2022 Liatiko, Iliana Malihin, Crete, Rethymno PGI

Iliana Malíhin is one of the rising figures of Crete’s new generation of winemakers. A trained oenologist, she founded her winery in 2019, at just 26 years old, with the ambition of preserving and showcasing the exceptional viticultural heritage of the mountains of Rethymno. Today, she works with more than thirty winegrowers across approximately 10 hectares, particularly in Mélambes, Fourfouras and Meronas.

Her vineyards lie at altitudes ranging from approximately 560 to 900 metres and include some very old pre-phylloxera vines. Her work focuses on indigenous Cretan grape varieties: Vidiano, Thrapsathiri and Liatiko, organically grown and vinified with minimal intervention: indigenous yeasts, very little sulphur, no filtration and extended ageing on the lees when suited to the wine. Rather than seeking power, her aim is to highlight the altitude, freshness and distinctive identity of Rethymno’s mountainous terroirs.