Discover the Elegance of Semissis

Experience the exquisite blend of Malvasia di Candia Aromatica and Vilana, crafted to perfection in the heart of Crete.

The Essence of Semissis

Semissis is a masterful blend of two indigenous grape varieties of Crete, Malvasia di Candia Aromatica and Vilana.

The Malvasia di Candia Aromatica grape is known for its intense fruity character and resilience, while Vilana, the ‘queen’ of Cretan white varieties, adds a moderate intensity and acidity. Together, they create Semissis, a wine with a well-formed nose and palate, offering a fresh and balanced taste.

This harmonious combination results in a wine that is both aromatic and balanced, with hints of jasmine and ripe peach, butter and pear, leaving a balanced long-lasting aftertaste.

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Food Pairing

Best served at 9-10°C and perfect match to seafood, pizza, pasta, and pork meat. Delightful as an aperitif thanks to its aromatic character.

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Vinification Method

Classic white wine vinification using the cold- maceration method. Fermentation applied separately for each variety at 14 ̊C in stainless steel containers. 

 

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Maturation & Storage

Before bottling, the final blend stayed with the fine lees for 3-4 months. Bottle maturation and storage in a cool, dark place before removal from the winery.

Discovering the grape varieties

Malvasia Di Candia Aromatica

Malvasia di Candia Aromatica is a rare and highly aromatic grape variety with deep roots in Cretan history. This variety, which is one of the treasures of Cretan viticulture, has garnered attention from both winemakers and wine enthusiasts for the refined and aromatic wines it produces.

The name “Malvasia” originates from the Byzantine name of the city of Monemvasia, while “Candia” refers to the old name of Heraklion, Crete, during the Venetian period. Malvasia di Candia Aromatica is part of Crete’s historical tradition, known since the Venetian era when sweet Malvasia wines were exported throughout Europe.

Vilana

Vilana is the undisputed queen of white varieties of the Crete island. The hallmarks of Vilana wine are a moderately deep yellow color, medium intensity of aromas, and flavors showing notes of lemon, orange, pear, flowers (like jasmine), and herbs. On the palate it is fresh, light in body yet broad in shape, with soft acidity and medium alcohol.

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Aromatic Excellence

Semissis boasts a captivating aroma with notes of jasmine and ripe, fleshy peach, making it a truly sensory experience.

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Balanced Flavor

The blend of Malvasia di Candia Aromatica and Vilana creates a balanced flavor profile, with a harmonious interplay of sweetness and acidity.

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Long-Lasting Aftertaste

Enjoy a long-lasting aftertaste that leaves a memorable impression, much like the historical significance of its namesake, the Semissis coin.

The Legacy of Semissis

Semissis was one of the first gold coins of the Byzantine Empire and had a particularly high value. Two Semissis were equivalent to the standard gold coin, much like two excellent Cretan varieties are equivalent to this special wine.

Our Vineyards

The Heart of Semissis

Our vineyards, located at an altitude of 360m in the renowned wine region of Pezá, provide the perfect environment for these grapes to thrive. This unique terroir ensures that our grapes develop a distinct character. The Malvasia di Candia Aromatica and Vilana grapes flourish in these conditions, benefiting from the cool mountain breezes and rich soil composition.