Douloufakis, Aspros Lagos 2025, Vidiano, Crete

13.2% abv. Produced from 100% Vidiano from the estate’s Aspros Lagos vineyard in Dafnes, Heraklion, at around 350 metres. Fermentation begins in stainless steel and is completed in barrel, followed by bâtonnage. The wine then matures for five months in new and second-use barrels, 40% acacia and 60% French oak.

This is a wine that has evolved nicely over time. The oak is now more delicate spending just 5 months compared to the past. Nose is initially shy but opens up with ripe apricot, citrus and a light waxy note. There is a touch of vanilla and the classic Mediterranean garrigues I often find in wines from Crete. Creamy on the palate, yet with vibrant acidity and a long, layered finish, this wine will develop over the next 3-5 years. (Yiannis Karakasis MW)