A Guide to Wine Tasting in Cyprus

Are you able to go wine tasting in Cyprus? Though Cyprus’ winemaking is rooted deep in historical past, you shouldn’t count on something supernatural from tasting the native wines.

Many of the wines you get to style are younger, dry wines. The local weather and lack of water give native wines a slight acidity. Cyprus has only a few candy wines and virtually no fortified wines, besides the world-famous dessert wine, Commandaria.

Right here’s our information to wine tasting in Cyprus!

Right here’s a fast breakdown:

Historical past of Winemaking in Cyprus

The entire historical past of winemaking may be divided into three phases:

Stage 1: Spontaneous Unique Winemaking

Wines have been saved and transported in clay vessels. This gave the wines a particular taste.

The vessels’ partitions, fabricated from clay, interacted with the contents. The clay additionally has a porous construction and is a form of membrane. Thus, the wine was respiratory. This, on the one hand, had a optimistic impact on the flavour, however however, significantly lowered the shelf life.

Stage 2: Look of Glass Bottles and the Expertise of Wine Manufacturing on a Massive Scale

This stage has not misplaced its relevance even now.

Nonetheless, the character of island life didn’t permit native winemakers to comply with the expertise of wine manufacturing completely. Subsequently, the wines diverse significantly in taste and composition even throughout the similar batch.

As well as, after all, the grape harvest made its changes. However this can be a common rule that applies to completely all wineries on the planet.

Stage 3: Management and Measurement of Chemical and Bodily Traits of Wine and Uncooked Supplies

The third stage started comparatively just lately, with the looks of exact technique of management and measurement of chemical and bodily traits of wine and uncooked supplies, in addition to computerized automation of the method.

Solely then do sure stability of wine varieties, their taste and bodily traits seem.

Wine Storage in Cyprus

Let’s discuss wine barrels for getting older and storing, in addition to corks. The distinctive state of affairs in Cyprus is that there are not any domestically produced corks or barrels; every thing is imported, and it comes at a price. Moreover, bottles should not manufactured in Cyprus.

However Let’s Begin With Corks

Historically, bottles are sealed with pure cork, which comes from the bark of the cork oak tree. Like a clay vessel, cork has pores, permitting air to enter the bottle and the wine to “breathe.” Nonetheless, the cork’s floor space is far smaller than a clay vessel’s, leading to a considerably longer shelf life.

Portugal and Spain are the first sources of pure cork manufacturing.

Aluminium Cap

Lately, a extremely commendable different has emerged—the screw aluminum cap. It really works nicely for each inexpensive and premium wines, providing a extra handy and sensible opening expertise. Nonetheless, not like conventional cork, the wine doesn’t “breathe” with this cover. But, when correct corking strategies are adopted, it ensures the longest shelf life.

An alternative choice is polymer corks, usually present in inexpensive wines. Regardless of being technologically superior and appropriate for mass manufacturing, they’re generally related to budget-friendly wine choices.

Barrels

By inspecting the barrels a vineyard employs, you’ll be able to swiftly gauge the standard of the wine it creates. The kind of barrel used performs a big function.

Normally, wineries go for oak barrels from France, often incorporating American oak. Whereas there are improvements, comparable to the usage of Acacia wooden, it takes braveness to experiment with new choices with out risking a batch of 10-30 thousand bottles.

Now, Let’s Discuss About Cypress Wine

Wine is an alcoholic beverage produced by the fermentation of grape juice. The colour of wine doesn’t depend upon the colour of the grapes, because the juice of any grape is white. Nonetheless, the pores and skin of the grapes provides a pink or purple hue throughout fermentation.

The principle traits of wine embody its sort, which could possibly be white, purple, rose, or glowing. All these varieties are produced in Cyprus, however glowing wine is produced to a lesser extent.

