Manousakis Winery
Discover Manousakis Winery, a family-run gem in Crete, offering exceptional Nostos wines, rich history, and breathtaking vineyard views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the midday sun
Manousakis Winery
Best Time
Escape the midday sun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Manousakis Winery, a family-run gem in Crete, offering exceptional Nostos wines, rich history, and breathtaking vineyard views.
"This place is absolutely magical! The staff is friendly and patiently explains everything. "
🎯 Book Ahead for Tours
Secure your spot for the free winery tour and €15 tasting by booking at least a day in advance. :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be walking around the winery grounds, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nostos Wine Tasting
Winery Gardens
Savor 5 distinct Nostos wines, from crisp whites to rich reds, paired with local delicacies. A true taste of Crete.
The Founder's Story
Winery Grounds
Hear the inspiring tale of Theodore Manousakis, who returned to his roots to create this magical winery.
Artistic Bottle Designs
Wine Bottles
Admire the unique, artistic labels on each Nostos bottle, reflecting the owner's personal touch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Wine Experience
Beat the Cretan Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Tours
Secure your spot for the free winery tour and €15 tasting by booking at least a day in advance. :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be walking around the winery grounds, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Easy Parking Available
Plenty of free parking is available on-site, making arrival hassle-free. :car:
📸 Capture the Art
Don't miss the unique bottle art and picturesque vineyard views for great photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Tours
Secure your spot for the free winery tour and €15 tasting by booking at least a day in advance. :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be walking around the winery grounds, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Easy Parking Available
Plenty of free parking is available on-site, making arrival hassle-free. :car:
📸 Capture the Art
Don't miss the unique bottle art and picturesque vineyard views for great photos.
🍽️ Delicious Food Options
Enjoy flavorful local dishes and charcuterie boards to complement your wine tasting. :knifeforkplate:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Manousakis Winery for its magical atmosphere, delicious wines, and the inspiring story behind its founding. The friendly staff and beautiful setting contribute to a highly recommended experience, though some note the heat can be a factor during peak summer months.
"I hope my review reaches you on time, unknown passenger. Because if you love wine, inspiring origin stories you’ll probably enjoy their (free) tour.
The winery founder was born in the house that’s still in the yard in 1943. He and his siblings were sent to America to find a better life due to their parents’ inability to take care of them.
Fast forward few decades, the owner became schooled business person who decided to invest in long-left-behind home and open the winery.
I cut the story enough to spark an interest in visiting them so you can hear the full version (more details and emotions).
The tour takes you from origin place and story to new winery where you’ll be shown the steps in their processes of making their wines.
In the end you’ll be tasting 5 different wines (2 white and 3 red - unless they change something in the meantime :)) and order the food from the menu.
Price:
- tour: free
- tasting 15€
- food: average restaurant prices
Note re booking: we booked the time for tour one day ahead. Not sure if possible with shorter term.
Our cost:
- tour
- tasting
- 2 orange cakes
- t-shirt and apron from their store
= 120€"
Ivan Dabić
"This place is absolutely magical!
The staff is friendly and patiently explains everything.
The wines were all so delicious — it was honestly hard to choose a favorite.
The food was excellent and full of flavor.
The only downside was the heat, which was a bit uncomfortable.
But if you come when it’s not during peak heat, it’s highly recommended!"
Meri Porat Makeup And Hair
"The tour of the winery followed by wine sampling (of 5 wines) is highly recommended at €15 per person (tour is free).
The wine sampling takes place in the beautiful gardens and you can order lunch too from a reasonably varied menu.
Definitely worth an afternoon out of you are staying in the Chania area, plenty of free parking and fairly good signposting to get there."
Jon Rawlings
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Manousakis Winery is located in Vatolakkos, about a 30-minute drive from Chania. You can drive yourself and utilize their free parking, or take a bus from Chania.
Yes, it's possible to reach Manousakis Winery by bus from Chania, making it accessible for those without a car.
