PDO MALVASIA SITIA

The demarcated production area of ​​the PDO Malvasia Sitia is located in the Lassithi
regional unit of Crete, encompassing a large part of the eastern side of the
prefecture, with areas such as Sitia, Ziros, Chandras, Piskokefalo, Tourloti, Myrsini
and many more. The viticultural zone is basically semi-mountainous to mountainous,
with altitudes ranging from 300 to 750 meters, and presents an impressive soil
diversity. The climate is classically Mediterranean, with abundant sunshine that
allows the grapes to fully ripen, while the sea breeze that penetrates the slopes
works beneficially, maintaining the necessary acidity in the grapes — a crucial
element for the structure and freshness of sweet wines.

 The history of Malvasia wines of Crete is long and glorious. From the 14th to the 17th century,
the Venetians widely traded the sweet wines of Crete under the name “Malvasia” creating a wine
reputation that persists to this day. In Sitia, as in Chania (Heraklion) and Rethymno,
Malvasia wines were multi-varietal, based on indigenous white and red varieties with
white vinification. The modern version of the PDO Malvasia Sitia continues this
tradition, focusing on white sweet wines from sun-dried grapes. The composition is
based at least 85% on the Assyrtiko, Athiri, Thrapsathiri and Liatiko varieties (white
winemaking), with the participation of aromatic Muscat Spinas and Malvasia di
Candia aromatica limited to 15%, giving the special, complex aromatic character that
has been associated with the historical reputation of Malvasia.