Lefkos 2022 | Iliana Malihin

What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Following the devastating fire of 2022 in Melambes, which caused unprecedented damage to the region's indigenous vineyards, Iliana Malihin remains undeterred, actively exploring the local treasures of the wider area. This white blend of Vidiano and Thrapsathiri was crafted after the fires, showcasing fruit sourced from various vineyards across Rethymnon. The combination of these two varieties results in a wine with a pleasing richness and volume on the palate, highlighting both the fruity and botanical characteristics of each grape. True to Iliana’s signature non-intrusive winemaking style, this wine reflects her patience, as it is released several months after harvest.

This particular wine features a blend of Vidiano and Thrapsathiri from vineyards at altitudes between 560 and 900 meters. The vines include a mix of younger vineyards and ancient, indigenous stumps aged between 10 and 100 years, rooted in clay and shale soils. Crafted using indigenous yeasts and minimal sulfites, and avoiding fining or filtration, this wine exhibits a distinct character. While it may lack some depth compared to Iliana’s older vines, it boasts crisp, vibrant fruit and an excellent mouthfeel. Eight months of contact with the lees have enhanced the wine's volume and complexity.

Iliana Malihin’s new project focuses on the mountain villages of Rethymno, aiming to revive the region’s viticultural traditions. The first duo of labels showcases the mountain village of Melampes and the Vidiano variety, highlighting the origins of Crete's promising grape. The goal is to produce wines from various villages in Rethymnon, emphasizing the indigenous varieties unique to each area.

While Rethymno may lag behind other prefectures, it is home to forgotten mountain vineyards at altitudes between 600 and 900 meters. Villages like Melampes and Fourfoura feature stunning self-rooted, pre-drying vineyards on steep terraces.

This project collaborates with local viticulturists to revive old vineyards and plant new ones with Vidiano and other varieties. Organic, manual cultivation is prioritized, along with minimal intervention in winemaking, using native yeasts and low sulfites to showcase the unique terroir.

The initial results are two Vidiano wines produced in small quantities. The old vines, aged 90 to 140 years, deliver complexity and depth, while the young vines, under 15 years, offer vibrancy and youthful aromas. Both wines, from the same variety and region, express themselves distinctly.

This project embodies the rich heritage of the Greek vineyard, showcasing new producers setting Greek wine on an exciting new path.