Beyond Assyrtiko: Discovering the Wines of Paros and Crete

Two Greek islands, indigenous grape varieties and a new generation of winemakers bringing their traditions into the spotlight.

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When you think of Greek wine, Assyrtiko is probably one of the first grapes that comes to mind. Thanks to the volcanic vineyards of Santorini, it has become one of Greece’s most celebrated exports. But beyond this familiar favourite lies a world of indigenous grape varieties, distinctive landscapes and winemaking traditions waiting to be discovered.

With a history of winemaking stretching back thousands of years, Greece is home to an extraordinary diversity of wines. From the windswept vineyards of the Cyclades to the mountainous landscapes of Crete, each region has its own story to tell.

We’re turning our attention to two particularly exciting islands, Paros and Crete, and the wineries putting their native grapes firmly on the map.

Paros: A New Chapter for an Ancient Wine Island

Better known for its whitewashed villages and turquoise waters, Paros has a winemaking heritage that deserves just as much attention. Situated in the heart of the Cyclades, the island’s vineyards are shaped by the Aegean Sea, with coastal breezes, rocky soils and a dry Mediterranean climate giving its wines a distinctive character. At the forefront of the island’s winemaking revival is Paros Farming Community (PFC), a historic agricultural cooperative bringing a fresh perspective to traditional Greek winemaking. Founded in 1929, the cooperative has long supported local farmers. Today, a new generation is breathing fresh life into its vineyards, combining modern winemaking techniques with a deep respect for the island’s heritage. Its wines, produced under the name Seiradi, focus on two indigenous grape varieties: Monemvassia and Mandilaria.

Monemvassia produces expressive white wines, often with fresh citrus notes and a distinctive mineral character, while Mandilaria brings structure, depth and vibrant red fruit to the island’s reds.

Together, they offer a fascinating introduction to the character of Paros: wines that are deeply connected to their origins yet feel distinctly contemporary.

Crete: Where History Meets Modern Winemaking

Turther south, Crete tells a different story.

As Greece’s largest island and one of its most historic wine-producing regions, Crete has been cultivating vines for thousands of years. Today, its winemakers are rediscovering the potential of indigenous grape varieties and bringing renewed attention to the island’s remarkable wine heritage.

Among them is Diamantakis Winery, a family-run estate located in Kato Asites, at the foothills of Mount Psiloritis, southwest of Heraklion.

Established in 2007 by brothers Zacharias, Michalis and Yiannis Diamantakis, the winery combines generations of family winegrowing knowledge with a contemporary approach.

Its vineyards sit at elevations ranging from 240 to 700 metres, where limestone-rich soils, cooler mountain conditions and refreshing sea breezes help shape the wines.

The family places particular emphasis on preserving indigenous varieties, including Vidiano, Liatiko and Mandilaria, allowing each grape to express the distinctive character of the Cretan landscape.

Vidiano, one of Crete’s most exciting white grapes, is known for its aromatic complexity, notes of stone fruit and beautifully rounded texture. Liatiko, meanwhile, offers a completely different expression of the island, producing elegant reds with expressive fruit and a distinctive character.

For Diamantakis, the focus is simple: preserving the traditions of Cretan winemaking while revealing just how exciting its native grape varieties can be.

Two Islands, Five Wines, One Evening

While Paros and Crete may be separated by the Aegean Sea, they share a passion for preserving their indigenous grapes and celebrating the places they come from. And what better way to discover their differences than through a glass of wine? On Wednesday 28 October, we’ll be bringing a taste of both islands to Franklin’s Wine in Notting Hill.

Hosted by Effi Tsournava and our in-house sommelier Luigi Gaudino, the evening will take you through five carefully selected wines from Paros Farming Community and Diamantakis Winery.

Expect an introduction to unfamiliar grape varieties, the stories behind the vineyards and a closer look at what makes Greek wine so exciting today.

Whether you’re already a Greek wine enthusiast or simply curious to try something different, join us for an evening of discovery.

Book your spot here