Vilana is an old Greek white wine grape from the island of Crete.
Vilana is the undisputed queen of white varieties of the island
Vilana show flavors of Lemon, Orange, Pear, Flowers (Jasmine), and Herbs.
![]() Lemon |
![]() Orange |
![]() Apple |
![]() Pear |
![]() Peach |
![]() Jasmine |
![]() Herbs |
![]() Spices |
Vilana is fresh, light in body yet broad in shape, with soft acidity and medium alcohol:
SUGAR: | Dry (3 g/l) |
BODY: | Light |
FRUIT: | Medium - Low |
ACIDITY: | Medium - Plus |
ALCOHOL: | 11-12% ABV |
![]() |
Serving temperature: 8-10°C (46-50°F) |
Vilana is a typical fish or pasta wine.
![]() Aperitif |
![]() Olive Oil |
![]() Olives |
![]() Tapas |
![]() Salads |
![]() Vegetables |
![]() Fish |
![]() Fish and Chips |
![]() Seafood |
![]() Fish Soup |
![]() Spaghetti |
![]() Pasta |
Greece Cuisine.
Salads. Olive Oil. Tomatoes.
Vegetables. Artichoke. Arugula. Asparagus.
Fennel. Pesto. Spinach. Zucchini.
Japanese Fusion. Sushi. Tempura.
Fried Calamari. Crab. Lobster.
Seafood Pasta. Spaghetti with Clams.
Tomato based Sauces.
Greek salads. Tomato. Cucumber. Olives. Feta.
![]() |
The Sauvignon Blanc glass is smaller than a Chardonnay glass. It has a more narrow bowl to concentrate the crisp and citrusy aromas of zesty and fruity white wines. |
Vilana is known for its crisp and fruity profile. It pairs well with a variety of cheeses.
Opt for cheeses with moderate saltiness and creaminess to balance the wine's acidity. You can also add accompaniments like fresh fruits (grapes, apples, pears), nuts (almonds, walnuts), and a light drizzle of honey to enhance the pairing.
Mozzarella: Its delicate flavor pairs well with the wine's lightness.
Ricotta: Especially good if served with a drizzle of honey or fresh fruits.
Goat Cheese (Chèvre): The tanginess complements the subtle fruit notes in Vilana.
Fontina: Its nutty, buttery qualities make a good match.
Brie: The creamy texture and mild flavor work beautifully with Vilana.
Camembert: Similar to Brie but with slightly more earthiness.
Asiago: Lightly aged Asiago adds a complementary tang to the wine.
Manchego: A classic Spanish pairing, especially younger Manchego, which is less intense.
Gruyère: Mildly nutty and sweet, enhancing the wine's subtlety.
Robiola: Its mild creaminess contrasts nicely without overpowering the wine.
Black Grapes |
White Grapes |
![]() |
![]() |
Soil |
Climate |
![]()
Fertile. |
![]()
Hot. |
Crete is the largest Greek island. It has a long winemaking history, dating back thousands of years, with an array indigenous grapes:
Liatiko is used to make both dry and sweet red wines, often with a light to medium body and hints of dried fruit.
Kotsifali, often blended with Mandilaria, creates balanced, fruit-forward reds.
Vilana is the most important white grape of the island.
Vidiano is an emerging star. It produces high-quality wines with moderate acidity and complex aromas of peach, apricot, melon, herbs and honey.
Crete as 4 PDO regions created in 1971:
Dry Reds from Kotsifali and Mandilaria
Dry Reds from 100% Liatiko
Sweet Red from 100% sun-dried Liatiko
Sweet Red from 100% fortified Liatiko
Dry Reds from Kotsifali and Mandilaria
Dry Whites from 100% Vilana
Dry Reds from min 80% Liatiko and Mandilaria
Dry Whites: from 70% Vilana and 30 Thrapsathiri
Sweet Reds from 100% sun-dried Liatiko
Sweet Reds from 100% fortified Liatiko
Alcohol can be addictive. Always drink in moderation.
© Copyright 2015-2025 W3 Wine School. All Rights Reserved.