Ampelourgein

Overview & Philosophy

Ampelourgein is a boutique natural wine estate founded in 1997 by Nikos Papadakis.
Located in the mountainous region of Schinokapsala, in the Lasithi area of Crete, the estate focuses on low-intervention winemaking, minimal additives, and the authentic expression of indigenous Cretan grape varieties.
Its vineyards are scattered across high elevations, remote from pollution, and include old, self-rooted vines that are over a century old.
The guiding philosophy is one of respect for the natural balance between vine, soil, and environment.

Vineyard & Terroir

• Elevation & Distribution: Vineyards range between 850 and 1,150 meters above sea level, located on steep mountain slopes.

• Vine Age & Rooting: Many vines are self-rooted (ungrafted) and more than 100 years old, producing small yields of concentrated fruit.

• Viticulture: The vineyards are managed according to organic and low-input principles, with minimal external interference.

• Location & Purity: The estate’s remoteness from urban and agricultural pollution allows for pristine environmental conditions and pure site expression.

• Climate: High elevation and strong diurnal temperature variation help maintain natural acidity, aromatic intensity, and slow ripening.

• Soils: The terrain is rocky and calcareous, with thin, mineral-rich soils that stress the vines, enhancing depth and minerality in the wines.

Grape Varieties & Wines

Ampelourgein showcases native Cretan varieties through expressive, natural wines that emphasize terroir and authenticity.

Label / WineGrape VarietiesVinification NotesCharacter / StyleAnthosmiaThrapsathiri, Dafni, Moschato SpinasIndigenous yeasts, minimal interventionFloral and herbal with mineral notes, vibrant acidity, and mountain freshness.RodalosLiatikoWild fermentation, rosé styleDelicate red fruit, fresh acidity, and a light, elegant structure.ErotodiomatrisKotsifali, MandilariaNatural fermentation, no additivesAromatic, balanced red blend with earthy and spicy nuances.Magiovotano (Wild Ferment Liatiko)100% LiatikoWild fermentation, unfiltered, low sulfurDeep color, black fruit, and herbal tones with a rustic, natural edge.

Ampelourgein wines are known for their purity, freshness, and the clear reflection of high-altitude Cretan terroir.

Technical & Operational Details

• Location / Facilities: Winemaking and aging take place in Schinokapsala, Lasithi (southeastern Crete).

• Fermentation: Conducted with indigenous yeasts; no added enzymes or commercial yeasts.

• Additives: Minimal to no sulfites; no chemical corrections or flavor adjustments.

• Filtration: Wines are typically unfiltered or only lightly filtered to preserve natural texture and character.

• Aging: Reds often undergo extended aging in tank or bottle (up to 18 months) to stabilize naturally before release.

• Scale: Small, artisanal production, focusing on limited quantities of handcrafted wines.

• Wine Tourism: The estate offers guided tastings and vineyard tours across its mountain plots, including educational experiences centered on Cretan varieties and natural farming.

Strengths & Distinctive Points

• High-altitude vineyards (up to 1,150 m) yield wines with freshness and aromatic intensity.

• Centuries-old self-rooted vines provide concentration and authenticity.

• Natural winemaking philosophy that prioritizes terroir expression over manipulation.

• Focus on indigenous Cretan grapes — preserving and reviving local biodiversity.

• Balanced, expressive wines that bridge ancient viticulture with modern natural wine craftsmanship.

• Strong identity and sense of place, rooted in Crete’s rugged, mountainous landscape.