Completely different grape varieties have completely different flavour traits. The principle grape varieties grown in Cyprus are:

• Xinisteri
• Muscat
• Sauvignon Blanc
• Chardonnay
• Moracanella
• Promara
• Mavro
• Carignan
• Maratheftiko
• Yannoudi
• Lefkada
• Mataro
• Mourvèdre
• Oftalmo
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Malaga
• Shiraz
• Grenache
• Alicante Bouchet

Cyprus primarily produces dry wines, spanning from gentle yellow to intense purple. The wines function a various bouquet of mild aromas and flavors, devoid of daring spices.

The alcohol and acidity ranges within the wine can differ. In purple wine, tannins play a task in offering construction and firmness, enhancing its potential to age gracefully.

Wine Areas in Cyprus

The area and origin are essential elements that decide a wine’s traits.

Cyprus has six wine areas the place wines differ in flavour and different traits, with probably the most well-known area being Commandaria, situated north of Limassol city within the south downhills of the Troodos mountains.

The Label of Wine Bottles

Now, let’s transfer on to the integral a part of any wine bottle: the label.

The label is a vital a part of the looks and content material of the wine. Judging by the label, you’ll be able to perceive lots concerning the wine with out even opening the bottle.

So, what’s often depicted on a wine label? Normally, there are two. Some bottles even have a small half on the neck – the so-called collar label – however it isn’t very informative. An important labels are the predominant label and the again label.

On the label, you’ll find the next info:

1. The title of the wine and generally the second title
2. The title of the producer (vineyard)
3. Grape selection, a number of
4. Share of alcohol content material
5. 12 months the grapes have been harvested (classic)
6. Area (Appellation)
7. Sort of wine (dry, purple, desk, and so forth.)
8. Internet content material
9. Further info (pairing ideas, flavour notes, serving)
10. Warnings (concerning the risks of alcohol)

The principle factor to know when you’re not a real wine connoisseur is a straightforward rule: a wine that has already earned belief and fame doesn’t want a flashy and colourful label. It’s wanted for wines nonetheless on their solution to the head of their fame, however this rule doesn’t all the time work in Cyprus. Right here, it will be finest when you have been guided extra by suggestions.

Judging by the label, you’ll be able to solely get a common concept of the product contained in the bottle, however a mix of things (cork, coloration, bottle and label) can counsel a worthy specimen.

When you encounter any difficulties, it’s finest to hunt professional assist.

Wineries in Cyprus

Now, let’s discuss a little bit about wineries. Some trendy wineries assure constant high quality, together with:

Zambartas Wineries, Tsangarides Vineyard, Vlassides Vineyard and others.

Alternatively, some wineries take a extra conventional strategy, together with:

Kalamos Vineyard, Linos Vineyard, Ktima Gerolemo, Shoufas Vineyard, Ayia Mavri and others.

The selection is in the end yours… otherwise you select an professional to information you:

Wine Tour in Cyprus

Discover the enchanting world of Cypriot wines and be part of an exclusive small-group wine tour assured to captivate.

Immerse your self within the Pafos area, the place you’ll embark on a outstanding journey. For wine fans and connoisseurs alike, the spotlight lies within the intimate wineries specializing in producing distinctive varietal and blended wines.

Cyprus is residence to roughly 20 such wineries, producing a modest amount of between 10 and 100 thousand bottles yearly. This restricted manufacturing provides worth and rarity to those extraordinary creations.

At every vineyard, you’ll witness firsthand the meticulous winemaking course of earlier than indulging in pleasant tastings.

The primary cease is the village of Katikas, the place you’ll stroll by way of picturesque vineyards and go to Vassilikon Vineyard – one of many oldest in Paphos, overlaying some 4000m2. Right here you’ll discover not solely the manufacturing space, but in addition cellars, a bar and even a captivating wine museum that tells the story of Cyprus’ wealthy viticultural historical past. Vassilikon’s annual bottling capability is a formidable 350,000 bottles.

Persevering with your journey brings you to the village of Lemony, the place the Tsangaridis household vineyard is tucked away amidst sprawling vineyards and charming rustic buildings, seamlessly mixing time-honored traditions with trendy expertise.

