Why Cyprus's Native Grapes Matter More Than EverThe Heroic Rediscovery of Lost VarietiesThe Major White Varie
Mystes winery represents a fresh chapter in Cyprus’s wine heritage, a newly established boutique family winery located in Pano Archimandrita village in the Paphos district. Situated at 550 meters altitude in the heart of Cyprus’s premier wine-producing region, approximately 33 kilometers east of Paphos, Mystes embodies the next generation of Cypriot winemaking. Founded by owner and winemaker Loucas Papaloucas, who follows in his family’s footsteps with a rich history of grape growing and winemaking, the winery is dedicated to producing wines of the highest caliber and distinction. Papaloucas brings extensive winemaking experience to the venture, having spent formative years at Kamanterena Winery before establishing Mystes as his own contemporary expression of Cypriot winemaking. The winery’s philosophy centers on organic cultivation and sustainable, quality-focused production that expresses the unique terroir of the property. Mystes works with both indigenous Cypriot varieties such as Spourtiko and Morokanella, as well as carefully selected international varieties like Chardonnay and Syrah. This balanced approach reflects the modern direction of Cyprus’s wine industry, which is increasingly gaining recognition and accolades in prestigious international wine competitions. Visitors to Mystes can experience the winery firsthand through guided tours of the modern family facility, learning about organic viticulture principles and […]
Pano Archimandrita, Paphos, Cyprus, 8603
Oenou Yi Winery is amphitheatrically nestled between the mountain peaks of Troodos, facing the magnificent Mount Olympus. A contemporary winery that honors the long wine tradition of Omodos while combining advanced technology and practices for exceptional quality wines.
Demetri Liperti Street, 4760 Omodos, Limassol, Cyprus
About Sterna Winery & Wine Museum Tucked away in the hillside village of Kathikas, Sterna Winery is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled onto something special. The real showstopper here? An ancient cave cellar that’s been storing wine since Hellenistic times (we’re talking 2,000+ years ago). The natural cool temperatures down there are perfect for aging wine, and honestly, just walking through it feels like stepping back in time. The Ancient Cave Cellar The cave is the part everyone remembers. Carved into the hillside and used for storing wine since Hellenistic times, it stays naturally cool year-round with no need for modern climate control. That steady temperature is exactly what wine wants for slow, gentle aging, and the people of Kathikas worked this out more than two thousand years ago. Walking down into it, with the stone walls and the rows of resting bottles, you get a real sense of just how far back winemaking goes in this corner of Cyprus. It’s not a museum piece either. The cave is still doing the job it was built for. The Wines at Sterna The winery sits right in the heart of Kathikas’ vineyards, and they grow […]
Sternas 50, Kathikas Village, 8573 Paphos
The Chrysoroyiatissa Winery is a historic wine producer located in the picturesque Panayia village of Paphos, Cyprus, nestled within the grounds of the Chrysoroyiatissas monastery. The winery’s name derives from ‘Our Lady of the Golden Pomegranate,’ reflecting its deep religious and cultural roots. With a winemaking tradition dating back to 1725, the winery originally operated from the underground cellars of the monastery using traditional clay jars. After reopening in 1984, the winery has successfully blended its centuries-old heritage with modern winemaking technology, establishing new facilities directly in the monastery’s vineyards. Chrysoroyiatissa specializes in indigenous Cypriot grape varieties, showcasing the unique terroir of the region. Their portfolio focuses on local varietals including Xynistery, a renowned white wine grape; Maratheftiko, which produces top-quality red wines; and Local Mavro, alongside international varieties like Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery’s commitment to preserving traditional Cypriot winemaking while embracing contemporary techniques makes it a distinctive destination for wine enthusiasts seeking authentic Cypriot wines. Visitors can experience this unique blend of history and innovation at the monastery location, where the spiritual atmosphere complements the wine-tasting experience.
Holy Monastery of Chrysoroyiatissa, Panayia 8649 Paphos, CYPRUS
Makarounas Boutique Winery is a warm, family-run winery rooted in four generations of vine growing in Letymvou, Paphos. Their vineyards sit at roughly 400–600 m elevation on gypsum, limestone and quartz-rich soils, and the team places strict emphasis on vineyard control and ungrafted plantings to showcase local site character. Expect wines made primarily from Cypriot varieties such as Xynisteri, Maratheftiko, Yiannoudi and Spourtiko, with a modest annual output (around 50,000 bottles) that keeps quality and personality front and center. Tastings are offered in a small, friendly cellar setting and can be paired with simple local fare; they also run guided vineyard visits and an off-road tour for a closer look at the vines and terroir. Their core labels include Aerides, En Arhi, Minthy and Maratheftiko among others, and you’ll find both varietal and amphora or oak-aged expressions in the range. Book ahead to ensure a tasting slot; practical contact details are below.
