From the sun-kissed hills of Dafnes on the island of Crete comes one of Greece’s most exciting native white grapes – Vidiano. Once nearly forgotten, it has been revived by pioneering estates like Douloufakis.
We’re delighted to introduce two distinctive expressions of Vidiano from Nikos Douloufakis, each showcasing the elegance, richness and versatility of this remarkable variety.
‘Think of a Mediterranean white with the elegance of Viognier and the structure of Assyrtiko’.
Nikos Douloufakis – Winemaker
2024 Vidiano ‘Dafnios’
“Douloufakis was the estate that resuscitated Vidiano from a scant 10 hectares at the turn of the 20th century. The estate now farms a total of 25ha organically with a strong focus on Vidiano grown on Crete’s abundant limestone. Although famous for the single-vineyard, barrel-fermented Aspros Lagos, this steel-fermented wine is a brilliant introduction to the variety. Fleshy and bold with some of the richness and decadence of Viognier, with attractive flavours of fresh peach, melon and apricot, but the palate is a completely different game: alert, spicy, structured by notable acidity and with real drive and concentration through to the finish.”
92 Points – Decanter
2024 Vidiano ‘Aspros Lagos’
Apros Lagos Vineyard
Aspros Lagós, or “White Hare,” is a hillside vineyard in Dafnes, Crete, situated at 350 m altitude on calcareous clay-loam soils. The site’s gentle slopes and well-drained soils provide ideal conditions for Vidiano, giving the grapes both structure and freshness. The limestone-rich soils lend a subtle mineral backbone, while the clay-loam retains enough moisture to support texture and mid-palate weight, producing grapes that reflect both the vineyard’s heritage and its terroir.
Fermented initially in stainless steel and completed in barrels, the wine then matures for five months in new and second-use barrels, 60% French oak and 40% acacia. “Pretty floral aromatics, with the acacia wood elements perfectly enhancing the fruit characteristics. White peach and ripe nectarine, a hint of yuzu sorbet.” Delicious.
95 Points – Decanter