Cretan wine has changed over the past thirty years from a simple house wine to a serious drink, built on native grapes that grow nowhere else. A wine tasting in Rethymno is a compact way to explore that story without leaving town. In a wine bar or cellar in the old quarter, a sommelier or host pours several wines from different parts of the island, explaining the grapes, the soils and the styles, and pairs each one with a plate of local food. Vidiano and Vilana whites, Thrapsathiri, Kotsifali and Mandilari reds and sometimes a sweet Liatiko give a good picture of the range. The food matters just as much as the wine: graviera and anthotyro cheeses, olives, cured pork, dakos and honey show how Cretan food and wine have developed together. Rethymno's old town, with Venetian houses, Ottoman minarets and a lively evening atmosphere, is a pleasant setting. The tasting is a good fit for travellers who have only a short time in town but want to meet the island flavours.
How it works
The tasting takes place in a venue in or near the old town, in a small group seated around a table. A host leads you through a flight of several wines with pairings, with time for questions. Check the address, the start time and the wine and food included when you book. Tastings are offered through the season and in the evenings, so check the days available.
What to expect
Two relaxed hours with no walking. The pours are small, the explanations are friendly rather than technical, and the pairings include enough food to count as a light dinner for many guests. Tell the host about allergies or dietary needs in advance. Vegetarian plates can often be arranged. If you like a wine, ask the host where to buy it, as many wines are found in shops in town. The group is usually of mixed nationalities and ages, which makes for a sociable evening.
Making the most of it
Schedule the tasting before dinner or as a light dinner replacement, and do not plan a long drive afterwards. Combine it with a walk to the Venetian harbour and the Fortezza earlier in the day. If you enjoy the evening, you can follow up with a winery tour at Archanes or a day on the south coast. Ask for tips on which restaurants in the area serve the best local wines by the glass. Remember that the tasting is for adults and is not intended for children.
Good to know
The old town of Rethymno is compact, so most hotels are within a short walk of the tasting venues, which means you can enjoy the wine without worrying about the drive. The Rimondi fountain, the Neratze Mosque and the Venetian Loggia are all close and are pleasant to see on the walk back.
Tell the host about any allergies, and let them know if you would like to learn about a particular grape. If you enjoy the tasting, ask about the producers and their visitor programmes, as many are open for tours and meals in the countryside.
What to expect
The experience
A seated two-hour tasting of Cretan wines paired with local cheeses, meats and sweets, led by a host.
Best time
Evenings through the season, and a good choice on a rainy afternoon.
How long
About two hours.
Tips
Eat lightly beforehand, tell the host about dietary needs and ask for shop recommendations.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want to learn about Cretan wine in a relaxed setting in town.
- Families
- The tasting is for adults, so families may prefer a cooking class.
- Couples
- An easy, sociable evening with excellent food pairings.
- Pair with
- Rethymno Old Town and the Fortezza.
- Time needed
- An evening.
Good questions
Which wines will I taste?+
The selection varies but usually includes Cretan whites, reds and sometimes a sweet wine made from native grapes.
Is food included?+
Yes, the wines are paired with local cheese, meats, olives and sweets. Check the details when you book.
Where does it take place?+
In Rethymno, usually in or near the old town. Check the address on your confirmation.
Can vegetarians join?+
Often yes, but tell the host in advance so they can plan the pairings.
Do I need wine knowledge?+
No, the host explains everything, and the tasting is for beginners as well as enthusiasts.
