Cypriot winemaking originated more than six thousand years ago, but in the list of the most consumed wines in the world, the country occupies only a modest 37th place. In terms of taste and bouquet, Cypriot wines are similar to brands from the New World (the same fragrant and sweet), and for the production they use mainly autochthonous grapes (grows only on the island): in particular, the Mavro, Oftalmo, Marateftiko and Xynisteri varieties.
History
In the XXIII century BC. a ship was wrecked, transporting more than 2500 amphoras with wine to Egypt – which means that at that time winemaking had already developed so much that it entered the phase of international trade. Archaeological excavations show that wine was made in this region at least 5,5 thousand years ago – and most likely even earlier.
In the XNUMXth century, the first wine competition in history was held in France, the first place in which was taken by the Cypriot Commandaria, a dessert wine that still exists today. At the end of the XNUMXth century, Cyprus became part of the Ottoman Empire, after which winemaking on the island fell into decline due to high taxes and the general negative attitude of Islam towards alcoholic beverages.
In 1878, Cyprus was ceded to the British Empire, this was the beginning of the revival of winemaking. The phylloxera epidemic that struck European vineyards at the end of the 1960th century was a blessing for the Cypriots: their wines entered the international arena and gained worldwide recognition. By the XNUMXs, more than half of local production was exported (mainly to England and the Soviet bloc). Europeans especially respected Cypriot sherry (fortified wine) – a successful combination of affordable price and high quality.
Since 1980, the Cypriot government has taken a course to improve the quality of local wine. This led to three major reforms:
- New grape varieties began to be used: Cabernet Sauvignon, Palomino, Cabernet Franc, etc.
- Additional funding has been allocated for small local productions so that the harvested berries do not have to be transported to large wineries. The grapes on the way invariably withered, which reduced the quality.
- In 2007 (after joining the EU), an appellation system was introduced (wine is controlled on a regional basis).
Today, winemaking is one of the main areas of the island’s economy: it is a source of jobs for the population and an income source for the budget. Cyprus is especially famous for its fortified wines, but all varieties are popular: white, red, pink, sweet, dry…
Types of Cypriot wines
- Canteens. Young wines up to 12% alcohol.
- Local. At least 85% consist of grapes harvested in a certain region (Lefkosia, Lemesos, Larnaca or Paphos), undergo four years of aging and contain from 10% alcohol.
- O.E.O.P. (names protected by origin). The highest quality products, produced on registered appellations, undergo a five-year exposure. This category includes 4 regions: Akamas Laona, Vouni Panayias – Ambelitis, Pitsilia, Limassol.
The best wines of Cyprus
Big four. This is the name of the four largest manufacturers: ETKO, LOEL, KEO and SODAP. All production facilities are located in the port of Limassol.
For less than 6 euros, you can buy Aphrodite from KEO or Ayios Onoufrios, made from the local Xynisteri grape. Kyperounda Shiraz or Tsiakkas Chardonnay cost slightly more, and the famous sweet Commandaria is considered the clear winner in all possible categories.
Petritis dry white wines are made from local Xynisteri grapes and aged in oak barrels for at least six months. Sommeliers note tones of citruses, white fruits, vanilla.
White semi-sweet Saint Panteleimon has a light floral bouquet, goes well with cheeses, desserts, fruits.
Dry red wine Agios Ilias is made by blending three varieties: Cabernet, Grenache and Marateftiko. This brand is considered one of the hallmarks of the island and goes well with local cuisine. Also among dry reds, it is worth noting Maratheftiko Kolios: an elite wine that is almost impossible to find outside of Cyprus – the annual production does not exceed 2000 bottles. Rich taste contains tones of truffle, oak, spices, berries.
Rose wine Shiraz Tsangarides is the quintessence of flavors and aromas of Cyprus. The nuances of red berries and roses are felt in the bouquet, and due to the increased acidity, the drink seems “effervescent”, actually referring to the category of “still” wines.
The line of sparkling wines (similar to champagne) is represented by the Bellapais brand, named after the ancient monastery.
Dessert Commandaria is the recognized king of Cypriot winemaking. Thick red wine has long become a local legend: the drink was sung by Pliny the Elder and Seneca, Hesiod and Stasinos, although the brand became known outside the country only in 1192, when the Templars came to the island. Over the past centuries and millennia, the manufacturing process of Commandaria has remained unchanged: the ripest Xynisteri and Mavro berries are carefully harvested and left to dry in the sun for 5-10 days, so that the heat evaporates all moisture from the grapes, leaving sugar. The finished wine is aged in oak barrels for at least two years, as a result, the drink acquires aromas of jam, raisins, honey, nuts, dried fruits.
Wine regions of Cyprus
Pathos. There are 15 distilleries on this territory, including the famous monastery of Chrysoroyatissa, specializing in Commandaria.
Limassol. One of the main wine-growing regions, the Big Four enterprises are located here, as well as many small “home” distilleries.
Larnaca and Nicosia. It boasts only four productions, but local wines are distinguished by their exquisite taste and excellent quality.
Akamas-Laona. Northwest coast of the island, including 6 villages.
Vouni Panayias — Ambelitis. Western “highland” region – the vineyards are located at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level.
Pitsilia. A large region on the slopes of the Troodos, covers an area of 61 thousand hectares.
Tips
- Despite the fact that most local varieties are exported, they are not subject to duties and foreign taxes in their homeland, so they cost almost half as much.
- Tourists can visit the Cyprus Wine Festival, which runs from August 27 to September 8. There are products of all local productions, and at the moment it is about 50 distilleries.
- Be sure to try Commandaria – this is not just a thick and sweet dessert wine, the brand is considered the oldest of all existing ones.