Cyprus Wines

Commandaria: The Oldest Wine in the World

Known as the “wine of kings and the king of wines,” Commandaria holds a prestigious place in the history of winemaking. Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest named wine still in production, Commandaria hails from the sun-drenched vineyards of Cyprus.

A Taste of History

According to legend, King Richard the Lionheart was enchanted by Commandaria during his wedding in 1191. He famously declared it “the wine of kings,” reflecting its royal pedigree and the esteem in which it was held. The wine’s rich history can actually be traced even further back. The first recorded description comes from Hesiod, an ancient Greek poet, who praised the wine in his writings.

The Grapes Behind Commandaria

Commandaria is crafted primarily from two grape varieties: Mavro (a red grape) and Xynisteri (a white grape). These grapes are often harvested together from the same vineyard, contributing to the wine’s unique flavor profile. The production process involves sun-drying the grapes to concentrate their sugars, which results in a luscious, sweet wine with complex flavors and aromas.

The Legacy of Commandaria

Traditionally, Commandaria is enjoyed as a dessert wine, paired perfectly with cheeses, nuts, or enjoyed on its own. Its historical significance, exquisite taste, and royal connections make Commandaria not just a drink but a symbol of Cyprus’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply curious about historic beverages, sampling Commandaria offers a delightful glimpse into the past.

Conclusion

From royal weddings to ancient literature, Commandaria’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of winemaking history. Embrace the taste of tradition and discover why this remarkable wine has stood the test of time. Would you like to know more about the winemaking process or perhaps recommendations on where to enjoy Commandaria in Cyprus?

Discovering Cyprus Wines: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Cyprus boasts a rich vinicultural history, with evidence of winemaking dating back thousands of years. This illustrious tradition is epitomized by Commandaria, recognized as the world’s oldest named wine still in production. The island’s commitment to its winemaking heritage is evident as both ancient grape varieties and traditional methods persist, while at the same time, the industry has embraced modern advancements, leading to a thriving wine culture that’s both contemporary and steeped in history.

The Wine Regions of Cyprus

Cyprus is home to several charming wineries and wine-growing regions, particularly concentrated along seven designated wine routes. The two most prominent wine-producing areas are:

  1. Paphos Region: This area, known for its picturesque landscapes and gentle climate, is home to a number of vineyards producing high-quality wines. The region’s diverse terroir allows for a variety of grape types and styles, offering wine lovers an opportunity to explore unique local flavors.
  2. Lemesos (Limassol) Region: As Cyprus’s largest wine-growing area, Lemesos is famous for its rich viticultural heritage. Here, you can find both traditional and modern wineries, many of which invite visitors for tastings and tours. The area is particularly known for its sweet dessert wines, including Commandaria.

Modernization of Winemaking

The quality of Cypriot wines has significantly improved over the years, thanks to the introduction of modern winemaking techniques and the passion of both established and emerging vintners. These advancements have allowed winemakers to enhance the flavor profiles of traditional varieties like Mavro and Xynisteri, while also experimenting with international grapes.

Despite these innovations, the soul of Cypriot winemaking remains rooted in its deep traditions. Many wineries still honor ancient techniques, giving visitors a unique glimpse into the past while enjoying the fruits of modern ingenuity.

A Wine Lover’s Paradise

Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply a lover of good wine, Cyprus offers an abundance of experiences. Visitors can explore numerous charming wineries, each with its own story and unique approach to winemaking. From vineyard tours and tastings to festivals celebrating the grape harvest, there is no shortage of opportunities to indulge in Cyprus’s wine culture.

The island’s wines, once revered as “nectar of the Gods,” continue to capture the hearts of locals and visitors alike. With its combination of ancient traditions and innovative practices, Cyprus remains a hidden gem in the world of wine.

Conclusion

As you sip on a glass of Cypriot wine, you partake in a legacy that spans millennia. Explore the beautiful landscapes, taste the exquisite flavors, and immerse yourself in the rich culture that surrounds Cyprus’s winemaking. Whether you’re wandering along the scenic wine routes or enjoying a bottle at a local tavern, the wines of Cyprus promise an unforgettable experience. Would you like recommendations on specific wineries to visit or particular wines to try during your exploration of Cyprus?

Paphos Wine Routes

Discovering the Diarizos Valley Wine Route

The Diarizos Valley Wine Route offers a unique and scenic journey through one of Cyprus’s lesser-known yet enchanting wine-producing regions. Located east of Paphos (Pafos), this verdant route guides you along the Diarizos River, showcasing unspoiled landscapes and charming villages, all while highlighting the region’s burgeoning wine industry.

