Wine production in the Heraklion area dates back over 2000 years and it is still going strong to this day.
Located in the limestone hills 16km to the south of the Cretans capital of Heraklion lies the authentic village of Archanes (locally known as Arhanes or Arxanes) which is surrounded by lines of vineyards.
Their origins can be traced back to the 19 century BC and the wine press at Vathypetro, just outside the village, which was used by the ancient Minoan civilization (who's king resided in the palace at Knossos) which mysteriously disappeared most likely due to a natural disaster.
There are more Minoan remains around Archanes including a burial ground at Fourni and there is also evidence that they produced olive oil and pottery in the area. However it is the legacy of the vineyards which prevailed in the area to this day.
In the present era many of the world's wine have gravitated to a "sameness" in order to satisfy global tastes so it is good to see that Archanes as one of the principal wine producers on the island of Crete has retained its historic distinction which can be attributed to the Mandilaria and Kotsifali verities of grapevine grown there.
You can visit the wine producers in Archanes and taste the wines on offer which are fruity and light in colour and often described as masculine and honest, which is fitting for a wine made in Crete.
The food in Crete is very special, amongst the best in Greece and it is best enjoyed, you guessed it, with a glass of Archanes wine.
We have a lovely holiday villa in Archanes where you could stay or choose from our full, well established and reliable range of villas near Heraklion in Crete. Please contact us if you would like any more information on what to see and do in Crete or where to stay, our experienced holiday advisors will be more than happy to help.