Are you a wine enthusiast looking to explore new wineries? Look no further! We’ve curated a comprehensive list of both traditional and modern wineries in Cyprus.
Whether you prefer the charm of old-world techniques or the innovation of contemporary methods, Cyprus has it all. Get ready to indulge your senses with the rich history and exquisite flavors these wineries have to offer.
Join us on this exciting journey as we uncover the hidden gems of Cyprus’ vibrant wine scene.
In terms of the landscape and architecture of wineries in Cyprus, here are some recommendations for both modern and traditionally oriented establishments:
Related: Guide to Wine Tasting in Cyprus
Traditional Wineries in Cyprus
If you prefer the old-world charm, check out these wineries in Cyprus.
Nelion Winery
A charming spot known for its time-honored winemaking practices.
Founded in 1996 by the Ioannou family, Nelion Winery is located near Pretori on the scenic Paphos to Troodos road in Cyprus. This boutique winery blends time-honored Cypriot viticultural traditions with modern techniques to produce wines that have quickly gained acclaim.
Nelion’s dedication to producing a limited quantity – approximately 25,000 bottles annually – allows for meticulous quality control over its extensive range of eight different labels.
The winery, nestled among its meticulously tended vineyards, invites enthusiasts to explore their palates with tastings that reflect its philosophy of high standards and personalized customer experience. Nelion’s offerings can be enjoyed at the winery itself or found at select wine retailers throughout Cyprus, embodying a local dedication to excellence in viticulture.
Address: F616, Praitori 8630, Cyprus
Ayia Mavri Winery
Steeped in history, this winery captures the essence of Cyprus’ rich cultural heritage.
Ayia Mavri Winery stands as a testament to Cyprus’ viticultural heritage, nestled in the village of Koilani in the renowned “Krasochoria” wine villages at the foot of the Troodos Mountains.
Founded in 1983, the winery is rooted in the practices passed down from the founders’ ancestors, who cultivated vineyards and produced wine in traditional clay jars or pytharia.
Situated at an elevation of 900 meters, with optimal climate and soil conditions, Koilani has long been a center of viticulture, where historically, every household had its own winemaking facilities. Embracing both heritage and innovation, Ayia Mavri Winery cultivates an array of indigenous and international grape varieties such as Mavro, Xinisteri, Muscat of Alexandria, Lefkada, as well as Shiraz, Cabernet, Mataro, Grenache and Carignan. This allows the production of different styles of wine, from white to red, from dry to sweet.
Keeping tradition alive while incorporating modern technology, the winery boasts an annual production of 50,000 bottles, continuing the family dream of growing and making wine with passion and expertise.
Adress: Archimandriti Kyprianou E803 8, Koilani 4776, Cyprus
Linos Winery
A hidden gem that skillfully intertwines tradition with a unique winemaking experience.
Founded in 1988 by Erodotos Erodotou, Linos Winery is nestled in the idyllic wine-producing region of Limassol, Cyprus, with vineyards stretching from Afami to the slopes of Laona. Named after the Greek term for a traditional wine press, Linos is one of the island’s pioneering “small” wineries, revered for its portfolio of eight labels, including the acclaimed Mediterranean Blue. Annual production is capped at an impressive 200,000 bottles, ensuring a focus on quality over quantity.
Erodotou, a former member of ΚΥΠ (the Cypriot equivalent of the CIA), echoes a common narrative among Cypriot winemakers who have left diverse careers to pursue the lure of winemaking. His venture into winemaking was initially fueled by his wife’s passion, which, after three years of persistent persuasion and accolades from the Department of Viticulture and Oenology, culminated in establishing Linos Winery in his native Omodos.
With a concerted focus on improving the caliber of his wines, Erodotou is dedicated to cultivating dynamic varieties such as Mataro and Maratheftiko, which are well adapted to the Cypriot soil. His current efforts include the conversion of his 25 hectares of vineyards to organic farming under the guidance of internationally recognized certification bodies.
Visitors to the winery can also indulge in Mrs. Erodotou’s homemade Soutzioukos, a traditional Cypriot confection of grape juice and nuts that pairs beautifully with the winery’s Commandaria or Zivania, available in half-kilo airtight packages for a truly authentic experience.
