This Winery Is Permanently Closed.
Winery Rating
Located at:
Vatolakkos, Chania, Crete, Greece
Reservation Required
Price Range For Tasting
Few wineries capture the spirit of Crete as completely as Manousakis Winery. Located in the village of Vatolakkos near Chania, the estate blends traditional Mediterranean hospitality with modern, organic winemaking. Visitors are welcomed into a serene environment where the beauty of the White Mountains frames every tasting, and Cretan flavors shine through each pour.
Founded in 1993 by Ted Manousakis, the winery represents a return to his ancestral roots. After years abroad, Ted returned to Crete to create a vineyard that would reflect both international quality and Cretan authenticity. The estate was planted with Rhône varietals—Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Roussanne—later joined by Assyrtiko and other native grapes, to create wines that honor Crete’s terroir while appealing to global palates.
(See also our coverage of Château Fortia in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, another Rhône-inspired estate.)
The estate’s vineyards are cultivated organically, spread across the dramatic slopes of the Lefka Ori (White Mountains). Olive groves and wild herbs surround the property, reinforcing the connection to the land. The winery has grown into a destination: offering tastings, tours, and an on-site restaurant that pairs wines with traditional Cretan cuisine.
Manousakis produces wines under the Nostos label, known for blending Rhône varietals with indigenous grapes. Key highlights include:
The accessible Terroir Tasting offers 5 wines for €15, paired with rusks, olive oil, and sea salt—delivering remarkable value.
Tasting ExperienceGuests can enjoy tastings both indoors and outdoors. The shaded terrace is the highlight: rustic stone walls, olive branches, and mountain views set the stage for a relaxed, authentic experience. Knowledgeable staff guide visitors through the wines, explaining both the varietals and the organic philosophy behind them. For those seeking more, advanced tastings and tours can include vineyard walks or a meal in the estate’s restaurant.
Today, the winery’s operations are led by Alexandra Manousakis, who continues her father’s vision while expanding the brand’s reputation abroad. Alexandra emphasizes sustainable practices and cultural authenticity, ensuring that each bottle carries not only the terroir of Crete but also the family’s passion for sharing it with the world.
Crete is one of Greece’s most historic wine regions, with winemaking traditions dating back over 4,000 years. Manousakis represents a modern chapter of this story—blending international varietals with native grapes to highlight Crete’s evolving place in global wine culture.
(See also our review of Tenuta di Mensanello for another example of wine intertwined with regional farming and hospitality.)
Manousakis Winery delivers an intimate, authentic, and distinctly Cretan wine experience. From the organic vineyards to the tranquil terrace tastings, it balances heritage with modern craftsmanship. For visitors to Crete seeking both scenic beauty and exceptional wines, this is a must-visit estate.
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