If you can pull yourself away from the beach, exploring the wineries in Cyprus is a top activity on the island. Although Cyprus is famous for its stunning weather, turquoise waters, and white sandy beaches, its vineyards are a hidden treasure. Nestled within the hills of the Troodos Mountains are seven main wine routes where you can sample some of the finest wines and enjoy excellent tastings in charming mountain villages.
I spent nearly four months in Cyprus, and during that time, I loved sampling some of the best Cypriot wines while exploring the wineries. I was based in Limassol, which was a great launching point to venture into the mountains for hikes followed by some lovely wine tasting.
Here’s a rundown of some of my favorite wineries and wine-tasting experiences in Cyprus. I’ve chosen these based on location, service, and the variety of grape types they offer. These recommendations are backed by my personal experiences as well as other reviews, ensuring they are all excellent options to try some of the best wines in Cyprus.
Lambouri Winery in Kato Platres is a must-visit and often awarded as one of the best in Cyprus. This family-run winery has been producing wine for over 300 years. With a modern tasting room and a beautiful courtyard, Lambouri offers both red and white varieties, including their famous Commandaria wine. They also produce gin and whisky worth trying.
Tsiakkas Winery in Pelendri is known for its stunning views and excellent wine tours. The one-hour tour costs €7 per person and includes a history lesson about their winemaking process. Tastings range from €8 to €20, with options for delicious meat and cheese platters.
Ayia Mavri Winery in Koilani traditionally produced household wines but now makes over 50,000 bottles per year. Known for its sweet Mosxatos wines and delightful reds like Shiraz, a tour and tasting here costs about €5 per person, or free if you buy wine.
Zambartas Winery in Agios Amvrosios, Limassol, is an artisanal father-and-son-run winery producing over 120,000 bottles a year. They offer various tasting packages, with a tour, five wines, and a cheese platter for €17.50 per person.
Fikardos Winery in Paphos area produces award-winning indigenous and international wines. Tours cost €5 per person, and you can taste four wines for another €5 or eight for €10.
Tsangarides Winery in Lemona offers a blend of old-school traditions with modern styles. They provide guided tours and tastings of seven wines paired with a cheese and bread board for €25 per person.
Vouni Panayia Winery in Panayia offers free tastings and stunning views, making it a picturesque spot to sample wines. Standouts include Barba Yiannis and Alina Xynisteri Dry White.
Vasilikon Winery near the Akamas peninsula produces over 350,000 bottles annually. Their wine-tasting area is accompanied by a wine museum, adding to the experience. Tastings cost €5 for four wines.
Ekfraseis Winery in Chandria offers a variety of tours, with seated tastings starting at €12 per person. This winery is known for its high altitude and unique grape varieties.
Kalamos Winery in Amargeti, near Paphos, is famous for its award-winning local wines. It offers free tastings and friendly service, making it a great spot to discover your favorites.
Makarounas Winery in Letymbou emphasizes indigenous grapes and traditional methods. Tastings range from €10 to €20, accompanied by delicious homemade bread and cheese.
Vlassides Winery in Koilani features a contemporary setup with knowledgeable staff. Tours range from €12 to €50 and offer an in-depth look into winemaking.
Christoudia Winery in Kato Drys started small but now produces 100,000 bottles annually. Tastings cost €4 to try all nine of their wines.
Ktima Gerolemo near Omodos village combines wine tasting with visits to historical sites. The Sunday brunch experience here is particularly popular.
Ktima Vassiliades in Omodos offers a luxurious experience, complete with a pool and fine dining. It’s perfect for a romantic date or special occasion, and their tastings range from €7 to €12.
Cyprus’s wine history dates back nearly 6,000 years. The island is famed for its Commandaria wine, a sweet dessert wine that dates back to the 12th century Crusaders. The Troodos Mountains provide ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality grape varieties, making Cyprus a unique wine-growing region.
Exploring the wineries in Cyprus is a wonderful way to dive into the local culture, history, and flavors. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just a casual drinker, you’re bound to have an amazing experience.