The Peza valley is the largest wine-growing district of Crete and one of the most productive agricultural areas on the island. South of Heraklion, rolling hills are covered with vineyards and olive groves, and the villages of the area produce the three flavours of Cretan hospitality: olive oil, wine and raki. Peza is a protected designation of origin for its wines, which are made from the Kotsifali and Mandilari grapes for reds and Vilana for whites, and the cooperative and family producers here have worked to raise the quality of Cretan wine in recent decades. An afternoon tour visits three kinds of producer in a single trip: an olive oil press, a winery and a raki distillery. Raki, called tsikoudia, is the clear spirit distilled from grape pomace after the wine harvest, and in autumn it is cooked in copper stills in village yards, the focus of festivals and gatherings. Seeing the process, and tasting the product with the people who make it, gives a rounded sense of the Cretan relationship between land, food and community.
How it works
The tour is a half-day excursion from Heraklion or nearby resorts, with transport in a minibus or car and a guide who drives and talks. It includes visits to producers with tastings of oil, wine and raki, together with some local snacks. The exact stops can vary through the year, so check the pick-up points, the duration and what is included when you book. The distillation of raki takes place in autumn, so the visit will differ outside that season.
What to expect
A friendly, informal afternoon of around four to five hours. You will walk through a press or cellar, learn how to taste each product and meet the families who run the businesses. The pours are modest but they add up, so eat lunch beforehand. You will usually have the chance to buy oil, wine, raki and honey directly from the producers, so bring cash and space in your luggage. Wear comfortable shoes and take a hat in summer.
Making the most of it
Ask the hosts to explain the difference between wine and raki production and how to drink raki, which is usually sipped slowly with food after a meal. If you are visiting in October or November, ask whether you can see a village still in operation.
This tour pairs well with Knossos in the morning, since it is close, and with a cooking class later in the week. It is a good bad-weather option too, since most of the time is spent indoors. Keep in mind that the tasting is aimed at adults.
Good to know
The Peza Union of Agricultural Cooperatives is among the oldest wine cooperatives on Crete, and the valley's vineyards benefit from altitude and cool nights that keep the grapes fresh. Producers often serve tastings with simple food such as bread, cheese and olives, which helps to balance the alcohol. If you are in Crete in autumn, ask whether you can see grapes arriving at a winery or a still being lit, but bear in mind that dates depend on the season.
Dress in layers, as cellars can be cool even on hot days, and keep your receipts for any purchases you plan to ship home.
What to expect
The experience
A guided afternoon tour to Peza valley producers of olive oil, wine and raki, with tastings at each stop.
Best time
Autumn for the raki distilling season, though the tour runs through much of the year.
How long
About four to five hours.
Tips
Eat a proper lunch beforehand, carry cash for purchases and avoid driving yourself.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Food and drink lovers who want to taste the three flavours of rural Crete in one trip.
- Families
- Children can come along, but most of the time is spent on tastings.
- Couples
- A leisurely afternoon among vines and olive groves.
- Pair with
- The Palace of Knossos in the morning.
- Time needed
- An afternoon.
Good questions
What is raki?+
Raki, or tsikoudia, is a clear spirit distilled from grape pomace, traditionally offered after meals and at gatherings.
Is Peza near Knossos?+
Yes, the valley is south of Heraklion and not far beyond Knossos, which makes the two easy to combine.
Will I taste all three products?+
Most tours include olive oil, wine and raki tastings, but stops can vary, so check the details when you book.
Can I buy products?+
Yes, producers sell oil, wine, raki and honey. Bring cash in case cards are not accepted.
Is it suitable for non-drinkers?+
Olive oil and food tastings can be enjoyed without alcohol, but check the programme first.
