Page 34 - TREASURES 2023

E X P L ORE
Wine WHETHER you're a wine enthusiast, a

connoisseur, or simply someone seeking a
Wanderlust delightful experience, the wine tradition of the
wider area of Paphos is destined to enchant you.
It will initiate you into the flavours and history
of Cypriot wines, through an immersive and
unforgettable journey. As you travel from one
Unveiling the secrets of the vine winery to another, relish the stunning landscapes

through a sensory exploration that surround Paphos. Marvel at the rolling
hills, verdant vineyards, and panoramic views of
that travels guests through history the Mediterranean Sea. Capture unforgettable

and the island's gastronomical moments amidst the natural beauty of this
region, creating lasting memories. Discover
traditions. the centuries-old tradition of winemaking in

this region through picturesque vineyards and
charming wine cellars. Prepare to tantalise your
taste buds and enrich your knowledge of Cyprus'
wine culture.
Cyprus has traded in wine from as early as 2300
BC and throughout the years, sherry became
the preferred tipple of the British, with Cyprus
in the 1960s supplying the UK with over 13.6
The ancient process of winemaking with million litres of Cyprus wines. Today there are
the indigenous grape varieties such as more than 25 registered wineries spread over
Xynisteri and Mavro, which are used for the island from Paphos up to the Troodos and
the vinification of Commandaria highlight
a tradition the island is proud of. beyond. Local varieties of grape are Xynisteri,

Maratheftiko and Mavro and these flourish that had therapeutic qualities; it was widely COMMANDARIA
alongside global varieties such as Chardonnay, used as a tonic.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. Not forgetting Begin your journey with a visit to the lush WAS THOUGHT
the 20.000 bottles produced annually of our vineyards of Paphos, where you'll witness the
exceedingly fortified "white lightning" liquid artistry of grape cultivation. Stroll among the TO BE A WINE
called zivania. Discover the fascinating history vines, breathe in the fresh Mediterranean air, and THAT HAD
and cultural significance of winemaking in learn about the unique grape varieties that thrive
Cyprus. Learn about the unique characteristics in this region. Step into the world of winemaking THERAPEUTIC
PHOTO: ANDRZEJ LISOWSKI TRAVEL/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM, ISTOCK BY GETTY IMAGES
of indigenous grape varieties. Gain insights into as we take you to renowned wineries in Paphos, QUALITIES,
the winemaking techniques that make Cypriot such as the Ezousa Winery, Kolios Winery
wines distinct. on the mountaintop of Paphos' mountains, THE "CYPRIOT
The amber-coloured sweet dessert wine Tsangarides Winery and the Vasilikon Winery with
commandaria is the world’s oldest wine still in breathtaking views of the rural area. NAMA".
production. Commandaria has been made in Learn about the winemaking process, from grape
the same way for centuries, and from grapes selection to fermentation and aging. Engage
grown in the same fourteen wine-growing with passionate winemakers who will share their
villages. The indigenous grape varieties of expertise and answer your questions. Indulge in
Mavro (red) and Xynisteri (white) are picked guided tastings of a diverse selection of wines,
late in the season and dried in the sun to including indigenous Cypriot varieties and
enhance their sugar content, giving the wine international blends. Experience the pleasures of
its distinctive taste. The dried grapes are then wine and food pairing as expert sommeliers guide
pressed, and the run-off liquid is collected you through a culinary journey. Sample traditional
and fermented in tanks or huge earthenware Cypriot dishes perfectly matched with exquisite
jars – much like those used in bygone times. wines, allowing you to savour the intricate flavours
Commandaria dates back to 800 BC, when the that complement each other.
Greek poet Hesiod referenced a wine made The wine tours and wine tasting events offer
f rom dried grapes known then as "Cypriot visitors a great day out with free sampling always
nama". Commandaria was thought to be a wine on offer.

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