Peza and its wines

Peza is one of the main wine districts on the island of Crete, in the central part, south of Heraklion.
This is a historic and highly suited area, with a winegrowing tradition dating back to the time Minoan, and which today is one of the beating hearts of Cretan wine production.

The hilly landscape, lying between 250 and 700 metres above sea level, is characterised by limestone and clay soils and by a a dry Mediterranean climate, with warm, breezy summers and mild winters.
These conditions favour full ripening of the grapes and the production of balanced, aromatic wines with a strong local character.

What is the Peza wine district?

The Peza PDO (Πεζά ΟΠΑΠ) is one of the best-known appellations of Crete, officially recognised in 1971.
Production is centred on the traditional red and white wines, made from indigenous grape varieties.

• Peza PDO White: from Vilana (minimum 85%), with the possible addition of Thrapsathiri

• Peza PDO Red: from Kotsifali (minimum 75%) e Mandilaria

Also permitted are wines IGP Peza, which include international varieties such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.

Characteristics of Peza Wines

Whites

• Colour: Pale straw yellow with golden highlights

• Aromas: White flowers, citrus, aromatic herbs, mineral notes

• Palate: Fresh, soft, with good savouriness and a Mediterranean finish

Reds

• Colour: Bright ruby red, with garnet highlights

• Aromas: Ripe red fruit, sweet spices, Mediterranean scrub

• Palate: Warm, round, with good structure and persistence

Typical Grape Varieties of Peza

White Grape

• Vilana → the main Cretan white variety, floral and mineral

• Thrapsathiri, Vidiano, Malvasia di Candia

Black Grape

• Kotsifali → fruity and spicy, the backbone of the reds of Peza

• Mandilaria → more tannic and deeper coloured, it brings structure

• Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon (in the IGP versions)

Why choose a wine from Peza?

• To discover the authenticity of the Cretan grape varieties and their Mediterranean elegance

• For the fresh, savoury whites perfect with fish, vegetables and local cheeses

• For the warm, spicy reds, ideal with grilled meat or traditional Greek dishes

• Because Peza represents a a unique balance between tradition and winemaking innovation