Journey Through Nature and Vineyards

The Diarizos Valley Wine Route is characterized by its beautiful green scenery and picturesque vineyards, making it a delightful experience for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts alike. The route traverses 14 hilly villages, including:

  • Pafos
  • Acheleia
  • Kouklia
  • Nikokleia
  • Choletria
  • Stavrokonnou
  • Kelokedara
  • Salamiou
  • Mesana
  • Arminou
  • Filousa
  • Agios Nikolaos
  • Praitori
  • Kedares
  • Agios Georgios
  • Mamonia
  • Fasoula

Notable Wineries

While there are many charming villages to explore, you can stop at two key wineries that are making their mark in Cypriot winemaking. These wineries are committed to enhancing the reputation of the Diarizos Valley by producing high-quality wines. The region is particularly known for its Mavro variety, a native red grape that thrives in this tranquil setting.

A Unique Terroir

The wines from the Diarizos Valley are distinct, partly due to the area’s lower altitude compared to other main wine-growing regions in Cyprus. Rising upwards, you will discover 18 different types of vines, showcasing the area’s diversity and potential. The combination of local grape varieties, combined with the unique climate and soil conditions, contributes to the remarkable wines produced here.

Hospitality and Exploration

As you travel through the Diarizos Valley, you’ll be greeted by the genuine hospitality of the local people, who are eager to share their knowledge and passion for winemaking. The combination of stunning landscapes, interesting flora and fauna, and the delights of the region’s expanding wine trade makes this route an enriching experience.

Conclusion

The Diarizos Valley Wine Route offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the tranquil beauty of Cyprus’s wine country while savoring the exceptional wines produced in this emerging region. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a curious traveler, this scenic journey promises unforgettable moments, delightful tastes, and a deeper appreciation for Cypriot winemaking. If you’re planning a visit, would you like more information on specific wineries, local cuisine to try, or other attractions along the route?

Exploring the Laona – Akamas Wine Route

The Laona – Akamas Wine Route invites you to journey through the rugged and picturesque landscapes of north-western Cyprus. This evocative region, marked by dramatic coastlines and charming villages, is abundant in culture, lush vineyards, and a unique character that seamlessly blends rustic charm with contemporary appeal.

A Scenic Journey

The Laona – Akamas Wine Route extends through several quaint villages, including:

  • Pafos (Paphos)
  • Mesogi
  • Tsada
  • Stroumbi
  • Kathikas
  • Akourdaleia
  • Pano Arodes
  • Kato Arodes
  • Ineia
  • Drouseia
  • Polis
  • Pegeia

As you traverse this route, you’ll be captivated by the stunning vistas and the lush vines that thrive in a climate tempered by the gentle sea breeze.

Indigenous Grapes and Exceptional Wines

The Laona – Akamas region is particularly renowned for its production of two distinctive grape varieties:

  1. Xynisteri (White Grape): This indigenous grape thrives in the region’s unique climate and is celebrated for producing cool, fresh white wines with a refined aroma. It is widely regarded as one of the best white wines on the island, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
  2. Maratheftiko (Red Grape): Known for its rarity and ancient lineage, Maratheftiko contributes to some of the finest red wines produced in Cyprus. This grape variety stands out for its rich flavors and complexity, offering wine lovers a truly unique tasting experience.

Along the route, you can visit four notable wineries, each showcasing their approach to winemaking and offering tastings of their exquisite products.

Delightful Experiences Beyond Wine

In addition to the delightful wines, the Laona – Akamas region boasts a wealth of experiences:

  • Traditional Taverns: Enjoy authentic Cypriot cuisine at local taverns that serve delicious traditional dishes, perfect for pairing with the regional wines.
  • Stunning Views: The area offers elevated viewpoints that present breathtaking panoramas of both the coastline and the surrounding countryside.
  • Akamas Peninsula: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the stunning Akamas Peninsula, a protected natural area famous for its biodiversity, nature trails, and breathtaking landscapes.

Conclusion

The Laona – Akamas Wine Route is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its captivating scenery, exceptional wines from indigenous grape varieties, and rich cultural experiences, this route promises an unforgettable exploration of Cyprus’s wine heritage. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful region, would you like recommendations for specific wineries to visit, dishes to try, or other attractions to explore along the way?

Discovering the Vouni Panagias – Ambelitis Wine Route

The Vouni Panagias – Ambelitis Wine Route offers an enchanting exploration of Cyprus’s inland landscapes, showcasing the island’s rich winemaking heritage. This picturesque route is set against the backdrop of the Pafos (Paphos) mountainous area, providing wine lovers with a unique experience at an elevation of 800 meters.

Route Overview

The Vouni Panagias – Ambelitis Wine Route includes several beautiful villages and offers two alternative endpoints, creating a flexible journey for visitors. Key stops along the route include:

  • Pafos (Paphos)
  • Mesogi
  • Tsada
  • Stroumbi
  • Polemi
  • Psathi
  • Kannaviou
  • Asprogia
  • Pano Panagia
  • Chrysorrogiatissa
  • Agia Moni
  • Statos-Agios Fotios
  • Koilineia
  • Galataria
  • Pentalia
  • Amargeti
  • Eledio
  • Agia Varvara
  • Acheleia or Choulou
  • Lemona
  • Kourdaka
  • Letymvou
  • Kallepeia

A Panoramic Journey

As you embark on this scenic route, you will not only savor exceptional wines but also experience the natural beauty of Cyprus. The route is adorned with fragrant pine forests and an array of unique flora and fauna, including mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and birds.

