The PGI Rethimno (ΠΓΕ Ρέθυμνο) is a regional appellation covering the entire winegrowing area of Rethimno and includes all vineyards at an altitude of more than 30 meters.

Characteristics

The splendid Psiloritis mountain to the east and the Lefka Ori to the west form the boundaries of the viticultural areas of PGI Rethimno. This is a relatively mountainous area with complex topography. Some vineyards are planted at altitudes up to 900m. above sea level. The climate is mild and Mediterranean influenced by the sea or the mountains. Most of the vineyards are located in the central part of Rethimno, in the area of Arkadi and in the northeast, in the wider area of Mylopotamos.

Wine types:

• White dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet, sweet, fortified sweet, sweet from dried grapes
• Rosé dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet, sweet, fortified sweet, sweet from sun-dried grapes
• Red dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet, sweet, fortified sweet, sweet from dried grapes

The grape varieties
Rethimno used to be a bulk-wine producer and bottled wine is a relatively recent phenomenon in the region. However, quality wine production has been steadily grown during the last few years. White wines bearing the PGI Rethimno are solely made from Cretan grape varieties such as Vidiano, Vilana and Thrapsathiri. In regards to red wine, Liatiko dominates the local production and is one of the most important grape varieties. Rare plantings of international grape varieties add more diversity in the local vineyard.

Permitted grape varieties:

White Wines
Indigenous: Athiri, Vidiano, Vilana, Thrapsathiri, Moschato Aspro

Red Wines
Indigenous: Kotsifali, Liatiko, Mandilaria, Romeiko
International: Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache Rouge, Syrah.

Rosé wines
All grape varieties permitted in white and red wine production, are allowed.