The winery is situated in Vatolakkos, a village near the Lefka Ori mountains. Follow signs for Vatolakkos from Chania.
Absolutely! Manousakis Winery offers plenty of free parking, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
It's approximately a 30-minute drive from Chania Old Town to Manousakis Winery, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the tour is free, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for tastings and to ensure availability. Booking a day ahead is advised.
The wine tasting experience at Manousakis Winery costs €15 per person and includes sampling of 5 different wines.
Yes, the guided tour of Manousakis Winery, which covers its history and winemaking process, is free of charge.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on tours and tasting times.
While walk-ins might be accommodated if space allows, it's strongly recommended to book your tour and tasting in advance to guarantee your experience.
🎫 🍇 Onsite Experience
You'll taste 5 of their Nostos wines, often paired with local cheeses and meats. The staff are knowledgeable and share insights into each wine.
Yes, Manousakis Winery offers a menu with delicious local dishes, including lamb and charcuterie boards, perfect to accompany your wine.
Manousakis Winery is a beautiful and popular venue for weddings, offering a romantic setting amidst the vineyards.
'Nostos' means nostalgic in Greek. The winery was founded out of the founder's nostalgia for his home in Crete, and this sentiment is reflected in the wines.
Yes, you can purchase bottles of your favorite Nostos wines directly from the winery's store to take home.
📸 📸 Photography
The vineyard rows, the charming winery buildings, the gardens, and the artistically designed wine bottles all offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Manousakis Winery sometimes hosts 'Paint & Wine' events, which can also be great for creative photography.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos during the winery tour to capture the experience and the beautiful surroundings.
The bottle art is unique and personal, designed by the owner, adding an artistic touch to each bottle of Nostos wine.
The picturesque vineyards and romantic ambiance make Manousakis Winery an ideal location for engagement photoshoots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the late afternoon to avoid the peak heat, which can be more comfortable for younger visitors. While the tasting is for adults, children can enjoy the scenic surroundings and perhaps some of the food options available.
🥂 Couples and Romantic Getaways
It's also a popular and picturesque venue for weddings, highlighting its romantic appeal. The serene setting and the story behind the winery add an extra layer of charm for a memorable visit.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
The knowledgeable staff are passionate about their wines and happy to answer any questions, making the tasting experience both educational and enjoyable. Don't miss the chance to discover the distinct flavors of Cretan terroir.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Nostos Wine Collection
Visitors often rave about the tasting experience, where they can sample several of these distinct wines. The Nostos Roussanne is frequently highlighted for its complexity, while the Nostos Vidiano is praised for its aromatic profile. For those seeking a taste of local tradition, the Nostos Romeiko offers a glimpse into ancient Cretan winemaking.
Beyond the well-known varietals, the winery also produces other notable wines, including a Nostos Pink Manousakis (Rosé) and blends that showcase the winemaker's artistry. The personal touch in the wine, from the vineyard to the bottle's unique artistic label, makes each sip a memorable experience.
A Family's Dream: The Manousakis Legacy
This return sparked the creation of Manousakis Winery, a testament to his nostalgia and vision. The winery is not just a business; it's a dream brought to life, filled with heart and history that embodies the best of Greek culture. The staff, often family members or long-time employees, welcome visitors like old friends, sharing the winery's journey with passion.
Alexandra Manousakis, a new generation winemaker, continues this legacy, bringing fresh perspectives while honoring the winery's heritage. This blend of tradition and innovation is palpable in every aspect of the winery, from the vineyard management to the final bottled product.
More Than Just Wine: Events and Experiences
+1For those looking for creative engagement, the winery occasionally hosts 'Paint & Wine' events. These sessions combine a guided painting experience with wine tasting in their beautiful garden, offering a fun and artistic way to enjoy the winery's offerings.
Furthermore, Manousakis Winery has partnered with local tour operators for special wine dinners, allowing guests to enjoy a full culinary experience under the stars, further enhancing the magical atmosphere of the estate.
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