Vidiano (also known as Avidiano) was, until recently, an emerging variety from Crete. It has now established its success on the island and has already begun to make its first steps into other Greek wine regions, starting with Northern Greece. It originates from the Rethymno area and the municipality of Mylopotamos. This variety was nearly lost but owes its revival to some visionary and ambitious producers on the island who believed in it.
Today,
As a plant, it is vigorous and productive, with its ripening period occurring from early to mid-September. Planting it in dry limestone soils limits its yield while enhancing the quality of the raw material. The grapes have a golden-yellow color, similar to the wine it produces. The main cultivated areas are located in the regions of Rethymno and Heraklion in Crete.
The aromas of this variety are pleasant and complex, predominantly featuring fruity notes of citrus, peach, apricot, banana, pineapple, and hints of minerality. The acidity is moderate, with the alcohol content relatively high, around 13% - 13.5%, and a full body. It is typically vinified in stainless steel tanks, using classic white winemaking techniques, and often remains in contact with the fine lees, gaining aromas of yeast and brioche, as well as a fuller mouthfeel. Aging in barrels suits it well and is common, imparting notes of vanilla and nuts to the final wine, while also enhancing the sensation of creaminess on the palate.
Other winemaking methods that have proven successful for Vidiano include the application of red winemaking and/or in amphorae, resulting in orange wines, as well as the production of sparkling wines using the traditional method. The orange wines acquire additional aromas of dried fruits, exotic spices, or citrus peels from contact with the skins. The body gains a slight tannic structure and intense depth. For sparkling wines, the harvest is done early, and the grapes come from the more mountainous vineyards. It can be vinified alone or blended with both Greek and foreign varieties. The most common combinations are with Assyrtiko, Malvasia, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Vidiano belongs to the gifted category of varieties capable of producing wines that are easy and enjoyable for immediate consumption, while also having the potential to create exceptional wines that can age for a decade or more. It participates with other varieties in the wines of the Protected Designation of Origin Chania - Candia and contributes either alone or in combination with other Greek and foreign varieties to the local wines (PGI) of the regions of Crete.