Dafni
The Rescued Aromatic
Dafni is grown in Crete and Heraklion.
- Tastes of
- bay leaf, citrus, mediterranean herbs and floral
- Goes with
- herb-crusted fish, cretan cuisine and aromatic dishes
The story
Dafni was rescued from extinction by Lyrarakis. Only 50 vines remained in the 1990s. The grape produces wines that smell of laurel and Mediterranean herbs.
Insider story
Popi Lyraraki discovered Dafni in an old vineyard. The grape's unusual aromatics—laurel, bay leaf—convinced her it was worth saving.
The first commercial Dafni was released in 2003.
Technical deep dive
Aromatic whites with moderate acidity and pronounced herbal character.
Flavor profile: laurel, bay leaf, citrus, Mediterranean herbs, white flowers.
Industry secrets
Dafni's salvation story inspired a movement in Crete.
The wine pairs with Cretan mountain cuisine.
For collectors
Investment grade D
- Auction records
- No auction market
- Blue-chip producers
-
- Lyrarakis
- Value picks
- Lyrarakis Dafni ($18-25)
- Price trend
- Stable. Niche variety.
- Collector’s tip
- Buy for curiosity.