Cyprus is one of the emerging wine-producing countries, with fantastic vineyards, a combination of high altitudes (up to 1.600 meters) and old own-rooted vines. Xynisteri is the pride of the vineyard, a white variety with many Mediterranean characteristics. It produces fruity wines with lemon and peach flavors, complemented by herbal or mineral aromas. The body is light to moderate, with high level of freshness and a sense of minerality. It probably resembles in Greek context more of Robola than of Assyrtiko.

 

We in Greece and Grapes are always looking for exciting "new" wines to complement the wonderful Greek varieties and we now have a collection of Cypriot wines. They fit both as aperitifs but also for gastronomical dishes. It is not easy to find such quality "terroir wines" in the range of 10-12€, which can even age extremely well, as is the case of Petritis from Kyperounda.

 

The two wines we suggest today are:

 

Vouni Panagia Alina Xynisteri 2017

 

 

 A wonderful Xynisteri from the family winery Vouni Panagia of the Kyriakides family, from 70 years old vines, at an altitude of 1.150 meters. A wine with tension, light alcohol with piercing lime and stone fruit, with lemony acidity. A charming crispy, mineralic wine. Perfect match for ceviche, sushi or pasta with seafood.
 
Kyperounda Petritis Xynisteri 2017
 
Here, we leave Paphos and we go to the area of Pitsilia, at a higher altitude near 1.500 meters. Petritis is a complex, spicy and creamy wine which is a benchmark for Cypriot wine. Effortless and delicious Xynisteri. Six months fermentation on the lees, in stainless steel tanks and partly oak matured for 3 months. Pair it with grilled prime fish, poultry, langoustines and lobster.

Check out our entire collection of Cypriot wines here

Photo Credit: The vineyards of Vouni Panagia (Yiannis Karakasis)