Address: Omodos, 4760, Cyprus
Avacas Winery
Celebrates the art of winemaking, preserving the authenticity of Cyprus’ viticultural legacy.
Nestled in the verdant slopes of Statos in central Paphos, at an altitude of 1000 meters, Avacas Winery continues a legacy steeped in ancient winemaking traditions dating back to the 8th century, as documented in Byzantine and Roman texts praising the region’s exceptional wines and Koumandaria. Since the beginning of its commercial trajectory in 1988, Avacas Winery has dedicated itself to producing wines of the highest quality that appeal to contemporary palates.
Careful viticulture is at the heart of Avacas’ operations, with each phase, from pruning to harvest, meticulously monitored to ensure that only the finest grapes reach the pressing room. The grapes, harvested and quickly transported to the winery in small crates to preserve their freshness, undergo vinification in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, a critical step in the creation of distinguished wines. This commitment extends to bottling, which is done on site to ensure the integrity of the final product.
The synthesis of fine grapes, careful varietal selection, cutting-edge technology, skilled personnel, and the rich tapestry of family wisdom in winemaking combine to ensure the high caliber and consistency of Avacas wines. This harmony of traditional values and modern precision has earned the winery not only a loyal consumer base, but also critical acclaim, winning prestigious awards and earning the endorsement of wine experts and aficionados alike.
Address: E606 Statos, Ayios Photios 8651, Cyprus
Chryssorogia Winery
Embraces religious tradition, offering visitors a taste of Cyprus’ time-honored winemaking traditions.
Chrysoroyia Winery, also known as Chrysoroyiattisa, is a beacon of Cypriot viticulture, located in the village of Panayia, near Paphos, at an altitude of 900 meters. The winery, which takes its name from “Our Lady of the Golden Pomegranate”, occupies a site rich in history, with roots dating back to the underground cellars and time-worn jars of the Chrysoroyiatissa Monastery since 1725 A.D.
Revived in 1984, Chrysoroyia pays homage to its heritage by blending ancient practices with modern winemaking techniques in its new facilities amidst the monastery’s vineyards.
The unique terroir gives its wines – which include the renowned white wine variety Xynisteri, the high-quality red wine varieties Maratheftiko and the local Mavro, as well as international favorites like Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon – a distinctive flavor profile that has won both local and international acclaim.
Note, however, that there appear to be some inaccuracies regarding the grape varieties: Shiraz (Syrah) and Cabernet Sauvignon are red wine grapes, not white, and Cabernet Sauvignon is not typically associated with western France; it originated in the Bordeaux region.
The winery’s commitment to excellence has solidified its status in the winemaking community, yielding a multitude of awards and positioning its products as hallmarks of Cypriot oenological prowess.
Address: Holy Monastery of Chrysoroyiatissa, Panayia 8649 Paphos, Cyprus
Modern Wineries in Cyprus
For something new, check out these modern wineries in Cyprus.
Related read: 10 Day Cyprus Itinerary
Constantinou Winery
A beacon of modern winemaking, known for pushing the boundaries while respecting heritage.
Founded in 1992 in the verdant village of Pera Pedi, on the outskirts of the Limassol district of Cyprus, Constantinou Winery was born out of the vision of Costas Constantinou, a driven entrepreneur with deep local roots.
Beginning with the art of liqueur making and achieving initial success with the renowned orange liqueur “Orali“, Constantinou’s enterprise blossomed, leading to further acclaim with a celebrated coffee liqueur that captivated tourists and locals alike. In time, these efforts elevated the name “Orali” to become synonymous with the company itself.
With ambitions that extended beyond liqueurs, Constantinou ventured into viticulture, unveiling his first dry white wine, “Ayioklima“, in 2000. These early expeditions began in a quaint stone house in Pera Pedi, which served as a sanctuary for experimentation, research, and the study of oenology until 2009. As recognition and production increased, the need for growth led to the inauguration of a modern 800 square meter facility equipped with the latest technology for top-quality winemaking.
