The variety Malvasia Aromatica holds a significant place in the winemaking history of our region, having contributed to the production of the renowned Malvasia wines since Byzantine times. There are two regions that claim its origin. One is Crete, where it is believed that the name of the variety comes from the area of Malevizi, which is why it is called Malvasia di Candia (Candia – the historical name for Heraklion until the 19th century). The other is Monemvasia, which was referred to as Malvasia by the Franks, and from its port, the wine of the same name was exported. In addition to Greece, it can be found in many wine regions around the world, such as Italy, Spain, Croatia, and more.
Wines made from the Malvasia variety are intensely aromatic. In their youth, they are characterized by aromas of rose, night-blooming jasmine, citrus, and stone fruits, while with slight aging, they develop notes of orange peel, toasted nuts, and honey.
From the Malvasia Aromatica variety, single-varietal dry wines are produced, and it is often blended with other varieties such as Vilana, Moschato Aspro (Spinas), Assyrtiko, Kydonitsa, Roditis, Vidiano, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay. Additionally, it is used in the production of sweet wines made from sun-dried grapes, or in fortified wines from sun-dried grapes, some of which are Protected Designation of Origin, such as the wines PDO Malvasia Sitia and PDO Malvasia Chandakas – Candia.