Your subsequent vacation spot takes you to the village of Strumbi as you enterprise to the Kamanterena Vineyard – a part of the famend SODAP cooperative since its founding in 1947. In collaboration with greater than ten thousand households from numerous vineyards (144), Kamanterena has persistently participated in prestigious worldwide wine festivals, successful quite a few awards alongside the best way.

In your grand finale, Vuni Vineyard, established in 1987, provides an intensive number of advantageous wines in addition to its personal museum and restaurant. After tasting, you’ll have the chance to get pleasure from a scrumptious lunch at this magnificent vineyard.

After experiencing the attraction of Cypriot wines firsthand, it’s solely pure that you simply’ll need to take residence a bottle as a memento. The style of Cyprus will soothe your soul each time you open that treasured bottle and convey again recollections of your fantastic days on this idyllic Mediterranean island.

Book your tour directly with the tour operator

Price: €95
Period: 8 hours
Group dimension: max 20

This complete wine tour package deal consists of:

• Handy lodge pick-up and drop-off
• Comfy transportation in an air-conditioned motor coach
• Memorable wine tastings

Wine Tasting in Cyprus

Cyprus is a land of historic legends and traditions, from its structure to its delicacies, which makes it no shock that the nation has a wealthy wine tradition. The island consists of conventional and trendy wineries, producing distinct sorts of wines that mirror the distinctive terroir of the Mediterranean island.

For these trying to take pleasure in a wine-tasting expertise in Cyprus, there are a couple of important tricks to bear in mind:

• Firstly, analysis the wineries beforehand, as there are lots of to select from, every providing a novel expertise.
• Secondly, gown appropriately, as wineries are typically pretty informal.
• As soon as there, don’t hesitate to ask questions and work together with the workers; most are prepared to share their information and experience.
• Concerning the wine itself, it’s important to be affected person and let it breathe earlier than tasting it, making certain it’s on the proper temperature.
• Wine tasting is about exploring every wine by way of your senses: sight, odor, contact, and style.
• Lastly, keep away from overindulging to understand and bear in mind the expertise totally.

In conclusion, the wine-tasting expertise in Cyprus will not be one to be missed. Immerse your self within the distinctive tradition and custom of the island, and uncover the richness and variety of Cyprus’s wine business.

When you’re visiting Cyprus, it is best to think about attempting some locally-produced wines. Cyprus is residence to varied wineries, lots of which supply wine-tasting experiences. When you’re new to wine tasting, don’t fear!

Associated learn: What to Do in Cyprus

Right here Are Some Suggestions for a Profitable Wine Tasting in Cyprus

1. Select your wineries fastidiously. Lookup evaluations and suggestions on-line earlier than choosing which wineries to go to.
2. Don’t overdo it. Don’t try to go to too many wineries in someday. Keep in mind, wine tasting is about high quality, not amount.
3. Take notes. Jot down your ideas and impressions about every wine you style. It will enable you to bear in mind which of them have been your favorites. Use this free wine-tasting sheet (sample).
4. Have interaction with the workers. The individuals who work on the wineries are sometimes extraordinarily educated about wine. Don’t hesitate to ask them questions or ask for his or her suggestions.
5. Benefit from the expertise. Wine tasting needs to be a enjoyable and relaxed exercise. Savor every wine and the expertise of discovering one thing new.

Our Advice: Be part of a Cyprus Wine Tour

Don’t overlook the professionals. We need to recommend one of the wine tours in Cyprus. The wineries you’ll go to are situated in picturesque areas with beautiful views of orchards and Mediterranean landscapes. Right here, you’ll be able to style nice wines and study Cyprus’s numerous wine types.

The information will enthuse you along with his intensive information of wine. From wealthy blends to beautiful particulars, he’ll information you alongside a path of discovery and delight.

All in all, wine tasting in Cyprus is a must-do expertise for any wine lover. Observe the following tips, and you’ll certainly get pleasure from exploring Cyprus’ native wines’ distinctive flavors and aromas.

For extra issues to do in Cyprus, try: