Get to Know Greek Wine

Cretan wine, with roots stretching back over 4,000 years, is among the oldest winemaking traditions in the world. Originating from the sun-drenched island of Crete—Greece’s largest island and a cradle of Minoan civilization—Cretan viticulture has been shaped by a unique blend of history, climate, and terrain. The island’s diverse microclimates and mountainous landscapes, coupled with its rich limestone soils and Mediterranean sun, create ideal conditions for producing distinctive and expressive wines. Ancient amphorae, frescoes, and archaeological evidence speak to the importance of wine in Cretan culture since the Bronze Age.

Over time, native grape varieties such as Vidiano, Vilana, Kotsifali, Liatiko, and Mandilari have evolved to express the island’s terroir with elegance and character. While Crete's winemaking suffered periods of decline, the past few decades have seen a renaissance, with a new generation of producers blending tradition with modern techniques to craft high-quality wines that are gaining international recognition.

Special guest - Dourakis Winery

Nestled in the picturesque village of Alikampos in Crete's Apokoronas region, Dourakis Winery is a family-owned estate that harmoniously blends tradition, innovation, and sustainability.

Founded in 1986 by oenologist Andreas Dourakis, the winery began as a modest operation in his ancestral village. Drawing upon his studies in Germany and experience in Greek wineries, Andreas returned to Crete with a vision to produce high-quality wines that reflect the island's unique terroir. Today, Dourakis Winery is recognized for its commitment to sustainable practices, including organic and regenerative viticulture, and its solar-powered facilities. The estate cultivates both indigenous grape varieties—such as Vidiano, Vilana, Muscat of Spinas, Malvasia, and Kotsifali—and international ones like Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Jimmy has been running West London Wine School since January 2010. He also co-founded Streatham Wine House in October 2016 and became co-owner of South London Wine School in June 2019. In 2020, Jimmy started his Youtube channel’ aimed at providing top quality wine-focused educational content.

Location: Commonwealth Wine School

Instructor: Jimmy Smith

All participants must be at least 21 years old.

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Host or Publisher Commonwealth Wine School