Best Wineries in Lassithi – Crete

The region of Lassithi on eastern Crete is one of the most remote and undiscovered by domestic and international visitors. It is an unspoilt paradise with stunning beaches and a great place to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds. As a wine tourism destination, the starring winemaking zone in Lasithi is that of Sitia. Here one will find the largest Union of Agricultural Cooperatives that produces wines of both VSOP (registered product of superior quality) and PGI status. Of great importance is the historic monastic site of Toplou, with its organic wines.

In this region, the “Wine Roads” go by major attractions such as the ancient city of Itanos, the palm-tree forest by the beach at Vai, and the Minoan palace at Zakros.

Winery in Toplou Monastery

The Holy Monastery of Panagia Akrotiriani and Agios Ioannis the Theologian Toplou Sitia was built in the 14th century and since then has always had an active presence in the social and viticultural history of the place. It cultivates organic vines and olives and produces tsikoudia wine and olive oil that are standardized and available in the local and international market. Apart from the white Thrapsathiri and Vilana and the red Merlot – Syrah which have already become points of reference, the sweet red wine from sun-dried grapes of the Liatiko variety is also exceptional and something different to try. The cultivation of the vineyards of the monastery is done with certified biological methods and the selection of the varieties has been made based on the special characteristics of the area. Visits to the winery of the monastery can be arranged.

📍 Moni Toplou, 72300, Sitia
☎ +30 28430 29630

Sitia Union Winery

The winery of the Union of Agricultural Cooperatives of Sitia produces OPAP wines. (designation of origin of superior quality) and P.G.E. (protected geographical indication). The wines are mostly white and dry, from indigenous varieties such as Liatiko, Mandilari, Vilana, and Thrapsathiri that grow in mountainous areas of Sitia. If you love sweet dessert wines, you must try Sitia OPAP produced from the Liatiko variety.

📍 1st km National Road of Sitia to Agios Nikolaos, Lassithi, Crete, Greece, 72300
☎ +30 28430 29991
🔗 sitiaunion.gr