Assyrtiko 2022 Domaine Paterianakis

Melissinos Red 2022 – Domaine Paterianakis

A biodynamic red full of Mediterranean character

Vineyard philosophy

Melissinos Red 2022 is born from certified biodynamic vineyards on the hills of Crete, where calcareous, rocky soils meet a dry, sun-drenched climate. The indigenous Kotsifali grape is blended with Syrah, offering a vibrant expression of the Mediterranean terroir. Vines are cultivated entirely by hand, without synthetic chemicals, using only natural preparations that enhance soil life and vineyard biodiversity.

Winemaking approach

The winemaking process is natural and low-intervention, focused on preserving the character of the fruit. Grapes are gently destemmed and ferment with native yeasts. The wine matures in stainless steel and partly in used barrels, maintaining freshness and drinkability. No aggressive filtration or fining—just a pure, authentic red with soul.

Tasting notes

Intense ruby red with brilliant reflections. On the nose, ripe red fruits, sweet spices, wild herbs, and black pepper emerge. On the palate, it’s warm, rounded, soft, with silky tannins and a spicy, fruity finish.

Food pairings

Perfect with grilled meats, lamb or pork roasts, and hearty vegetarian dishes such as baked eggplant, moussaka, or mushroom risotto. Also excellent slightly chilled with Middle Eastern cuisine.

Technical sheet

• Grapes: 60% Kotsifali, 40% Syrah

• Region: Melesses, Heraklion – Crete

• Altitude: 600 m a.s.l.

• Soil: Calcareous, clayey, rocky

• Fermentation: Native yeasts, spontaneous

• Aging: Stainless steel + used barrels

• Alcohol: 13.5% vol

• Style: Biodynamic, unfiltered

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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.