This contemporary space houses several functional areas including a welcoming reception, tasting room, grape processing, labeling, cellar, administrative offices, and the heart of the operation, the production unit.
With 10 acres of its own vineyards and working with over 30 local growers, the winery’s production has reached an impressive 200,000 bottles annually under eight distinctive wine labels. Constantinou Winery’s goal is to expand its vineyard holdings to 50 acres within the next five years, a strategic move designed to broaden its capabilities in creating new and exceptional wines and solidify its reputation for quality and innovation in the wine industry.
Address: Pera pedi, Limassol, Cyprus
Papaioannou Winery
A modern gem that explores new frontiers in winemaking, capturing the spirit of innovation.
Nestled in the rolling splendor of Cyprus’ LAONA region, Papaioannou Winery is a tribute to the island’s rich viticultural tapestry. The term “LAONA“, derived from the ancient Greek word “λαγών,” aptly describes this enclave among the hills, where sun-drenched, south-facing slopes and a congenial climate create a distinctive terroir. These natural endowments, together with the specific characteristics of the soil and the altitude, have earned the area the proud designation of “Krasohoria Lemesou – LAONA“, a protected designation of origin for its unique contributions to winemaking.
The Papaioannou estate is steeped in family devotion to the grape, with roots that stretch back through four generations of winemakers. It was in the midst of this lineage that Chrisis Papaioannou, captivated by tales of the LAONA region’s esteemed history in viticulture, nurtured his knowledge alongside age-old family traditions. With ambition and reverence, Chrisis cultivated and expanded the family’s vineyard portfolio to more than 400 acres dedicated to the winery’s exclusive use.
Inaugurated in 2018, Papaioannou Winery is the embodiment of Chrisis’ youthful dreams and the enduring legacy of his ancestors. Visitors to the winery are warmly invited to step into the Papaioannou story, experience Chrisis’s passion firsthand, savor the varietals that come from the cherished vines, and enjoy the celebrated hospitality that only a family with such deep ties to wine can extend.
Address: Vasa Koilaniou, Limassol, Cyprus
Santa Irene Winery
A contemporary haven where tradition meets modernity, offering a diverse range of premium wines.
Located in the high altitude vineyards of the LAONA region of Cyprus, Santa Irene Winery is a testament to the art of winemaking, blending tradition with modern science. Recognizing the critical influence of grape varieties, environmental conditions, meticulous vineyard care and innovative production techniques on a wine’s profile, the winery’s philosophy is rooted in creating exceptional wines that reflect the unique character of Cyprus.
Founded by the passionate vision of Chrisis Papaioannou, who comes from a long line of winemakers, the winery has breathed new life into the centuries-old vines that cover the steep slopes of Pitsilia. With some 200 acres of private vineyards, some more than 120 years old, up to 1,350 meters above sea level, Santa Irene champions the local Mavro Ampelisimo and Xynisteri grape varieties, aiming to preserve and revitalize this cultural heritage.
The winery produces five labels from Mavro Ampelisimo, including Protari, Laxia and the distinctive Late Harvest, Rosé Theoni, and the incomparable Blanc de noir Daniel – the only Cypriot white wine made from red Mavro Ampelisimo grapes. With three more labels from Xynisteri and offerings from Shiraz and Malaga (Muscat of Alexandria) varietals, Santa Irene proudly presents a portfolio of over 30 internationally awarded wines.
Santa Irene’s commitment to excellence is unwavering, as evidenced by its influence on the No. 7 Wine Route, which winds through the picturesque villages of Cyprus. Visitors are warmly welcomed to the winery for tours or vineyard safaris (by appointment), to dine at Ierambelos Restaurant with its renowned Cypriot fusion cuisine, or to stay at Farmakas Living’s rural agritourism houses, immersing themselves in the local culture and natural splendor. With passionate craftsmanship and a connection to the land, Santa Irene Winery embodies the spirit of Cypriot winemaking.
Address: Δημοκρατίας No 1, Farmakas 2620, Cyprus
Ais Ambelis Winery
A modern masterpiece, known for its dedication to excellence in both craftsmanship and innovation.