Agiou Nikolaou 13 , Letymbou, Paphos 8546, Cyprus
Nestled in the picturesque village of Pelendri in Cyprus’s Limassol district, Tsiakkas Winery stands as a landmark destination that harmoniously blends deep-rooted family tradition with innovative winemaking practices. Established on the principles of Family, History, Terroir, and Innovation, the winery is both a esteemed wine producer and a cherished attraction for wine enthusiasts and explorers alike. The Tsiakkas family’s commitment to their heritage is evident in their meticulous cultivation of vineyards that span remarkable altitudes, reaching up to 1,440 meters at sites like Petralona and featuring ancient vines, such as those over 80 years old at Mouklos (920m). These high-altitude vineyards, among the highest in Europe, are instrumental in crafting wines with distinctive character, reflecting the unique terroir of the region. The winery’s portfolio is thoughtfully organized into four distinct collections, showcasing a diverse range of 18 innovative labels. The Familiar collection highlights beloved local varieties like Xynisteri, Rodinos, and Porfyros, while the Autochthon collection is dedicated to rare indigenous grapes such as Promara, Mouklos, Vamvakada, and Yiannoudin, preserving Cyprus’s rich viticultural heritage. The Noble collection features international classics including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, demonstrating the winery’s versatility and global perspective. Additionally, the Ambassadors collection includes prestigious […]
Pelendri 4878 Limassol, Cyprus
Evangelou Winery is located in the village of Agios Konstantinos in Cyprus. The winery positions itself at the intersection where the centuries-old tradition of Commandaria wine production meets the future of winemaking. Commandaria is a historic sweet dessert wine that originates from Cyprus, and Evangelou Winery is deeply rooted in this heritage, aiming to preserve and promote this traditional wine while also embracing modern techniques to enhance quality and sustainability. The winery’s website emphasizes a commitment to both tradition and innovation, suggesting a balanced approach to viticulture and winemaking that respects historical methods while incorporating contemporary advancements. The winery offers a range of products, with a clear focus on Commandaria wines, as indicated by its alternative name and website content. Evangelou Winery likely produces other wine varieties as well, but its identity is strongly tied to the production of Commandaria, which is made from sun-dried grapes and has a protected designation of origin (PDO) status in Cyprus. The winery may also engage in precision viticulture, as suggested by a dedicated section on its website, indicating a data-driven and meticulous approach to vineyard management to optimize grape quality and environmental sustainability. Visitors to the winery can probably explore both the traditional […]
Agios Constantinos, Limassol Cyprus
Discover Plato’s Bar, an iconic establishment that has been a cornerstone of Nicosia’s nightlife for over 30 years. Located at 8 Platonos Street in the heart of Old Nicosia, just steps from the bustling Ledra Street and charming Laiki Yitonia, this legendary Cyprus wine bar and pub offers an authentic experience that seamlessly blends tradition with a vibrant social atmosphere. The bar’s entrance, marked by a subtle dimly-lit sign, opens into a warm, cozy space that has become a beloved gathering spot for both locals and travelers exploring Cyprus wineries and bars. Plato’s Bar stands out among Nicosia wine bars with its impressive collection of over 150 beers and ciders from around the world, complemented by an extraordinary selection of 300 whiskey varieties, including rare single malts. The knowledgeable bartenders take pride in serving each beverage according to its traditional method, exemplified by the Belgian beer Kwak served in its distinctive round-based glass. The bar’s unique character is enhanced by vintage beer memorabilia, antique pistols adorning the walls, and a custom wooden perch displaying broken glasses from patrons past—a quirky tradition that adds to the bar’s legendary charm. Beyond its exceptional drink selection, this Cyprus wine bar destination offers classic […]
8 Platonos Street, Old Nicosia, 1011
