Lyrarakis Kotsifali Queen 2021
‘Lyrarakis’ is the family name of brothers Manolis and Sotiris, who established the winery on the island of Crete, Greece in 1966. Today, Lyrarakis Wines is run by the second-generation winemakers, supported by an extended family of skilled professionals.
From the very beginning, the family has devoted themselves to the revival of rare grape varieties of Crete; they work with more than 11 indigenous varieties, with 3 saved from extinction. Grapes Dafni and Plyto, almost extinct but now well-known Cretan varieties, were revived in 1992 in the family’s Psarades vineyard. The latest rescue, Melissaki, found its home in the Gero Deti vineyard in 2010. They continue to explore Crete for forgotten varieties and unique terroirs, aiming to produce wines with distinctive character.
As sustainability advocates, Lyrarakis transitioned to organic viticulture in 2020 and a significant percentage of their cooperating farmers are doing the same. As part of their regenerative approach, they have stopped ploughing the ground and only use their own fertilizer made of organic waste from their kitchen and the winery. Each year, the family evaluates both their estate and participating farmers for water, soil, pest and ecosystem management, air quality and community impact.
This Kotsifali wine, one of the queens of Cretan grape varieties, with its elegant mouthfeel of spices, red fruits and a piquant aftertaste, is produced from vineyards at 500m altitude. Bright, mild ruby color. An aromatic nose of red cherries and zesty dark fruits with a touch of spice. Balanced and savory palate with smooth tannins, juicy acidity and a long fruity finish. Enjoy it with Mediterranean dishes, roast meat and spicy cheeses.
