Chatzicharalampous Winery, nestled in the picturesque village of Koilani, Cyprus, is a third-generation family-owned estate where tradition and innovation converge in winemaking. The winery’s origins trace back to the 1960s when grandfather Michalis (Takis) first planted vineyards, with the initial winery established in 1975, first in his home and later in the village center. Today, the estate is led by the third generation: Marios Chatzicharalampous (viticulturalist and former firefighter), his daughter Argyro (who holds a master’s degree in oenology from Athens Agricultural University), and son Michalis (a mechanical engineer). Notably, it is one of the few female-led wineries in Cyprus. The vineyards, cultivated by Marios, are situated around Koilani at elevations ranging from 650 meters to 1,050 meters on the renowned Afames mountain, benefiting from diverse microclimates that contribute to the complexity of the wines. The winery has expanded significantly over the years, increasing its annual production from 3,500 to 7,500 bottles while maintaining a focus on artisanal methods and indigenous grape varieties.
The winery currently produces three labels, showcasing a blend of local and international varieties. These include a crisp white wine made from 100% Xynisteri (a native Cypriot grape), a rosé crafted from Grenache Noir and Syrah (60%-40% blend), and a structured Cabernet Sauvignon aged for a year in oak barrels. Argyro Chatzicharalampous has also been experimenting with the Greek red variety Xinomavro, planning to release it as a limited-edition label, a pioneering effort in the region. The winery’s logo is deeply symbolic, designed to represent the cycle of life in the vineyard: a skull signifies winter dormancy, a closed and open rose symbolize spring and blossoming, and a butterfly represents fertilization and renewal. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and tastings led by Argyro, offering insights into both the family’s winemaking heritage and modern techniques. The wines are primarily available in Limassol at selected shops and wine bars, as well as directly from the winery or through online orders, reflecting the estate’s commitment to sharing its artisanal creations with a growing audience of wine enthusiasts.
