Crete has one of the oldest wine traditions in the world, and Chania is home to several award-winning wineries producing exceptional Vidiano, Romeiko, Muscat of Spinas, Kotsifali, and Liatiko.
Whether you’re a wine expert or simply enjoy relaxing in beautiful vineyards, these are the best wine tasting experiences in Chania.
Top Wine Tasting Experiences in Chania
1. Manousakis Winery – Organic Wines in the Mountains
📍 Vatolakkos Village (15–20 min from Chania)
A peaceful estate in the foothills of the White Mountains, Manousakis is one of Crete’s most respected wineries.
Why visit: Beautiful terraces, organic wines, guided tastings
Try: Nostos Assyrtiko, Nostos Romeiko, Muscat of Spinas
Experience: Wine flights + cheese platters
2. Karavitakis Winery – Award-Winning Vineyard
📍 Pontikiana, Kolymbari Region
A family-run estate known for creativity and bold blends. Scenic vineyard tour and friendly staff make it a must-visit.
Why visit: Large tasting room, modern wines, beautiful grounds
Try: Elia White, The Little Prince, Liatiko
Experience: Tasting + vineyard walk
3. Dourakis Winery – Historic & Scenic
📍 Alikampos Village (near Lake Kournas)
A traditional winery with stone buildings, cellars, and a relaxing garden. Ideal for travelers who enjoy wine + nature.
Why visit: Rich history, atmospheric cellar, boutique wines
Try: Calliga Red, Femina White, Dourakis Vidiano
Experience: Cellar tour + guided tasting
4. Anoskeli Olive Mill & Winery – Wine + Olive Oil Tastings
📍 Anoskeli Village
Perfect if you want a combined experience. Enjoy premium olive oil tastings along with local wines.
Why visit: High-quality olive oil, relaxed wine tasting
Try: Anoskeli Dry Red, Assyrtiko, olive oil flight
Experience: Terrace tasting + mill tour
5. Pnevmatikakis Winery – Panoramic Views
📍 Kissamos Region
A large winery with a spacious rooftop offering sweeping views of the valley. Great for photography and groups.
Why visit: Scenic rooftop, big selection
Try: Romeiko Reserve, Rosé, dessert wines
Experience: Self-guided or guided tastings
Wine Tasting in Chania Old Town (No Car Needed)
6. Oinoteka – Boutique Wine Bar Experience
📍 Old Town Chania
A small but excellent wine bar offering mini wine tastings with expert guidance.
Try: Vidiano flights, natural wines
Best for: Travelers who can’t visit vineyards
7. Daliani Wine Bars – By-the-Glass Local Wines
📍 Daliani Street
Several wine-friendly cafés offer Cretan wines by the glass — perfect for casual tastings.
Try: Assyrtiko, Liatiko, Romeiko blends
Best Cretan Wines to Taste
- Vidiano – aromatic, rich white (Crete’s star grape)
- Romeiko – native red, unique & earthy
- Muscat of Spinas – floral, refreshing white
- Kotsifali – soft, fruity red
- Liatiko – light, elegant, often rosé-like
- Assyrtiko – crisp and perfect for seafood
Why These Are the Best Wine Tasting Spots in Chania
These wineries and wine bars were chosen for their:
- Authentic Cretan grape varieties
- Scenic vineyards & peaceful locations
- Knowledgeable hosts
- High-quality wine flights
- Easy access from Chania
- Great value tastings
Whether you want a romantic vineyard afternoon or a casual Old Town tasting, the best wine tasting in Chania offers unforgettable flavor and atmosphere.
Tips for Wine Tasting in Chania
- Book ahead — especially July–September
- Avoid the hottest hours (13:00–16:00) for vineyard walks
- Rent a car or use a wine tour company for safe travel
- Pair whites with seafood & reds with slow-cooked Cretan dishes
- Buy bottles at the winery — prices are lower
Chania’s vineyards and wine bars offer a perfect mix of history, flavor, and scenery. Whether you’re exploring the mountains near Vatolakkos or the charming alleys of Old Town, these wine tasting experiences in Chania are essential for every food and wine lover.
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