Sylva Daskalaki Winery is a family-owned estate located in the village of Siva, in the Heraklion Prefecture of Crete. With viticultural roots dating back to the 1920s, the winery combines tradition with innovation, focusing on expressive wines that reflect the terroir of PDO Dafnes and the diversity of Cretan vineyards, guided by organic and biodynamic principles.

Tradition and Evolution

The Daskalaki family’s connection to viticulture dates back to the early 20th century in the village of Siva, an area long associated with wine production. In 1998, Irini Daskalaki Xenogiannaki formally established Sylva Daskalaki Winery, building on generations of family knowledge with the aim of producing wines that express the character of the land and Cretan heritage.

The name “Sylva” derives from the village of Siva, which local tradition links to Dionysus, the ancient Greek god of wine. This cultural connection reflects the winery’s deep ties to history, mythology, and place.

From the outset, the family revitalised approximately 90 privately owned acres of vineyards, cultivating them organically at elevations reaching up to 500 metres. In 2003, the winery invested in modern production and bottling facilities, allowing greater control over quality. The first official bottlings were released in 2004, including PDO Dafnes dry and naturally sweet wines based on Liatiko.

International recognition soon followed. In 2006, the winery received a Grand Gold Medal at an international wine competition, marking a milestone for both the estate and Cretan wine on the global stage. Since then, Sylva Daskalaki Winery has continued to develop its portfolio while remaining firmly rooted in family values and sustainable practices.

The Landscape of Siva

Sylva Daskalaki’s vineyards are located in and around the village of Siva in central Crete, within and beyond the PDO Dafnes zone. The region benefits from a Mediterranean climate characterised by mild winters, warm summers, and balanced rainfall, creating favourable conditions for healthy vine growth and consistent ripening.

Estate-owned vineyards cover approximately 90 hectares, complemented by a further 100 hectares cultivated in collaboration with local growers. Vineyard parcels are situated at elevations ranging from 500 to 750 metres, contributing freshness, structure, and complexity to the wines.

Soils vary across the vineyards, supporting a wide range of grape varieties. Organic viticulture has long been practised, with an increasing emphasis on biodynamic methods in recent years. This holistic approach enhances soil vitality, promotes biodiversity, and allows each vineyard site to express its unique characteristics.

  • Liatiko – Indigenous red variety central to PDO Dafnes wines.
  • Kotsifali – Traditional Cretan red with structure and warmth.
  • Mandilaria – Robust red variety contributing depth and intensity.
  • Vidiano – Indigenous white variety with texture and aromatic complexity.
  • Thrapsathiri – Fresh, expressive white grape of Crete.
  • Plyto – Rare indigenous white variety.
  • Muscat of Spina – Aromatic white variety.
  • Syrah – International red variety well suited to Cretan conditions.
  • Cabernet Sauvignon – Adds structure and ageing potential.
  • Merlot – Contributes softness and balance.
  • Chardonnay – International white with freshness and depth.
  • Sauvignon Blanc – Aromatic white variety.
  • Semillon – Used for blending and texture.

Wine / Vintage

Award / Rating

Competition / Publication

Instinct Red (Syrah–Kotsifali)

Grand Gold Medal

International Wine Competition

Multiple Wines

Gold, Silver & Bronze Medals

Decanter World Wine Awards

Multiple Wines

Gold & Silver Medals

Concours Mondial de Bruxelles

Multiple Wines

Gold & Silver Medals

Berlin Wine Trophy

Multiple Wines

Medals

International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC)

Sylva Daskalaki Winery is a family-owned estate located in the village of Siva, in the Heraklion Prefecture of Crete. With viticultural roots dating back to the 1920s, the winery combines tradition with innovation, focusing on expressive wines that reflect the terroir of PDO Dafnes and the diversity of Cretan vineyards, guided by organic and biodynamic […]