Fournarakis Winery & Traditional Distillery
Welcome to Fournarakis WineryWelcome to Fournarakis Winery, an authentic Cretan winery located in the historic village of Episkopi, near Heraklion. Nestled within a landscape rich in history, folklore, and viticultural tradition, our estate is dedicated to crafting premium wines that express the true character of the Cretan soil. Rooted in Tradition, Crafted with PassionAt our Cretan winery, we honor the deep roots of winemaking by blending time-tested traditions with modern techniques. Our vineyards thrive under the Mediterranean sun, producing exceptional local and international varieties.
We place a special emphasis on indigenous Cretan grapes, bringing out the distinct aromas and vibrant flavors of varieties.
A Unique Taste of Crete: Wine & Raki
What makes the Fournarakis Winery experience truly unique is our commitment to the authentic Cretan lifestyle. Beyond our wine production, our estate features a traditional Raki distillery (Rakokazano). Here, we keep the centuries-old custom of distilling authentic Cretan Tsikoudia alive, offering our visitors a complete journey into the flavors and hospitality of Crete.
Visit Our Cretan WineryWhether you are a passionate wine lover or a traveler seeking an authentic local experience, we invite you to explore our estate. Join us for a Cretan wine tasting, tour, and discover the passion behind every bottle we create.
Experience the warmth of Cretan hospitality at Fournarakis Winery. Our vineyard is our sanctuary. Situated on the historic hills of Crete, it is a living ecosystem where the unique microclimate, ancient soil, and indigenous grape varieties co-exist in perfect harmony to produce wines of character and soul.
The Microclimate: Sun, Wind & Altitude
Our vines grow at the ideal altitude, where the intense Mediterranean sun meets the cooling northern winds of the Aegean Sea (the Meltemia). This dramatic temperature difference between day and night allows our grapes to ripen slowly and evenly. The result? Wines with vibrant acidity, intense aromatics, and a distinct freshness that defines high-altitude Cretan winemaking.
The Soil: Ancient & Alive
The earth beneath our feet is a rich blend of limestone, clay, and schist. This poor, well-drained soil forces the roots of our vines to dig deep into the ground in search of water and nutrients. Through this struggle, the vines absorb the mineral character of the land, transferring the true expression of the Cretan terroir directly into your glass.
Our Varieties: Celebrating Cretan Heritage
We dedicated our vineyard to the revival and preservation of Crete’s unique indigenous grape varieties. We proudly cultivate.
Sustainable & Organic Farming
We view ourselves as caretakers of this land, not just owners. We practice certified organic farming, avoiding chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. By encouraging biodiversity—allowing wild herbs like thyme and oregano to grow between the vines—we create a natural balance that protects our grapes and keeps the Cretan ecosystem thriving for generations to come.