Increasing the use of public transport and minimising car dependency are two significant ways to help Europe reach ambition climate and energy-saving targets. At the heart of achieving both is the continent's railways.
03.09.2023 - 08:19 / euronews.com
Imagine thousands of years of wine-making tradition, picturesque mountains and a tight-knit culture where family comes first, and you’ll start to get the flavour of Cypriot wineries.
The island country is getting more and more attention for its delicious wines and for good reason.
Cypriot wineries often tell not only the story of wine but of the family behind it. This is what I experienced when I visited Tsiakkas Winery, founded by Kostas and Marina Tsiakkas who wanted to start their own business and leave the white-collar life behind.
What initially began with the production of 500 bottles per year grew into an impressive 200,000 bottles, visitors from all over the world, and a progressive second generation ready to continue the family business.
Here are some good reasons why you should explore wineries during your stay in Cyprus.
Orestis Tsiakkas, the head winemaker of Tsiakkas Winery and the eldest son of Kostas and Marina, studied viticulture (grape cultivation) and enology (winemaking) in France, Germany, and Spain.
“On the one hand we have the tradition from our parents, and on the other hand, we have our academic knowledge and innovative spirit,” he says.
“Marrying tradition and innovation results in something truly unique.”
Indeed, second-generation Cypriot winemakers often promote their wines abroad, experiment with new ideas, and breathe creativity into wine activities in Cyprus.
There are different indigenous grape varieties in Cyprus, with Xynisteri (white) and Mavro (red) being the most common ones. These are also used in the making of commandaria, the world’s oldest manufactured wine.
As you taste this sweet, viscous wine, remember how Richard the Lionheart described it: “the wine of kings and the king of wines.”
First gaining popularity during the Crusades in the 12th century, this is no ordinary wine. Today, it is only produced in 14 specific villages in the Troodos Mountains.
If you have a question during or after the wine tasting, ask your local guide. You’ll be surprised how many unexpected stories there are, hidden in the Cypriot vineyards.
Take my experience at Tsiakkas Winery, for example. Besides wine and commandaria, I also had zivania, the traditional Cypriot pomace brandy as part of the tasting. Later on, when I asked Orestis if producing zivania has always been the plan, he shared a fun anecdote.
Apparently, his dad invented this zivania by mistake. He forgot it in a barrel and only remembered to check it five years later. “Really amazing,” in Orestis’s own words.
Home to Europe’s highest vineyards at more than 1,300 metres, Cypriot wineries are not short of breathtaking views. And the best part is - you won’t have to wait until you get to the winery to enjoy the views.
As you make your
Increasing the use of public transport and minimising car dependency are two significant ways to help Europe reach ambition climate and energy-saving targets. At the heart of achieving both is the continent's railways.
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