Mystes Winery, located in the picturesque village of Archimandrita, embodies the rich traditions of Cypriot winemaking. The name “Mystes” derives from the Greek word for one initiated in the mysteries of Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility, reflecting the winery’s deep-rooted connection to ancient practices.
Mystes winery: A Legacy of Winemaking
At the helm of Mystes Winery is Loucas Papaloucas, who has dedicated his life to honouring his family’s legacy of grape cultivation and wine production. Following in the footsteps of his father, Loucas brings a wealth of experience to the winery, having honed his skills at Kamanterena Winery in Stroumbi, Paphos. His approach to winemaking is a harmonious blend of traditional techniques and modern innovations, creating wines that truly express the unique terroir of Cyprus.
Craftsmanship Behind the Wines
Loucas adopts a philosophy that emphasises minimal intervention, allowing the fruit and the land to dictate the final product. This results in wines that are not only fruit-driven but also exhibit good structure, showcasing the natural strengths of the vineyard. Over the years, he has developed a profound understanding of how to best express the vineyard’s characteristics, leading to exceptional wines that resonate with both local and international palates.
Exploring the Mystes Portfolio
Mystes Winery has gained recognition for its diverse range of wines, particularly its three flagship offerings introduced a few years ago: a Chardonnay, a Syrah rosé, and a pure Maratheftiko red. Each label is adorned with an ideogram from Linear B, an ancient script representing wine, which adds to the winery’s allure.
New Additions to the Collection
Recently, the Mystes portfolio has expanded to include four new labels, further showcasing the winery’s commitment to indigenous varieties. The new offerings include:
- 2024 Mystes Winery Orange Xynisteri (ABV 13%): This unique orange wine undergoes 25 to 30 days of skin maceration in used oak barrels. It offers a complex bouquet of orange blossom, ripe stone fruit, and a botanical character, with a palate that is moderately tannic and layered with flavours of dried citrus peel and preserved apricot. Perfect for pairing with Lebanese dishes like hummus and felafel, this wine retails for €18.
- 2021 Mystes Winery Promara (ABV 14%): A light straw yellow wine that marks a shift towards less intervention, featuring spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel tanks. With aromas of mandarin blossom and peach, this wine is best enjoyed with grilled sea bream or roast turkey, priced at €24.
- 2024 Mystes Winery Chardonnay (ABV 14%): Crafted from whole grapes using pneumatic pressing and low-temperature fermentation, this wine reveals enticing aromas of white peach and caramelised pineapple, complemented by a zesty finish. Ideal for lighter meats and buttery dishes, it is available for €19.
- 2022 Mystes Winery Giannoudi (ABV 14%): A vibrant gastro rosé with red strawberry hues, showcasing pomegranate and spring flower aromas. It pairs well with grilled fish and is priced at €16.
The Allure of Indigenous Varieties
Among the new labels, the 2022 Mystes Winery Giannoudi-Maratheftiko blend stands out. This full-bodied red features a harmonious mix of Giannoudi and Maratheftiko, resulting in a wine with dark berry aromas and a silky mouthfeel. It is an excellent match for hearty dishes such as roast pork and rich pasta, retailing at €18.
Completing the collection is the 2018 Mystes Winery Maratheftiko, a classic red that undergoes both fermentation and malolactic fermentation in tanks before ageing in oak for 12 months. With its deep red colour and generous aromas of black cherries and plums, this wine is perfect for pairing with grilled lamb chops or beef stew, priced at €19.
A Destination for Wine Enthusiasts
As the Mystes Winery continues to evolve, it has become a sought-after destination for wine lovers looking for unique and delicious offerings. Visitors are often enchanted not only by the wines but also by the delightful cheese and charcuterie platters prepared by Loucas’ wife, Dia, during tastings.
For those seeking a genuine taste of Cypriot winemaking, Mystes Winery is a must-visit. The combination of breathtaking surroundings, passionate craftsmanship, and innovative wines makes each visit a memorable experience.
The winery is located at Pano Archimandrita, and you can reach them at Tel: 99 261145 or visit their website at www.mysteswinery.com.
