From: Crete, Greece
Varietal: Syrah and Kotsifali
Taste: The 2018 Lyrarakis red blend from Crete, Greece is a delightful blend of two of the island’s most popular red grape varieties. With Syrah providing the structure and color and Kotsifali adding ripe fruit flavors, this is a wine full of character, with a spicy, earthy aroma and red berry flavors that linger on the palate. On the finish, hints of tobacco and leather add complexity, while balanced acidity and soft tannins create a well-rounded and enjoyable drinking experience.
Pairing: As stated above, this wine is a complex, full-bodied wine with a deep ruby color and aromas of ripe blackberry, black cherry, and spice. Those versatile properties make this wine perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes, from light to heavy.
For lighter dishes, the 2018 Lyrarakis Red Syrah Kotsifali pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, and vegetable dishes. The wine’s acidity and tannins balance out the flavors of the food and bring out the subtle nuances of the dish. For a more substantial pairing, the wine is a great match for steak, lamb, and game meats. The bold flavors of the wine stand up to the richness of the meats and the tannins help to cut through the fat.
Another great pairing for this charming red is a Mediterranean-style pasta dish (check out Melissa Clark’s recipe for Pasta With Turkish-Style Lamb, Eggplant and Yogurt Sauce). The notes of spice in the wine will pair nicely with the herbs and spices used in the dish. The bold flavors of the wine will also stand up to the richness of the pasta sauce. This is a great pairing for a casual dinner with friends.
About the winery. Lyrarakis Winery is a family-run winery located in the village of Dafnes in Heraklion, Crete, Greece. Founded in 1966, the winery is now run by the second generation of the Lyrarakis family, who strive to produce high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of their region.
The winery produces a wide variety of wines, from dry whites to full-bodied reds. Their signature wines are made from the indigenous varieties of the region, such as Kotsifali and Mandilari. These wines are made with traditional winemaking techniques, such as open-air fermentation and aging in amphora.
The Lyrarakis family is passionate about their wines and their region, and they are committed to preserving the unique character of their wines. They are also dedicated to sustainable practices, such as using natural fertilizers and avoiding the use of pesticides. The winery also produces a range of organic wines, made with grapes grown without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
Lyrarakis Winery is a great example of a family-run winery that is dedicated to producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of their region. Their passion for winemaking and commitment to sustainability make them a great choice for those looking for a unique and flavorful wine experience.
