch.

Wine production in Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, dates back to 2000 B.C. to ancient Minoan civilization. The most widely planted indigenous varietals in Crete Vilana, a white grape, and Kostifali, a low tannin red which is frequently used as a base for blending. Other local varietals include whites: Vidiano, Daphni, Plyto, Thrapsathiri, Malvazia di Candia, and Spina Muscat. Indigenous red varietals include Mandilari, Romeiko and Liatiko, which produces delightful sweet wines. International varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc, Roussanne, Chardonnay, Syrah, Mourvedre, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, are also grown in Crete.

To educate consumers on Crete’s winemaking history and varietals, Wines from Crete offers a free application for both the iPhone and Android: www.winesofcrete.gr www.newwinesofgreece.com