Established in 1992 in the rolling countryside of Kalo Chorio Orinis in the Nicosia district, Ais Ambelis Winery embodies a commitment to producing wines of superior taste and distinctive character.
Located 28 kilometers southwest of the capital, the winery’s unique architectural presence houses state-of-the-art winemaking facilities, an underground aging cellar and an inviting tasting and reception hall, all purposefully designed to combine innovative technology with the human touch – the soul of the winery’s dedicated team.
Anchored by a three-hectare vineyard rich in Maratheftiko and Shiraz varieties, Ais Ambelis is resolutely committed to eco-conscious farming, ensuring a harmonious relationship with the land. The winery’s annual production not only champions quality, but also showcases an eclectic range of wines, meticulously cared for from vine to bottle.
Open all year round, Ais Ambelis welcomes visitors to sample its wines in its custom-designed tasting room, where panoramic views stretch from the atmospheric barrel cellar to the serene Pitsilia mountains. Guests are offered a comprehensive tour that traces the journey of winemaking, a lively exploration complemented by a seated tasting experience. Here, the nuanced flavors of the wines are enhanced by a curated selection of local cheeses and charcuterie, connecting the winery’s offerings to Cyprus’ rich culinary heritage.
Address: 2594+X76, Οινοποιείου Άγιος Αμπέλης, 2616, Cyprus
Cyprus Wine Tour
Join an exclusive small group wine tour guaranteed to captivate and immerse you in the enchanting world of Cypriot wines.
Embark on a remarkable journey through the Pafos region, where the highlight awaits at intimate wineries specializing in exceptional varietal and blended wines.
Cyprus boasts some 20 such wineries that produce a modest quantity of between 10 and 100 thousand bottles each year. This limited production adds value and rarity to these extraordinary creations.
At each winery, you will have the opportunity to witness the meticulous process of winemaking firsthand before indulging in delightful tastings.
The first stop is the village of Katikas, where picturesque vineyards await your leisurely stroll. Visit Vassilikon Winery – one of the oldest wineries in Paphos, covering an area of approximately 4000m2. Here you will find not only their production area, but also cellars, a bar and a fascinating wine museum showcasing Cyprus’ rich viticultural history. Vassilikon has an impressive annual bottling capacity of 350,000 bottles.
Continuing your adventure brings you to the village of Lemony, where the Tsangaridis family winery is nestled among sprawling vineyards and charming rustic structures that blend time-honored traditions with modern technology.
Your next stop will be the village of Strumbi, where you will visit the Kamanterena Winery, part of the renowned SODAP cooperative since its founding in 1947. Working with more than ten thousand families from different vineyards (144), Kamanterena consistently participates in prestigious international wine fairs, winning numerous awards.
For your grand finale, Vuni Winery, founded in 1987, offers an extensive selection of fine wines and its own museum and restaurant. After sampling their exquisite offerings, enjoy a delicious lunch at this magnificent winery.
After immersing yourself in the charm of Cypriot wines, it’s only natural that you’ll want to take a bottle home as a souvenir. The taste of Cyprus will soothe your soul every time you uncork that treasured bottle and bring back memories of your wonderful days on this idyllic Mediterranean island.
Price: €95
Duration: 8 hours
Group size: 20 max
This comprehensive wine tour package includes
- Convenient hotel pick up and drop off
- Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned motor coach
- Memorable wine tastings
Regarding wine-making practices and technology used, here are a few other suggestions for wineries to visit in Cyprus:
Modern Wineries
- Vlassides Winery: Known for their innovative techniques and commitment to quality.
- Zambartas Wineries: Embraces modern practices while focusing on local grape varieties.
- Tsiakkas Winery: Combines modern technology with a passion for traditional winemaking.
Traditional Wineries
- Ezousa Winery: Maintains a traditional approach, emphasizing the unique terroir of Cyprus.
- Fikardos Winery: Blends modern technology with respect for traditional winemaking heritage.
- Kolios Winery: Cherishes traditional methods, producing wines that reflect Cyprus’ cultural richness.
