Friday, 4 May 2012

Discover the Cyprus wineries

By Catherine McCulloch


There have been references to the wines produced in the Mediterranean island of Cyprus throughout the ages, thanks to the unique characteristics of the vines and the terroir within which they grow. However, this winemaking tradition began to dwindle until relatively recently, when a number of winemakers were determined to put Cyprus holidays back on the international winemaking map for tourists.

One such winery is one of the prettiest wineries in the region is the Tsangarides Winery, located in the heart of Cyprus's wine region at the foot of the Troodos Mountains. Blending "old-school tradition with new-school style" is how siblings Loukia and Angelos Tsangarides describe their philosophy and who continue to cultivate the land of their great-great-grandfather in the Lemona valley. With a big focus on site selection and planting compatible varietals, the winery produces full-bodied reds and fresh white wines, as well as a ros, using traditional winemaking techniques. The beautiful surroundings make a visit here a treat, so holidays in Cyprus are the perfect opportunity to learn more about the winemaking process and to sample some of the labels. Hosting events such as weddings and birthdays, one unique concept is 'Adopt a Vine', where visitors can have their own vine, pick the grapes and finally drink their own special produce.

Also opening its doors to visitors is Tsiakkas Winery in Pelendri, one of the mountain villages in the Pitsilia region that's famous for its grapevines. First cultivated in the early 20th century by Nicolas Tsiakkas, his grandchildren have carried on the family tradition and continue to produce high quality wines. The winery currently produces eight different labels using both indigenous and international varieties, grown under the warm Mediterranean sun and cooled by the breezes coming in from the Troodos Mountains. Built in traditional Cypriot architecture, the Tsiakkas Winery boasts a well-organised wine cellar, which is open to visitors for tours and of course wine-tasting on your holidays in Cyprus.

Open every day from 10am to 5pm, Vouni Panayia near Panayia Village offers wine tours and tastings of its seven labels, made with traditional grapes such as Xinisteri (for the whites) and Maratheftko and Mavro (for the reds). Using the least amount of chemicals as possible, the producers here believe in an organic approach to winemaking and even have their own organic vegetable garden on site. And with thousands of fir trees planted all over the hills providing welcome fresh air, reaching the winery itself is no less appealing. In fact, stunning surroundings and beautiful countryside are what holidays in Cyprus are made of.

In the belief of rediscovering Cyprus's ancient varieties, such as the Lefkada grape and of course the popular Maratheftko varietal, Zambartas' wines have garnered various awards since its inception. Catering for groups of up to 30 people and able to organise wine and gourmet food evenings, the winemakers also take visitors on a comprehensive tour through this boutique winery, allowing you to have a posh day out on your cheap holidays.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment