Grape Variety
Liatiko
"lee-AH-tee-koh"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Liatiko
Origin
Crete, Greece
History
Liatiko is an ancient red grape variety indigenous to Crete, with cultivation dating back to the 3rd or 2nd century BC. It was historically significant during the Middle Ages, particularly under Venetian rule, when it was used in producing the renowned Malvasia wine. The name 'Liatiko' is derived from 'Iouliatiko,' meaning 'of July,' referencing its early ripening period.
Appearance
Dark-skinned berries with a deep blue-black hue.
Growing Traits
Liatiko is a vigorous vine that ripens early, typically in July. Despite its dark skin, the grape produces wines with relatively low color intensity. It thrives in the warm, Mediterranean climate of Crete, particularly in regions like Dafnes and Sitia.
Wine Characteristics
Body
3/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
3/5
Acidity
3/5
Alcohol
4/5
Medium-bodied with a balanced structure, offering depth and complexity. Typically dry, though it excels in sweet wine styles as well. Moderate tannin levels, contributing to a firm and slightly astringent mouthfeel. Medium acidity, providing balance and freshness to the wine. High alcohol content, generally around 13-14%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Taste Profile
Red berries
Vanilla
Candied fruit (in sweet styles)
Herbal
Dried fruits
Liatiko wines are characterized by rich, ripe red fruit flavors and sweet spices. Dry versions offer a full palate with high alcohol levels and soft tannins, while sweet styles, made from sun-dried grapes, exhibit intensified candied fruit characters and concentrated acidity.
Food Pairing
Liatiko's medium body and complex flavor profile make it a versatile companion for various dishes. Dry versions pair well with grilled lamb skewers and deep-dish pizza, while sweet styles complement raisin cake and other desserts.
Growing Regions
Greece
CreteDafnesSitia
Notable Wines & Producers
Douloufakis Liatiko
Douloufakis Winery
Lyrarakis Aggelis Liatiko
Lyrarakis Wines
Domaine Economou Liatiko
Domaine Economou
Liatiko FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Liatiko?
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Crete, Greece
Is Liatiko wine full bodied?
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Liatiko has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Liatiko is Moderate bodied.
Is Liatiko wine dry or sweet?
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Liatiko has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Liatiko is Dry.
Where is Liatiko wine from?
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Crete, Greece
Where is Liatiko grown?
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Liatiko is grown in Greece (Crete, Dafnes, Sitia).
What is Liatiko like?
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Liatiko wines are characterized by rich, ripe red fruit flavors and sweet spices. Dry versions offer a full palate with high alcohol levels and soft tannins, while sweet styles, made from sun-dried grapes, exhibit intensified candied fruit characters and concentrated acidity.
What does Liatiko pair with?
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Liatiko's medium body and complex flavor profile make it a versatile companion for various dishes. Dry versions pair well with grilled lamb skewers and deep-dish pizza, while sweet styles complement raisin cake and other desserts.
What does Liatiko taste like?
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Liatiko wines are characterized by rich, ripe red fruit flavors and sweet spices. Dry versions offer a full palate with high alcohol levels and soft tannins, while sweet styles, made from sun-dried grapes, exhibit intensified candied fruit characters and concentrated acidity.
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