Photography Courtesy of PDO Handakas–Candia
Sometimes the best way to understand a wine region is simply to see it.
Journey through PDO Handakas–Candia with this curated collection of photographs celebrating the landscapes, vineyards and history that continue to shape one of Greece’s oldest wine regions.
The Mountains of Handakas–Candia
The vineyards of Handakas–Candia climb dramatic mountain slopes throughout central Crete, with many reaching elevations of nearly 700 metres above sea level. These higher elevations, combined with cooling northern breezes and abundant Mediterranean sunshine, create ideal conditions for producing wines that balance freshness with remarkable concentration.
The Historic City of Candia
Long before today’s Heraklion became Crete’s largest city, it was known as Candia during centuries of Venetian rule. The modern PDO proudly preserves this historic name, connecting today’s wines with generations of growers and merchants who helped establish Crete as one of the Mediterranean’s great wine-producing regions.
Where the Story Began
Wine has been produced on Crete since the Minoan civilization more than 4,000 years ago. Archaeological discoveries across the island reveal ancient wine presses, storage vessels and evidence of one of Europe’s earliest organized wine cultures.
A Terroir Shaped by Nature
The landscape of Handakas–Candia is defined by rolling hills, limestone soils and mountain valleys that create a diverse collection of vineyard sites. The region’s unique combination of altitude, sunshine and cooling sea breezes allows indigenous grape varieties to ripen slowly while retaining vibrant acidity.
The Vineyards
Across the region, vineyards weave through olive groves and mountain villages, reflecting centuries of agricultural tradition. Today, modern viticulture works alongside inherited knowledge to preserve the authenticity of this historic landscape.
Vilana: Crete’s Signature White
PDO Handakas–Candia white wines are built around Vilana, the island’s flagship indigenous white grape. Bright citrus, orchard fruit and delicate floral notes have made it one of Greece’s most distinctive native varieties and a perfect companion to Mediterranean cuisine.
Kotsifali & Mandilaria
The PDO’s red wines showcase the traditional partnership of Kotsifali and Mandilaria. Together, these indigenous varieties produce wines that combine ripe fruit, structure and freshness while expressing a style unique to central Crete.
The Vineyards of Central Crete
From above, Handakas–Candia reveals a remarkable mosaic of vineyards, olive groves and historic villages. Protected Designation of Origin ensures that every bottle produced within the region reflects the landscape, grape varieties and traditions that define this extraordinary corner of Crete.
Heraklion Today
Modern Heraklion serves as the cultural and commercial heart of Crete while providing easy access to the surrounding wine country. Visitors can explore archaeological sites, historic streets and family-owned wineries, all within a short drive of one another.
The Venetian Fortress
Standing watch over Heraklion Harbour, the Venetian Fortress has welcomed merchants, travellers and wine traders for centuries. Today it remains one of Crete’s most recognizable landmarks and a lasting reminder of the region’s remarkable connection to wine, history and the Mediterranean.
Discover More
PDO Handakas–Candia is more than a wine region—it is a living expression of Crete’s history, culture and landscape.
From ancient vineyards to modern wineries, every bottle reflects thousands of years of tradition and one of Greece’s most exciting wine stories.
Renée has dedicated her life to grapes. As a Court of the Master Sommeliers Certified Sommelier, she has made wine her life’s work, and her entrepreneurial spirit has driven her to be a curator of wine experiences. In her work as a Wine Communicator, Curator of Virtual Experiences, Brand Consultant, Educator and Wine Writer Renée brings to life her love of wine in a way that is contagious. She has a flair for making wine fun and understandable, sharing her passion for the vine.
