Domaine Lyrarakis Assyrtiko

Domaine Lyrarakis Assyrtiko is an exemplary wine of outstanding value. Grown at 580 metres altitude in the Voila vineyard there is a definite floral character and a touch of ginger spice with crunchy and zesty citrus fruit (lemon and grapefruit), refreshing minerality and chalky texture to this delicious wine.

The perfect match with grilled fish (especially sardines), all seafood or white meats dishes where lemon flavours are to the fore.Domaine Lyrarakis, established in 1966, is located in the mountainous commune of Alagni (440 metres above sea-level), south of the city of Heraklion, in Crete. The well-preserved 14th-century stone-presses in the fields around the winery are testament to the areas long history of grape-growing and winemaking.

The winery is at the forefront of viticultural innovation, championing obscure local varieties such as the ancient white cultivars of Plyt, Dafni, and Vidiano, that it rescued from extinction.

The winerys extensive portfolio consists of a range of monovarietal wines (Vidiano, Plyt, Mandilari, Assyrtiko, Vilana, Thrapsathiri, Kotsifali) some from single, premium vineyard plots, as well as blends of indigenous and international varieties (such as Syrah, Cabernet and Merlot). Quality remains key and the style emphasises fruit precision, purity and supple texture placing the wines firmly in the modern camp, yet without flamboyance or exaggeration.

Assyrtiko is arguably Greece’s most iconic wine grape variety, grown most famously on the volcanic island of Santorini in the Aegean sea. It has developed a reputation as being a versatile grape variety, and wines are made in a multitude of styles, from fresh, minerally white wines to rich, nutty dessert wines known as Vinsanto.

Assyrtikos from Satorini can tend to be a bit pricey so this wine offers a great value way to try this variety. An Assiyrtiko for beggeners if you like.

Domaine Lyrarakis Assyrtiko – Hay Wines