Ayia Mavri Winery is a family-owned boutique winery located in the picturesque village of Koilani, nestled in the heart of Cyprus’s renowned wine region, the “Krasochoria.” The winery’s roots run deep, continuing a multigenerational tradition of viticulture and winemaking that dates back to the ancestors of the current owners. Historically, the family cultivated vineyards and produced wine and Zivania (a traditional Cypriot pomace brandy) using traditional methods, including clay jars (pytharia) and a home distillery (kazani) to make Radgi (Zivania). Today, Ayia Mavri honors this rich heritage while embracing modern technology and expertise, striving for excellence in every bottle produced. The winery offers a diverse portfolio of wines that showcases both indigenous Cypriot grape varieties and international classics. Their white wines include the popular Xynisteri, a dry white that is a staple of Cypriot winemaking, along with aromatic options like Thymises (Thyme) and Moschatos (Muscat). The red wine range features Lefkada, a local variety, as well as Shiraz and other blends, while their rosé offerings include dry and Muscat-based styles. Notably, Ayia Mavri also produces Commandaria, Cyprus’s legendary sweet dessert wine with a protected designation of origin (PDO), reflecting the winery’s dedication to preserving the island’s unique vinicultural traditions. Committed […]
8 Archimandriti Kyprianou, E803 8, Koilani 4776, Cyprus
Vasilikon Winery, established in 1993 by the Kyriakides brothers, is one of the pioneering local wineries in Cyprus, located in the village of Kathikas within the Akamas Laona region. The winery is committed to producing estate-grown wines of the highest caliber, owning 16 hectares of vineyards and producing approximately 350,000 bottles annually. Since its foundation, Vasilikon has evolved significantly, constructing a state-of-the-art winery in 2010 and collaborating with oenologist Aphrodite Constanti in 2011 to enhance its winemaking expertise. Over the years, the winery has introduced several notable wines, including its first Cabernet Sauvignon “Methy” in 1999 and the single-variety Maratheftiko “Aeon” in 2015, while achieving recognition such as PDO Laona Akamas status for its Xynisteri in 2016. Situated at elevations ranging from 400 to 650 meters, the vineyards benefit from a mild climate tempered by sea breezes and an annual rainfall of about 610mm, creating ideal conditions for viticulture. The soils, primarily limestone (asbestolithic) with some loamy-gypsum areas, contribute to the distinctive character of the wines, often exhibiting a saline note influenced by the sea, altitude, and soil composition. The Kathikas area is renowned for its white grape varieties, particularly the indigenous Xynisteri, along with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Muscat, […]
Kathikas, 8573 Paphos, Paphos, Cyprus
If you’ve ever wondered what a century of family winemaking tastes like, Krasopoulin Winery in Xyliatos might just give you the answer. Tucked into the Nicosia mountains at nearly 1,500 meters above sea level, this small boutique producer is turning a multi-generational farming story into award-winning wine, without losing any of the soul along the way. The Story Behind the Winery The vineyards have been in the family since the early 1900s, first cultivated by the owners’ great-great-grandparents. By 1950, their grandparents had taken over the land. Owner Costas Elysseou and his family stepped in around 2016 to support their grandparents, produced their first trial bottle late that year, and formally founded the winery in 2017. A rebrand followed in 2018, bringing the now-recognisable illustrated bottle labels by artist @skelly.draws. The Vineyards The vineyards sit at 1,000 to 1,400 meters altitude on the slopes of Madari, the second highest peak in Cyprus, spanning both the Nicosia and Limassol districts. That puts them among the highest altitude vineyards on the entire island. The cool temperatures, long growing season, and mountain terrain give the wines their natural acidity and mineral character. The winery works exclusively with two indigenous Cypriot varieties: Mavro Ambelisimo […]
Evagora Pallikaridi, Xyliatos, 2781
Symeon Winery, Odou: A New Voice in Cyprus Mountain Wine Your next great Cyprus wine might come from a village most people have never heard of. Symeon Winery sits in Odou, high in the mountainous Larnaca district, and it’s one of the most exciting new projects to emerge on the island in recent years. Founded in 2023 by Nicosia dentist Symeon Symeou, it’s small, currently producing around 15,000 bottles, but the team is ambitious and the wines are already turning heads. Quick Facts Details Location Odou village, mountainous Larnaca district Founded 2023, by Symeon Symeou Team Symeon Symeou, Evangelos Bakalexis, Sotiris Pavlis; consultant winemaker Spyros Zoumboulis Annual production ~15,000 bottles Grapes Xynisteri, Maratheftiko, Mavro, Cabernet Sauvignon The Winery and the Team The winery is compact and mostly built underground, which keeps it naturally cool and energy efficient. Symeon and his team, Evangelos Bakalexis and Sotiris Pavlis, work with consultant winemaker Spyros Zoumboulis to craft wines with minimal intervention, using a mix of concrete tanks, egg-shaped fermenters, and oak barrels of various sizes. Fruit comes from two main sources: local vineyards in Odou and Farmakas, and the well-regarded Vouni Panayias area in Paphos. The focus is firmly on indigenous […]
