Local Drinks

Zivania 

The production of Zivania, one of Cyprus’s traditional alcoholic drinks, dates back to the end of the 14th century. Zivania is produced by distilling pressed grape residues in special stills or cauldrons using a simple, age-old tradition passed proudly from generation to generation in the island’s wine villages.  

Commandaria 

This delightful dessert wine, which has a taste not unlike sweet sherry, has been made using the same method for hundreds of years. The grapes are picked late, dried in the sun to enhance their sugar content and then pressed. The run-off is collected and fermented in tanks or in huge earthen ware jars.
The sweet wine of Cyprus became known throughout Europe under the name.

Wines 

The classic grapes of Cyprus are the Mavro, Xinisteri, Opthalmo and Muscat varieties. These produce rich, vigorous, strong wines. Due to a concerted effort to broaden the range of local wines, more delicate, fruity, mellow wines made from European strains such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Grenache and Palomino are also available.  

 

 

 

Cyprus Coffee 

Unlike most kinds of coffee served in Europe, Cyprus coffee is brewed in small, long handled pots, wide at the base and tapering at the top called “mbrikia” which were traditionally made of copper. The coffee is made from fresh, finely ground coffee beans, usually Brazilian.
Cyprus coffee is served in small cups and is customarily accompanied with a glass of cold water.