Domaine Lyrarakis Liatiko Aggelis

The “Aggelis” vineyard, planted on native rootstock of the Liatiko grape, highlights the authenticity and wealth of eastern Crete.

The low yields lead to small grapes, of exceptionally high berry density, which are then vinified, almost uncrushed, in small vats.

Respect to natural micro-flora that defines fermentations, results in a rare wine, characterized by a self-sufficient flavor and aromatic fullness. Notes of dried cherry, wild herbs and allspice are underpinned by lively acidity and firm tannins.

Winemaking

The 'Aggelis' vineyard, planted in the 1930's, with ownrooted Liatiko vines, highlights the authenticity and wealth of Eastern Crete. The low yields lead to small grapes, with great intensity of flavour.

Harvesting was performed in 2 passes over 3 weeks. Fermentation occurs by indigenous yeasts. The bunches are fermented almost whole, in open 9-year-old oak barrels in quantities that do not exceed 240 kilos.

This wine is made with no temperature control for fermentation, no finings and no cold treatment. Balanced structure with fresh acidity and a firm aftertaste with rounded tannins.

Producer

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 area’s 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 Plytó, Dafni, and Vidiano, that it rescued from extinction.

The winery’s extensive portfolio consists of a range of monovarietal wines (Vidiano, Plytó, 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.

Domaine Lyrarakis Liatiko Aggelis - Hay Wines

Collection: Grape Variety - Red Grapes - Liatiko

Domaine Lyrarakis Liatiko Aggelis 2021