The Cycle of the Cretan Grape

Summary Description

Explore Crete's winemaking heritage with a visit to a local vineyard, winery, and raki distillery. Taste exquisite wines, savor raki and rakomelo, and learn the production process behind these iconic beverages in a memorable experience. 

Highlights
  • Discover Crete's Wine Heritage
  • Explore Iconic Cretan Raki
  • Wine Culture in Chania
  • Learn Traditional Winemaking Techniques
  • Enjoy Raki and Rakomelo Flavors
Description

Embark on a captivating journey through Crete’s rich winemaking traditions. Start at a local vineyard, where you’ll discover the life cycle of the famous Cretan grape, from vine to wine. Learn about the processes that go into cultivating and harvesting grapes in the island’s diverse terroir, and how generations of expertise have shaped Crete’s wine culture.
Visit a charming winery where you can indulge in a tasting session, savoring the unique flavors and aromas of local wines, each reflecting the island’s history and landscape.
The experience continues at a traditional raki distillery, where you’ll be introduced to the bold character of raki, a beloved Cretan spirit. Enjoy a tasting of raki and rakomelo—a sweet blend of raki and honey enhanced with warming spices. 
Conclude your tour by gaining insight into the distillation and aging processes that give these beverages their distinct appeal. This immersive experience is a true celebration of Crete’s wine and spirit culture.

Embark on a captivating journey through the life cycle of the renowned Cretan grape, discovering its transformation from lush vineyards to exquisite wines and spirits. This immersive experience invites you to delve into the rich traditions of Cretan viticulture, where generations of expertise have cultivated a unique winemaking heritage that stands as a testament to the island's deep connection with nature and the art of winemaking.

 As you traverse the picturesque vineyards spread across Crete's diverse landscapes, you'll gain insight into the meticulous care and dedication involved in nurturing the grapevines. Each vine is a living testament to the island's favorable climate and fertile soil, which together create a perfect environment for producing high-quality grapes. From the early days of budding and flowering to the much-anticipated harvest season, every stage of the grape's development is a vital chapter in the story of Cretan winemaking.

 Indulge in a tasting experience that highlights the finest local wines, each bottle a reflection of the island's multifaceted terroir. The flavors and aromas of these wines are as varied as the landscapes they come from, offering a sensory journey that captures the essence of Crete. Whether it's a crisp white wine with citrus undertones, a robust red with notes of ripe berries, or a delicate rosé that hints at summer fruits, each sip is a celebration of the island's vinous diversity.

 No exploration of Cretan viticulture would be complete without savoring the iconic raki, a traditional grape spirit known for its bold character and cultural significance. This potent yet smooth beverage is a staple in Cretan hospitality, often served as a gesture of welcome and friendship. To add a sweeter twist, indulge in rakomelo, a delightful concoction that blends raki with honey and warming spices. This aromatic drink, typically enjoyed warm, is perfect for cool evenings and offers a comforting taste of Cretan tradition.

 Learn the intricate processes behind the production of these cherished beverages, from the careful selection and harvesting of grapes to the complex stages of fermentation, distillation, and aging. Witness the transformation of simple grape juice into sophisticated wines and spirits through techniques passed down through generations, each winemaker adding their unique touch to this timeless craft.

 Surprise your palate with the vibrant flavors of Crete, and deepen your appreciation for the artistry and passion that go into every bottle. This journey through Cretan viticulture is not just an exploration of taste but a cultural immersion that honors the island's heritage and celebrates the enduring legacy of its winemaking traditions. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveler, this experience promises to leave you with a newfound respect for the remarkable journey from vineyard to glass.

Included / Excluded
  • Personal pick up & drop off
  • A chauffeured premium vehicle
  • Professional driver/escort and wine specialists
  • Wine and food tastings
  • Raki and rakomelo tastings
  • Gratuities
  • Additional food and drinks
  • Personal expenses
Start / End Locations

Start Location: Chania, Greece

Commentary

Guide : English

Important Information
Know Before You Book
  • This tour starts from Chania
  • We pick you up from your hotel's lobby
  • Pick up from other regions of Crete will have extra costs
Know Before You Go
  • Children must always be accompanied by an adult
  • Alcohol tasting is not allowed for children under 18 years old
  • Wheelchair accessible
Cancellation

Cancellation Cutoff: 24 days

Cancellation Notes: Up to 7 days before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 7 days before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund

Options and Pricing
The Cycle of the Cretan Grape RETAIL PRICE
Adult (0 - 99 years) N/A
Terms and Conditions

Children must always be accompanied by an adult, Not wheelchair accessible, Wine tasting is not allowed for children under 18 years old. Water or fresh orange juice will be offered instead., The company reserves the right to make minor changes in the program when this is considered necessary, for example in case of unfavorable weather conditions. This can be done without prior notice., Reservations must be made 12 hours before the tour. A cancellation must be done 24 hours before the tour for a refund. In case of later cancellations, no refund will be made from the company., If a tour is cancelled due to low participation or bad weather conditions, the company will refund 100% of made payments, In case of allergies, tolerances or food preferences please inform the company in advance.

Additional Information

The company reserves the right to make minor changes in the program when this is considered necessary, for example in case of unfavorable weather conditions. This can be done without prior notice., Reservations must be made 12 hours before the tour. A cancellation must be done 24 hours before the tour for a refund. In case of later cancellations, no refund will be made from the company., If a tour is cancelled due to low participation or bad weather conditions, the company will refund 100% of made payments, In case of allergies, tolerances or food preferences please inform the company in advance.

About operator:


Fabulous Crete – Alternative Tourism Network


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Basic Information
  • Duration: 7 hours
  • Trip difficulty: Easy
  • Category: Food & Drink
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