Harvest Season in Vathypetro, Archanes (Heraklion, Crete)
The smiling five-year-old boy in the photograph grew up to become the visionary founder of Minoan Fruits, Mr. Nikolaos Giannidakis.
The story of Minoan Fruits begins long before its official establishment in 2007. The Giannidakis family, with its entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering passion, has been engaged in viticulture and the trade of table grapes for three generations. Originating from the renowned wine-producing region of Archanes, their products embody the authentic traditions of Crete.
“I remember when I was a child, my father would load the truck with vegetables and fruits to sell at the local market. I would shout through the loudspeaker, ‘Fresh fruits and vegetables,’ and today we’ve come this far…” shares Mr. Giannidakis.
The Family Commitment
Mr. Nikolaos Giannidakis personally oversaw the design and construction of the company’s facilities. Completed in 2007, this project opened new pathways for the distribution of premium Cretan agricultural products, strengthening the local economy and the primary sector.
With deep respect for their roots and a forward-looking vision, Minoan Fruits blends tradition with modern innovation, implementing Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) to produce top-quality products that meet global standards.
A New Chapter: Kriti Allios
In 2022, the family expanded their vision by creating Kriti Allios, an agritourism destination that welcomes visitors from across the globe. Nestled among the family’s private vineyards, Kriti Allios offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Guests can enjoy:
- Tasting local delicacies, including the award-winning Minoan Gold extra virgin olive oil.
- Guided vineyard and olive grove tours, showcasing the natural beauty and agricultural heritage of Crete.
- Hands-on experiences, such as participating in seasonal harvests or observing the production process.
- Visits to the traditional “Metochi,” the heart of Kriti Allios, where rustic charm meets authentic hospitality.
“While my wife, Mrs. Despina Voukyklaki, and I envisioned creating an agritourism experience, the most rewarding part has been the heartfelt reviews from our visitors. The fourth generation of our family continues this legacy, offering everyone a chance to experience the warmth of Cretan hospitality,” says Mr. Giannidakis.
The Digital Expansion of 2024
The launch of our e-shop, www.kritiallios.gr, marked a turning point for Minoan Fruits. This platform allows our authentic Cretan products, including the premium Minoan Gold, to reach customers worldwide, bringing the taste and heritage of Crete directly to your home.
Our active presence on social media fosters a strong connection with our community. Through every post, we share authentic moments, such as:
- The olive harvest and production process highlighting the care and dedication behind each product.
- Visitor experiences, from vineyard tours to tastings at Kriti Allios.
- Traditional activities and everyday life showcase the heart of Minoan Fruits and Kriti Allios.
Your support has been the cornerstone of our success. To show our gratitude, we held our first contest in 2025, offering winners the opportunity to experience Minoan Gold firsthand. The first recipients have already enjoyed their prizes, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming more winners to an unforgettable agritourism adventure.
Heritage and Innovation in Harmony
Today, Minoan Fruits, Kriti Allios, and our e-shop bridge the past and future, blending respect for tradition with cutting-edge practices. Our mission is to share the authentic culture, products, and experiences of Crete with the world.
And the story goes on…