Kotsifali
Crete's Blending Partner
Kotsifali is grown in Crete, Peza and Archanes.
- Tastes of
- red berries, plum, herbs and spice
- Goes with
- cretan stews, grilled lamb and mezze
The story
Kotsifali is Crete's most planted red grape, traditionally blended with Mandilaria for balance and complexity.
Insider story
Kotsifali was long dismissed as a bulk grape. Quality-focused producers proved low-yield Kotsifali has personality.
The traditional 50/50 blend with Mandilaria is balanced and age-worthy.
Technical deep dive
Medium-bodied reds with soft tannins (1,500-2,200 mg/L) and generous fruit.
Flavor profile: red cherry, plum, herbs, Mediterranean spices.
Industry secrets
Kotsifali/Mandilaria blends are Crete's answer to Côtes du Rhône.
The grape makes surprisingly good rosé.
For collectors
Investment grade C-
- Auction records
- No auction market
- Blue-chip producers
-
- Lyrarakis
- Boutari
- Miliarakis
- Value picks
- Cretan blends ($12-25)
- Price trend
- Stable. Value category.
- Collector’s tip
- Drink, don't invest.