Diverse Wineries and Wine Varieties

The Vouni Panagias – Ambelitis route features 10 diverse wineries, showcasing the region’s commitment to quality winemaking. The area is known for producing:

  • White Wines: The predominant use of the local Xynisteri grape variety results in white wines characterized by their fine aroma and light body. These wines often feature delightful notes of green apple, peach, and apricot.
  • Red Wines: The ancient and rare Maratheftiko grape enriches the region’s red wines, providing complex flavors of red fruit, violets, and roses. Additionally, the higher elevation and mild climate favor the cultivation of the indigenous Mavro grape, known for producing excellent dark and rosé wines.
  • Other Grapes: The region also boasts an impressive variety of 27 grapevine types, including renowned varieties like Carignan Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon, illustrating the versatility and diversity of Cypriot winemaking.

Cultural and Culinary Delights

Beyond wine tasting, the villages along this route offer a wealth of cultural experiences and culinary delights. Local tavernas serve traditional Cypriot dishes that beautifully complement the region’s wines, providing visitors with an authentic taste of Cyprus.

Conclusion

The Vouni Panagias – Ambelitis Wine Route is a remarkable journey that showcases the natural beauty, diverse vineyards, and high-quality wines of Cyprus. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply seeking to explore the enchanting landscapes, this route promises unforgettable experiences and the opportunity to appreciate the rich tapestry of Cypriot winemaking. If you’re planning to visit, would you like detailed recommendations on specific wineries to stop at, dishes to try, or other attractions along the route?

A Warm Welcome to Sterna Winery

Join Us in the Heart of Kathikas

At Sterna Winery, we invite you to experience our warm hospitality and indulge your senses with our five exceptional wines and schnapps. Nestled in the tranquil vineyards of Kathikas, our winery offers a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscapes while savoring our products.

Our Tradition and Commitment

As a small, local winery, we take pride in our traditional roots while embracing the latest production methods to ensure the highest quality wines. The tradition of wine production in the Paphos region has deep historical roots, evident in the remarkable archaeological findings in the Roman mosaics of Kato Paphos. Here, Bacchus is depicted with a bunch of grapes in hand, celebrating the timeless connection between this glorious land and fine wine.

Sterna Winery has been crafting wine for generations, situated above ancient springs and a network of 31 caves dating back over 3000 years. One of these caves serves as our wine cellar, providing an exceptional environment for aging our wines.

Ideal Aging Conditions

The naturally dark environment of our cave cellar, combined with isothermic conditions maintained at a consistent 15-16°C, creates the perfect setting for our fine wines to mature. This meticulous care results in wines that reflect both the rich history of our land and the passion we pour into our production.

Visit Us

We welcome visitors seven days a week from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Whether you are a connoisseur or a casual wine enthusiast, our guided tastings will provide insight into our production techniques and the unique characteristics of our wines.

Find Us: Our wines are available in all good restaurants and supermarkets in Coral Bay, Paphos, and Polis, making it easy for you to take a piece of Sterna Winery home with you.

Conclusion

Embark on a delightful journey through the flavors of our land at Sterna Winery. Experience our exceptional wines and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Kathikas. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing our passion for winemaking with you. If you have any questions about our wines, tours, or special events, feel free to ask!

Welcome to Vasilikon Winery

A Legacy of Excellence in Cypriot Winemaking

Established in 1993 by brothers Heracles, Georgios, and Giannis Kyriakides, Vasilikon Winery stands as one of the pioneering local wineries in Cyprus. Our commitment to quality is evident through our carefully cultivated grapes sourced from the Kathikas and Akamas Laona areas of Pafos, primarily harvested from our family’s vineyards.

Quality Grapes and Advanced Techniques

At Vasilikon, our success is rooted in the exceptional quality of grapes grown at an altitude of 650-700 meters. The grape varieties we cultivate include:

  • Xynisteri
  • Lefkada
  • Morokanela
  • Maratheftiko
  • Yiannoudi
  • Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Syrah

The unique limestone (asbestolithic) and loamy gypsum soils provide a perfect environment for our vines, allowing them to thrive and express their best characteristics.

To uphold the highest standards of viticulture, we avoid herbicides in our vineyards, opting for light soil treatments instead. After pruning, we incorporate marc and pruning wood back into the soil to promote sustainability and enrich the ground with organic matter. This practice, coupled with our reliance on rainfall for irrigation, ensures our vineyards maintain their natural health and quality.

Experience Vasilikon

We invite you to visit Vasilikon Winery and immerse yourself in the stunning natural surroundings of our vineyards. Enjoy a chance to taste our unique wines, each reflecting the rich terroir and meticulous care that goes into every bottle.

Winery Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Conclusion

Discover the heart of Cypriot winemaking at Vasilikon Winery. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy the beauty of our landscape, a visit promises to be an enriching experience. For further information on our wines, tours, or any special events, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to welcoming you!

Restaurant opening hours: 10:00-16:00