Ben says

★★ Great Wine “Like many Greek wines, the aromas are immediately exciting. Perfumed and floral with Mediterranean citrus like orange and grapefruit, and a hint of bay leaf. It’s textured and viscous on the palate with pear and lemon flavours and a soft, bold finish. “

Armi Vineyard Thrapsathiri

KEY POINTS

100% Thrapsathiri with 12.5% abv. Sourced from the single vineyard Armi, some 500m above sea level. Barrel fermented and matured on the lees in old French and American oak for 3 months. Certified vegan.

Grown in: Armi Vineyard, Crete, GREECE.

Food Pairing

Of course the obvious pairing here is to get your friends over and indulge in a platter of Greek meze (make sure you’re generous with pitta breads and dips!). If you’re not having a food and drink party or the idea of cooking all that sounds like a nightmare, then set this wine up alongside roasted butternut squash and puy lentils; the earthiness and sweetness will work very nicely.

Disclosure & Price

Tasted at the Beckford Bottle Shop annual tasting.

£19.95 Beckford Bottle Shop, Bath.

Reviewed and tasted: 5 November 2022

Ben Franks Wine Tasting Note Producer Profile

About the Producer

Lyrarakis is located in the mountainous region of Alagni, south of Heraklion, in Crete. The vines are planted on loamy, sandy or clay soils, and the winery has dedicated itself to indigenous varieties, including the revival of some near extinct grapes. The family winery started producing wine in 1966 and under the stewardship of winemaker Myriam Ambuzer, Lyrarakis has gained a renowned reputation among the finest wineries in Greece.