Cypriot wine

The Cypriot wine industry boasts a rich history spanning thousands of years, with the island particularly renowned for its internationally acclaimed Commandaria wine. Throughout the centuries, the industry has undergone significant transformations, shaped by distinct periods: ancient times, medieval to 1878, 1878–1980, and 1980 onwards. The British occupation played a pivotal role in developing the wine sector, leading to the establishment of prominent wineries such as ETKO and KEO.

To address various industry challenges, policymakers introduced reforms to improve the quality of wine production in Cyprus. These reforms included the introduction of new grape varieties, incentives for small regional wineries, and the launch of an Appellation of Origin in 2007. The Cyprus Vine Products Council enforces regulations based on European Union standards, categorizing wines into three main types: table wine, local wine with geographical indication, and protected designation of origin.

Local grape varieties, such as Mavro and Xynisteri, are prevalent in current vineyards, with ongoing efforts to introduce new varieties to enhance wine quality. The Cyprus Wine Museum in Erimi village offers a captivating glimpse into the island's winemaking history, dating back to 3,500 BC. For tourists, wine routes provide an excellent opportunity to explore the diverse wine-producing regions of Cyprus.