Odou Village, Larnaca
Ethos Vin Soirée is a contemporary wine bar and dining room in the heart of Paphos Old Town, opened in 2025 and already one of the most talked-about wine destinations in Cyprus. It is set inside a beautifully restored stone building on Kosta Karnavalou Street, where high ceilings, natural materials of stone and wood, an imposing central bar and dramatic floor-to-ceiling curtains create a warm, almost theatrical setting. A glass door at the back opens onto a small courtyard garden framed by ancient olive trees, lit beautifully after dark and heated on cooler evenings. Wine is the centre of the experience. The list runs to around 250 labels, with a clear focus on Cypriot vineyards and indigenous grape varieties such as Xynisteri, Promara, Maratheftiko and Mavro, alongside carefully chosen French, Italian and international wines and a strong Champagne and sparkling selection. The by-the-glass programme is among the most ambitious on the island, with more than 40 pours including premium bottles served by Coravin, plus a curated range of organic, biodynamic, orange and natural wines. Head Sommelier Genadi Stefanov, supported by consultant sommeliers Iraklis Christoforou and George Kassianos, President of the Cyprus Sommelier Association, is on hand to guide every visit. […]
Κώστα Καρνάβαλου 16, Paphos 8010, Cyprus
Agios Serafim Solia Winery is one of Cyprus’s most unusual wine stories, and that’s exactly what makes it worth seeking out. Nestled in Skouriotissa in the Solea valley, this small monastery winery was founded by the Holy Hesychasterion of Saint Seraphim of Sarov, and it has been quietly producing wines of real character since its first Shiraz and Grenache vines went in the ground in 2015. What started as a modest vineyard has grown into a working winery that now cultivates native Cypriot varieties alongside its original plantings. Xynisteri, Morokanella, and Vasilissa have all found a home here, farmed organically and tended with the kind of patience you would expect from a monastic community. The Agios Serafim Solia Winery produces six wines in limited quantities, ranging from a dry Xynisteri white and a Grenache rosé to a traditional-method sparkling wine made from Xynisteri. Their red lineup includes a sweet Shiraz, a dry Solia from Shiraz, and a dry red blending Lefkada, Alicante, and Carignan. Winemaking combines modern cellar practice with traditional principles, and French oak barrels play a role in the maturation of the reds. If you are looking for wines with a story behind every bottle, the Agios Serafim […]
Monastery of Agios Serafeim of Sarov, Katydhata, Cyprus, 2840
Oenoforos is a premier wine merchant house located on Navpliou Street in Limassol, representing some of the finest wine producers from around the world. Founded in 1997 by Alexis and Christina Nicolaides as a family business, the shop evolved into Oenoforos in 2004 with a clear vision to import exceptional fine wines from family-owned estates that capture the unique terroir and character of their regions. The shop specializes in wines from prestigious appellations across France, Italy, and Spain, alongside contemporary varietals from Chile, Argentina, New Zealand, and other New World wine regions. With a carefully curated selection of over 740 products, Oenoforos offers customers a journey through the world’s finest wine regions and renowned winemakers. The shop is known for its exceptional customer service and expertise, with owner Alexis Nikolaides providing personalized recommendations to both private customers and the hospitality industry. Oenoforos represents prestigious producers including Billecart-Salmon, Montes, Delheim, Kaiken, and many others, offering everything from everyday wines to rare, collectible bottles. The shop also provides professional services including private tastings and maintains ideal storage conditions for all wines. Additionally, Oenoforos offers wine cellar cooling systems and an online e-shop for convenient purchasing. Oenoforos has earned multiple accolades including Wine-Searcher’s […]
18 Navpliou str. 3025 Limassol, Cyprus P.O. Box 53466 3303 Limassol, Cyprus
