Assyrtiko 2022 Domaine Paterianakis

Assyrtiko 2022 – Domaine Paterianakis

The mineral soul of Crete, in its purest form

Vineyard philosophy

Assyrtiko 2022 comes from high-altitude vineyards located over 600 meters above sea level, in the arid and pristine area of Melesses, on the island of Crete. The grapes are cultivated under certified biodynamic farming, using manual labor, herbal preparations, and no synthetic chemicals. The dry, calcareous soils and intense temperature swings between day and night help create compact, concentrated berries rich in aromatic tension and minerality, fully expressing the identity of Assyrtiko in its Cretan expression.

Winemaking approach

The vinification process reflects a minimal-intervention philosophy. Spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts takes place in stainless steel tanks, preserving freshness and purity. No fining or aggressive filtration is performed. The wine rests on fine lees for a few months, gaining depth and texture without losing its crystalline vibrancy. The result is a laser-sharp white wine with a radiant, saline character, both refined and terroir-driven.

Tasting notes

Bright straw yellow with greenish highlights. On the nose, aromas of lemon peel, flint, green apple, and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, it’s vibrant and saline, with a tangy citrus finish and electric acidity.

Food pairings

An ideal match for raw seafood, oysters, tuna tartare, or vegetarian dishes such as grilled zucchini, feta and olive salads, or couscous with herbs. Also excellent as a mineral-driven aperitif.

Technical sheet

• Grape variety: 100% Assyrtiko

• Region: Melesses, Heraklion (Crete)

• Altitude: 620 m a.s.l.

• Soil: Calcareous, poor, and clayey

• Fermentation: Spontaneous, stainless steel

• Aging: 4 months on fine lees

• Alcohol: 13% vol

• Production: Limited

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Domaine Paterianakis – Biodynamic excellence from the highlands of Crete

A story of family, land, and vision

Domaine Paterianakis is located in the heart of Melesses, a mountain village on the island of Crete, around 600 meters above sea level. Established in the 1980s by the Paterianakis family, it is now run by the third generation, with sisters Emmanuela and Niki continuing the legacy of their father. As pioneers of organic viticulture in Crete, they focus on preserving the local environment and showcasing the native Cretan grape varieties.

Vineyard philosophy

The estate cultivates 15 hectares of biodynamically farmed vineyards at high altitude, where cool nights and sunny days favor slow, balanced ripening. Indigenous grapes such as Vidiano, Thrapsathiri, Kotsifali, and Mandilari are grown using natural treatments, herbal teas, and minimal soil disturbance. The goal is to produce vibrant, living fruit that reflects the rugged, sunlit, and windswept terroir of Crete.

Winemaking approach

In the cellar, the same respect continues: native yeast fermentation, minimal sulfites, and no unnecessary interventions. Each wine is handcrafted with time and care. Alongside native grapes, the estate also works with Syrah, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc, creating wines that balance Mediterranean richness with international finesse.

The wines

Paterianakis wines are pure and expressive: aromatic, saline whites, intense yet agile reds, and elegant orange wines, always produced in small quantities. Special attention is given to aging in terracotta amphorae, enhancing varietal purity and mineral tension.