Tucked away in the captivating Lasithi region of Crete, an immersive wine tasting and olive mill tour awaits those seeking an authentic glimpse into the island’s rich culinary heritage. Guided by a knowledgeable sommelier, guests can indulge in 3 to 5 signature Cretan wines paired with local delicacies, all while exploring the historic Vassilakis Estate and witnessing the modern production of the renowned Cretan olive oil. With a focus on preserving traditions and sharing the warmth of Cretan hospitality, this 100-minute experience promises to ignite the senses and leave visitors with a deeper appreciation for the region’s viticulture and gastronomic delights.
Key Points
- Explore Cretan winemaking and olive oil heritage through a guided wine tasting and olive mill tour at the family-owned Vassilakis Estate.
- Sample 3-5 signature Cretan wines paired with local delicacies, including cold cuts, cheeses, and seasonal produce.
- Tour the original 1865 olive press and learn about traditional and modern olive oil production methods.
- Browse the on-site shop for a variety of award-winning organic olive oils, Cretan wines, and other local gourmet products.
- The 100-minute experience is wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant women or children under 18.
Cretan Wine Tasting Experience
The Cretan wine tasting experience offers visitors a chance to sample 3 or 5 signature Cretan wine labels guided by a professional sommelier.
This 100-minute activity is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible. Priced from €1,127 per person, it includes a tasting of the wines accompanied by local Cretan delicacies like cold cuts, cheese, rusks, olives, and more.
Guests can also tour the Vassilakis Estate, view the original 1865 olive press, and learn about historical and modern olive oil production.
The on-site shop offers a wide range of products, from award-winning organic olive oils to Cretan wines, honey, and cosmetics, available for purchase or home delivery.
Indulge in Local Delicacies
Accompanying the Cretan wine tasting is a selection of local Cretan delicacies that perfectly complement the flavors of the wines.
Guests will enjoy a spread of cold cuts, cheeses, double-baked rusks, olives, olive spreads, and seasonal fruit.
These traditional Cretan specialties are provided by a hospitality-awarded family with high standards, ensuring an authentic and delightful culinary experience.
The pairing of the Cretan wines and local delicacies allows participants to fully enjoy the rich gastronomic heritage of the island.
This well-rounded experience offers a true taste of Crete, seamlessly blending the region’s renowned winemaking and its celebrated local cuisine.
Olive Mill Historic Tour
Vassilakis Estate welcomes guests to explore its rich olive oil heritage during the olive mill tour.
The tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of olive oil production. Visitors will:
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View the original 1865 hand-operated olive press and learn about the traditional methods of yesteryear.
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Discover the modern working olive mill and gain insights into current olive oil production techniques.
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Appreciate the evolution of this age-old industry and the family’s dedication to preserving its legacy.
The olive mill tour provides a unique opportunity to understand the cultural significance of olive oil in Cretan cuisine and lifestyle.
Guests leave with a deeper appreciation for this cherished ingredient.
Exploring Vassilakis Estate
Nestled among the picturesque olive groves of Crete, Vassilakis Estate invites visitors to embark on an immersive exploration of its rich heritage.
At the estate, guests can tour the original 1865 hand-operated olive press, learning about the historical methods of olive oil production. They’ll also witness the modern-day olive mill in action, gaining insights into the current techniques.
The on-site shop offers an array of local delights, from award-winning organic extra virgin olive oils to Cretan wines, olives, and more. Indulge in tastings, browse the selection, and discover the authentic flavors that make this region so renowned.
Purchasing Local Products
Visitors to Vassilakis Estate can browse and taste an impressive selection of local food products in the on-site shop.
Shoppers can choose from an array of mouth-watering options, including:
- Multi-award-winning organic extra virgin olive oils that capture the essence of Crete.
- Captivating Cretan wines and spirits, perfect for savoring the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
- Delectable olives and olive spreads, offering a true taste of the Mediterranean.
Along With these culinary delights, the shop also features honey, marmalade, and cosmetics made with the estate’s signature organic olive oil – allowing visitors to take a piece of Crete home with them.
Accessibility and Suitability
The wine tasting experience at Vassilakis Estate is designed to be accessible and suitable for a wide range of guests.
The 100-minute activity is wheelchair-accessible, catering to those with mobility needs. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or children under 18.
The professional sommelier-guided tasting features 3-5 signature Cretan wines, complemented by local delicacies.
Guests can browse and purchase a variety of award-winning products, including olive oils, wines, olives, and cosmetics, either on-site or for home delivery.
Customer Review Highlights
Glowing customer reviews highlight the exceptional quality and hospitality of the wine tasting experience at Vassilakis Estate.
Guests rave about the:
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Knowledgeable sommelier who guides them through the Cretan wine-tasting, sharing insights on the region’s viticulture.
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Delectable array of local delicacies that perfectly complement the wines, transporting them to the flavors of Crete.
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Welcoming family atmosphere and attention to detail, creating an immersive and memorable experience.
With an overall rating of 5/5, it’s clear that this wine tasting and olive mill tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the rich culinary heritage of Crete.
Meeting Point and Logistics
The meeting point for this immersive Cretan wine tasting experience is Vassilakis Estate, a family-owned winery and olive mill located in the heart of the island’s countryside.
The estate is wheelchair accessible, making it a convenient and inclusive venue. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the estate’s historical olive press and modern olive oil production facilities during the on-site tour.
After the wine tasting and olive mill tour, guests can browse and purchase a range of local products, including award-winning organic extra virgin olive oils, Cretan wines and spirits, olives, honey, and more.
The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women or children under 18.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Customize the Wine Tasting Experience?
Yes, the wine tasting experience can be customized. Guests can choose to taste 3 or 5 different Cretan wines, and the food pairings can be tailored to their preferences.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?
The wine tasting experience can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dietary requirements. Participants should notify the host in advance to ensure the local Cretan delicacies served meet their dietary needs.
How Long Does the Olive Mill Tour Last?
The olive mill tour lasts an unspecified duration. The overview states the tour includes viewing the historical olive press and a description of current production methods, but does not provide the exact length of the tour.
Do the Wines and Products Have Allergen Information?
The wines and products don’t explicitly list allergen information, but the family-owned estate takes pride in using high-quality, natural ingredients. Guests with allergies are advised to speak with the sommelier for guidance on suitable options.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Experience?
Yes, the experience can be extended. Guests can upgrade to a longer wine tasting session with additional Cretan wine labels and local delicacies for an additional cost.
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Recap
The "Discover Crete" wine tasting and olive mill tour offers a captivating immersion into Cretan viticulture and culinary heritage. Guests can savor signature wines paired with local delicacies, explore the historic Vassilakis Estate, and witness modern olive oil production, all while enjoying the warm hospitality of a family preserving their legacy. This 100-minute experience is a must-do for wine and foodies visiting Lasithi.