Wines Unspecified Douloufakis - Dafnios - 2024

Douloufakis Cuvée Dafnios Blanc 2024 is an intriguing white wine from the storied island of Crete. While the precise grape variety is not specified, Douloufakis is well-known for working with native Cretan grapes, and the Dafnios range often features Vidiano, a distinctive indigenous grape. If this bottle follows the estate's tradition, you can expect a dry white wine showcasing freshness and aromatic complexity, marked by notes of ripe stone fruits, citrus blossom, and a touch of herbal undertones. The 2024 vintage, being very young, likely offers a vibrant, energetic palate with a pleasant minerality and a light saline hint, reflecting the influence of Cretan terroir. The winemaking style of Douloufakis leans toward minimal intervention and highlights both purity of fruit and terroir expression, resulting in a harmonious, food-friendly wine.

Crete, Greece’s southernmost and largest island, boasts a unique viticultural heritage. The island enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate, tempered by sea breezes and substantial diurnal temperature variation, especially in the higher-altitude vineyards. Its soils combine clay, limestone, and volcanic rock, creating an ideal environment for characterful native grapes. Crete’s wine tradition dates back millennia, and there is currently a dynamic revival underway, combining ancient varieties with modern expertise. Douloufakis is one of the estates at the forefront of this Cretan renaissance, championing both quality and authenticity in their bottlings.

This style of dry Cretan white pairs excellently with seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. Try it with grilled sea bream, calamari, or shellfish dishes, where the wine’s freshness will lift the flavours beautifully. It also complements mezze-style spreads, such as dolmades, tzatziki, or Greek salad with tangy feta cheese, as well as herbed chicken or vegetable-based dishes featuring olive oil and fresh herbs.

For optimum enjoyment, serve Douloufakis Cuvée Dafnios Blanc 2024 well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C, in tulip-shaped white wine glasses. The wine’s youthful vibrancy is best appreciated within the first few years after release, making it perfect for early enjoyment with sunny, convivial meals.