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
Sterna Boutique Winery in Kathikas is a family run spot with its own vineyards and a seriously cool ancient cave cellar where wines age just like they did 2,000 years ago. Stop by for a relaxed tasting, explore the cave and little museum, and try their Koralli, Kelaidonis, and Mayoklima wines. Great views, friendly people, zero pretension.
Kathikas, Cyprus
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
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
As the newest addition to the En Fiali family, the En Fiali Strovolos branch brings the brand’s renowned fine drinking concept to one of Nicosia’s most vibrant and populated municipalities. Located on the bustling Strovolos Avenue, this fresh and modern cava continues the tradition of offering an exceptional variety of premium spirits, rare whiskies, and fine wines at wholesaler prices. This expansion allows both connoisseurs and everyday shoppers in the southern Nicosia suburbs to easily explore En Fiali’s expertly curated collections. Whether you are looking for a unique single malt, a premium local wine, or the perfect gift, the Strovolos location offers a welcoming atmosphere with the same high standards and knowledgeable service the brand is known for. En Fiali operates three locations across Nicosia, making it easy to find premium spirits and fine wines wherever you are in the city. Visit one of their other branches: 📍 En Fiali Old Town – Aischylou 67-69, Faneromeni 📍 En Fiali Latsia – Arch. Makariou III 17, Latsia
Strovolou Ave 117, Strovolos 2042, Cyprus
Nestled in the scenic village of Agios Epifanios Orinis in the Nicosia District, Povis Winery is a family-run boutique winery with deep historical roots. Established by George Nicolaou, a fifth-generation winemaker, the winery continues a tradition of viticulture that has been passed down through generations. The estate is set within a vineyard on the sloping hills of the village, offering a picturesque setting that reflects the natural beauty of the Cypriot countryside. Povis Winery is not only a place for wine production but also a testament to the enduring legacy of Cypriot winemaking, blending historical significance with artisanal craftsmanship. Povis Winery specializes in producing wine and zivania (a traditional Cypriot spirit) from local grape varieties cultivated in the family’s 200-year-old vineyards. These old vines, nurtured by generations of the Nicolaou family, contribute to the unique character and quality of the wines. In addition to wines, Povis produces limited-production olive oil from Koroneiki and local olive varieties, grown and harvested primarily by hand. The winery’s commitment to traditional methods and sustainable practices ensures that each product, whether wine, zivania, or olive oil, captures the authentic flavors and aromas of the region. Visitors to Povis can experience the warmth of Cypriot hospitality […]
Aggoula 1, Agios Epifanios Orinis
The Hadjicharalambous Boutique Winery (HCH Winery) is a family-run boutique winery located in the heart of Stroumbi village in Paphos, Cyprus, dedicated to producing handmade, limited-production wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the local terroir. The winery exclusively uses grapes from its own vineyards, carefully cultivating them to exploit the rich soil of Stroumbi, and specializes in five labels crafted from Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah grape varieties. With a strict focus on quality over quantity, the winery’s annual production is intentionally limited to approximately 2,000 bottles, allowing meticulous attention to detail in every step of the winemaking process to ensure each bottle meets high standards of craftsmanship. Beyond its commitment to artisanal winemaking, HCH Winery offers immersive visitor experiences designed to create a deep connection between wine lovers and the winemaking journey. Guests can participate in hands-on activities such as grape smashing, juice tasting, bottle filling, and corking, actively engaging in the production process while learning about winemaking mysteries. The winery’s setting in the majestic scenery of Stroumbi enhances the tasting experience, which is positioned as not just a wine tasting but a holistic celebration of the family’s values and vision. These experiences cater to both curious newcomers […]
13 Lainas Avenue, Stroumbi, Paphos, 8550
Pittali Winery is a family passion project founded by Fanis Pittalis in the charming mountain village of Agios Theodoros Pitsilias. What makes this winery special is its deep connection to the land and its people. Fanis originally studied Mechanical Engineering, but in 2019 something shifted. He returned to his ancestral village and discovered a forgotten legacy: the abandoned vineyards and winemaking traditions of his great-grandfather Ioannis Mpeis, who planted his first vineyard back in 1910, and his relative Antonis Ioannou, who built a family winery in the 1950s with nothing but dedication and heart. Inspired by these stories, Fanis pursued a Master’s degree in Viticulture and Enology, combining his ancestors’ passion with modern knowledge. Today, Pittali Winery stands as a tribute to the people and traditions that shaped Pitsilia. Since 2019, Fanis has been rescuing old, neglected vineyards from decline and experimenting with small-scale winemaking that honors both tradition and innovation. The winery blends authenticity with craft, planting new vineyards that balance time-tested knowledge with modern techniques and sustainability. Every bottle tells a story of the Pitsilia mountains, reflecting the hard work and meraki (that untranslatable Greek word for putting your heart and soul into your work) that his ancestors […]
Louveri 33, Agios Theodoros 4870, Cyprus
