Every generation has a bright star, a few like Stelios Alexakis will continue to flicker down through the ages. His reach extended beyond Crete leaving a lasting presence of a brilliant career.
Wine would have never benefited from this exceptional figure if not for the Military Junta(1967-1974). After graduating from the Evelpides military academy he was a junior officer destined for greater things. Shortly after the military coup he resigned and put to good use his chemist degree by opening an analysis laboratory in Heraklio. Through these then novel services he gained valuable insight of his islands best vineyards. He went on to be come a major figure in Greek wine when he founded in 1981 Vinobon. He soon became the most important in size bulk wine merchant, not your usual rough around the edges operation. He invested to such a degree and his perfectionism was such that he was ahead of his time. He actually became an inspiration to the boutique wineries growth on the fifth largest island of the Mediterranean. He looked to Europe by sending his eldest son Lazaros to study in Florence and to the new world for Apostolos at Fresno State in California. They had foreseen the end of bulk era investing in vineyards at Agios Thomas(600m) one of the finest sources of high Crete vineyards where the foundations of a new estate have been laid.
Stelios Alexakis had the vision to grasp the changes needed and set about bringing in legislature to bring a then sleeper Crete into a new era now counting 45 wineries. With over 30 unique indigenous varieties and a band of gifted technicians it is the most exciting wine region in the country.
Greek wine gained a needed leader and his stewardship was one with the least amount of mistakes. He simply saw it and led with conviction. Navigating political minefields and big egos seemed easy for this determined gifted man. His prodigious memory for business contracts and details of his personal life were outstanding. He also left a lot unsaid and continued to communicate through a twinkle in his eyes. His half grin spoke volumes. Farewell Stelios and thank you for your generous leadership qualities.