Tucked away at the corner of Archiepiskopou Makariou III and Stylianou Lena Street in the Mesa Geitonia neighbourhood of Limassol, Novinophobia is one of Cyprus’s most distinctive wine shops, a place where serious knowledge and genuine love for wine come together under one roof. More than a cava, it functions as a curated wine and spirits destination built around education, discovery, and personalised guidance. The concept was born in November 2018 by oenologist Marinos Demetriou, a wine and beverage professional with a diploma in Oenology and Beverage Technology, extensive experience managing wine programs for major resorts and restaurants across Cyprus and Greece, and a history as a judge at competitions including the Cyprus Wine Competition and the Thessaloniki International Wine \& Spirit Competition. His vision was simple but compelling: to put a wine and spirit expert at the service of customers who want more than a shelf of bottles, people who want context, stories, and the right wine for the right moment. At Novinophobia wine shop, the selection is carefully researched and constantly evolving, with a focus on lesser-known indigenous varieties and unexplored labels from both Cyprus and the wider world. But the shop’s identity is equally defined by its […]
Makariou III \& Stylianou Lena, 43–45, Shop K1, 4003 Limassol, Cyprus
Nestled in the mountain village of Kyperounta in the heart of the Pitsilia region, Xenofontos Methynaios Winery is one of Cyprus’s most intimate and authentic wine estates. With a family tradition stretching back to the early 1900s and now in its fourth generation, the winery is today guided by oenologist Christodoulos Xenofontos, who oversees every aspect of production with an unwavering commitment to quality. A Micro-Winery with a Grand Terroir At over 1,200 metres above sea level, the Kyperounta area enjoys a distinctive high-altitude microclimate, cool nights, long growing seasons, and pure mountain air that naturally slow the ripening of the grapes. The estate owns 15 hectares of vineyards and also works with trusted cooperating growers whose vines range from 5 to over 80 years old, some of the oldest parcels yielding tiny quantities of intensely flavoured fruit. Everything is vinified and bottled on-site in a compact 45 m² cellar in the village, small in size, but the source of truly remarkable wines. The Wines Production is limited to no more than 5,000 bottles per year, a deliberate choice that ensures hands-on attention at every stage. The range showcases both indigenous Cypriot and international varieties: White – A dry Xynisteri […]
Deisis 52, Kyperounta, Limassol 4876, Cyprus
Top Tier Room is a boutique wine shop in Limassol, created in collaboration with fine‑wine specialist Vinologie, offering a carefully curated selection of quality wines in a modern, cellar‑inspired setting for take‑home enjoyment and gifting.
Agias Zonis 50, Limassol 3095, Cyprus
Domes Sergiou winery is a fresh and exciting addition to the Cyprus wine scene, nestled in the gentle hills around Skarinou village in the Larnaca district. This small, quality‑driven winery focuses on expressing local terroir through indigenous Cypriot grape varieties, crafting clean, modern wines that still feel authentically local. Its countryside setting, just a short drive from the Nicosia Limassol highway, makes it an appealing stop for wine lovers exploring the rural heart of Larnaca’s wine country. Although the winery has not yet officially opened its doors to the public for regular visits and tastings, Domes Sergiou is already attracting attention through its distinctive wines based on Xynisteri, Morokanella, Maratheftiko and a refined Xynisteri–Assyrtiko blend. Wine enthusiasts can currently discover and purchase their bottles online via the winery’s own e‑shop at https://domeswinery.com/, making it easy to explore this emerging producer’s range from home while keeping an eye out for future opportunities to visit the estate in person.
Kalograias, Skarinou 7731, Larnaca, Cyprus
The Commandaria Museum in Silikou celebrates one of Cyprus’s oldest and most famous sweet wines. Set in the historic village of Silikou in the Limassol district (around 650 m altitude), the museum explains how Commandaria grapes were grown, sun‑dried and vinified using the stone-built cellars and presses that shaped the region’s winemaking traditions. The site is also known as the “Commandaria and Oil Museum,” because it also displays traditional olive‑oil equipment and household items that show how local families worked the land. Silikou village sits in the Commandaria zone and has a long winemaking heritage going back to the medieval Lusignan period. The museum uses authentic tools, presses, vats and photographs to trace local methods of production, including the drying of grapes and the traditional distillation of zivania. What you’ll see and do Displays of traditional wine‑making equipment: stone presses, vats, tools and storage rooms Exhibits on the sun‑drying process for Commandaria grapes and on local viticulture practices Interpretation panels on Commandaria’s history in the region and the village’s role on the Commandaria route Visitor tips Contact the village or local hosts before you go to confirm opening hours and whether tastings or guided visits are available. Small local museums […]
Giannou Kranidioti, Silikou, Lemesos, 4742
