Thrapsathiri Armi 2023

Brothers Manolis and Sotiris Lyrarakis established their winery in Alagni, Crete, in 1966. The village sits over 400 metres above sea level and has a winemaking history dating back to the 14th century, as evidenced by the stone presses that still stand near the winery today. Now run by the second generation, the estate is notable for its long commitment to reviving Crete’s indigenous grape varieties, with three (Dafni, Plyto and Melissaki) saved from extinction over several decades. Winemaker Myriam Ambuzer works alongside the family to bring these varieties to life, farming organically since 2020, using their own fertiliser made from winery and kitchen waste, and producing wines with a character that could only come from Crete.