Wine & Beverages
Commandaria—The Oldest Wine in the World
Commandaria is the oldest named wine in the world—produced under the same name for at least 800 years. The sweet dessert wine is made from sun-dried Xynisteri and Mavro grapes, grown in 14 villages in the Troodos foothills (protected designation of origin).
The history dates back to the Crusaders: the Knights Hospitaller called their headquarters "Commanderie"—hence the name. Richard the Lionheart is said to have praised it at his wedding in Limassol (1191) as "the wine of kings and the king of wines."
Taste: amber-colored, honey-sweet, with notes of caramel, raisins, nuts, and spices. Best served slightly chilled with dessert or with aged halloumi.
Cypriot Wines
Cyprus has a 5,000-year-old wine culture and cultivates about 8,000 hectares of vines—mainly in the Troodos Mountains. The indigenous grape varieties are unique:
- Xynisteri (white): The main variety of Cyprus—fresh, mineral, lemony. Best served unchilled as an aperitif.
- Maratheftiko (red): The star red wine variety—strong, dark, with notes of dark fruits and spices. Often blended with Cabernet or Syrah.
- Mavro (red): The common everyday variety—lighter, fruitier, the base for Commandaria.
- Promara (white): Rare, aromatic, with floral notes. Newly discovered and vinified in small quantities.
Other Beverages
- Zivania: The Cypriot pomace brandy (45–49% alcohol). Served ice-cold, best with meze. Some villages still produce it illegally at home.
- KEO Beer: The national beer of Cyprus—a light, drinkable lager, perfect at 40°C. Carlsberg is also brewed in Cyprus.
- Ayran: Salty yogurt drink—ubiquitous in the north, refreshing on hot days.
- Cypriot Coffee: Heated in a briki/cezve on sand, served in a small cup. Sketo (without sugar), Metrio (medium), Glyko (sweet).
- Fresh Juices: Pomegranate, orange, watermelon—freshly pressed at every kiosk.
