The Nicosia region, located in the heart of Cyprus, is often associated with the island’s administrative and cultural center, but few know that one of Cyprus’s most exciting wine regions is located just outside the capital. The wineries surrounding Nicosia are distinguished by their seclusion, individual approach, and commitment to reviving ancient varieties while preserving the island’s ecological integrity and winemaking traditions.
Unlike the coastal regions, where vineyards are located by the sea, the Nicosia region extends at altitudes of 500–900 meters, near the Troodos Mountains. Dry, warm summers, cool winters, and limestone soils predominate here—all of which create favorable conditions for growing grapes with rich aromas and high acidity.
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The history of winemaking in the Nicosia region
The history of winemaking in the central part of the island goes back centuries. Archaeological excavations in the areas of Lefkara and Kato Moni indicate that wines were produced here even in ancient times, which were supplied to the ancient cities of Kition and Soloi .
During the Venetian and later Ottoman rule, Nicosia’s wine culture survived mainly in the monasteries and mountain villages, where monks continued to produce wine for church use.
The region’s modern wineries combine tradition and innovation, using indigenous grape varieties— Xynisteri , Mavro , Marofeftiko , and Yianouda —and employing modern fermentation and aging techniques. The result is wines with a vibrant Mediterranean character, reflecting the diversity of the Cypriot terroir .
Geography and climate features
The wine-growing areas around Nicosia are concentrated in villages at the foot of the Troodos Mountains, where the air is clean and temperatures range from 10°C in winter to 30°C in summer. The difference in day and night temperatures helps the grapes retain their freshness and aroma .
Most of the wineries are located in the areas of Kathmadania , Lefkara , Vavla , Kato Dryfos and Panagia , where the hills and terraced slopes create ideal conditions for growing both white and red grape varieties.
Famous wineries of the region
Aes Ambelis Winery
One of the most renowned wineries, located in the village of Kato Moni, just 20 kilometers from Nicosia. Founded in 1992, it has become a symbol of modern Cypriot winemaking. The building’s architecture, surrounded by vineyards, blends harmoniously with the natural landscape. Production is based on a combination of tradition and environmental principles: no chemical fertilizers or pesticides are used.
The winery’s assortment includes red Maratheftiko and Shiraz , white Xynisteri and Sauvignon Blanc , as well as award-winning blends at international competitions. Guests can enjoy tastings and tours of the wine cellars and vineyards.
Dafermou Winery
Situated in the Lefkara region , between Larnaca and Nicosia, it is considered one of the most picturesque wineries in Cyprus. The winery boasts a contemporary architectural style, but its winemaking methods draw on centuries-old traditions.
Dafermou wines are renowned for their freshness and finely balanced flavors. They produce white and rosé wines from the Xynisteri and Sauvignon grape varieties. Blanc , Shiraz and Cabernet Franc . The property features a tasting room with views of the valley and mountain hills, as well as an event space.
Tsiakkas Winery
Although the winery is closer to Limassol , it is often included in wine tours from Nicosia due to its convenient transport accessibility . Winery , founded in 1988, is considered one of the leading family wineries on the island.
Particular attention is paid to the local Maratheftiko and Yiannoudi grape varieties , which produce wines with deep aromas and a long finish. The winery also produces the popular white Xynisteri , with light citrus notes.
Ayia Mavri Winery
A small family-run winery located near the village of Kalo Chorio is known for its dessert wines, particularly the rare Muscat variety. of Alexandria . Production is limited, but the quality of the drinks is consistently high. Ayia Mavri The winery frequently participates in festivals and competitions, receiving recognition for its traditional sweet wines.
Christoudia Winery
Located in the Kato Dryfos area , approximately 35 kilometers from Nicosia, this winery combines traditional methods with modern technology. Its selection includes wines from the Mavro , Cabernet Sauvignon , Maratheftiko and Xynisteri .
Visitors can not only taste the drinks, but also visit the winemaking museum, which houses a collection of antique equipment and tools.
Nicosia Wine Routes
The Nicosia region is included in the official Wine program Routes of Cyprus , which combines tourist routes through wineries and villages. One of the most popular is the Lefkara – Kato Dryfos – Vavla route , where travelers can visit several wineries and sample local wines and traditional products such as halloumi , olive oil , and honey.
In spring and autumn, wine festivals are held here , where visitors learn about the harvest process, participate in tastings, and learn to distinguish the aromas of wine. The atmosphere of these festivals highlights the hospitality of Cypriot culture and respect for the land.
Cypriot grape varieties and their characteristics
Winemakers in the central region emphasize local varieties, which give their drinks a unique character.
- Xynisteri is the main white variety, producing light, aromatic wines with citrus notes.
- Maratheftiko is a rare red variety that produces wines with rich aromas of ripe berries, prunes and spices.
- Yiannoudi is a nearly lost variety that has been revived by enthusiasts and is used for blending.
- Mavro is a classic Cypriot variety used to make traditional dessert wines.
Local winemakers place particular emphasis on ecological vine growing methods: minimal intervention, hand harvesting, and natural fermentation without additives.
Practical information
The wineries around Nicosia are accessible by car—the distances between villages are short, but public transportation is limited. Many wineries require advance reservations for tours and tastings.
Spring and fall are ideal times for visiting: the temperatures are comfortable, and the vineyards are especially picturesque. Despite the summer heat, the mountains remain cool, and in winter, wineries offer cozy tastings by the fireplace.
Some wineries offer the opportunity to purchase wine directly from the factory or order delivery abroad. Many wineries combine production with agritourism , offering guesthouses for overnight stays.
The Nicosia region’s wineries are a living embodiment of Cypriot history and culture. Here, ancient traditions blend with modern technology to create wines with individual character and an authentic taste of the island.
A tour of the wineries near Nicosia is more than just a tasting; it’s an introduction to the soul of the country, its nature, its aromas, and the people who have dedicated their lives to their craft. Every glass of Cypriot wine captures the warmth of the earth, the Troodos sun , and the centuries-old art of winemakers who transform labor and patience into a drink that symbolizes the hospitality and traditions of Cyprus.
