Dreaming of a red Christmas is easy when you have an array of exquisite wines from Cyprus at your disposal. This festive season is the perfect opportunity to explore and indulge in the rich flavours of Cypriot red wines, making them an essential part of your Christmas menu. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening with family, these selections promise to elevate your festive experience.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Red christmas: Wines from Noble Varieties
2024 Tsiakkas Winery Merlot, P.G.I. Lemesos, ABV 14.5%
Crafted from high altitude vineyards around the village of Agros, this captivating Merlot reflects the diverse terroir of Cyprus. With velvety tannins and lively acidity, it showcases luxurious layers of plum, candied black cherry, summer red berries, and dark chocolate. Hints of liquorice, black pepper, and sweet baking spices add complexity, culminating in a lush, lingering finish. This wine pairs beautifully with grilled ribeye or tortellini filled with mincemeat and tomato sauce, making it a delightful choice for festive feasting. Priced at €13.50 from Oenus.
2022 Kalamos Winery Merlot, P.G.I. Pafos, ABV 14%
As the flagship wine of the Kalamos winery, this Merlot boasts a dark ruby colour and an inviting bouquet of raspberry, cranberry, and wild currants. Its light, medium-bodied character is complemented by a silky-smooth texture and a dense concentration of flavours. Hints of white pepper and oregano emerge, making it a versatile pairing for roast goose or vegetable lasagna. Available for €10.00 at Cavaway.
2023 Kyperounda Winery Skopos, Shiraz, P.G.I. Lemesos, ABV 13%
This Shiraz offers a decadent bouquet of crushed raspberries and blackberries, with an intriguing mix of berry compote and sage. Firm tannins and persistent flavours of sweet plum and muddled blackberry make it a rich addition to any meal. Decant and serve it alongside a well-marbled grilled steak or hearty mushroom risotto, complemented by aged Cheddar or Manchego cheeses. Priced at €14.50.
2023 Kathikas Vasilikon Winery, Methy, Cabernet Sauvignon, P.G.I. Pafos, ABV 13%
With its deep ruby colour and violet edges, this Cabernet Sauvignon showcases aromas of black fruits, cherry, liquorice, and vanilla. The palate is lively and tangy, featuring cappuccino and chocolate elements that lead to a brisk finish. This wine makes an excellent companion for grilled pork chops seasoned with smoked paprika and cumin or dishes like braised short ribs and Osso Bucco. Available for €14.00 at Laiko Cosmos.
2021 Fikardos Winery Leonardo, Cabernet Sauvignon, P.G.I. Pafos, ABV 14%
This dark garnet red wine presents expressive aromas of redcurrant, cassis, and roasted red pepper, with a hint of menthol. The medium body and juicy acidity create a bold yet balanced profile, making it an ideal match for spiced lentil stew or grilled rack of lamb. Priced at €20.
2020 Vlassides Winery, Artion, P.G.I. Limassol, ABV 14.5%
Blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Shiraz, this elegant wine from the 2020 vintage is opaque ruby-purple in colour. Aromas of blackcurrant, wild strawberry, and hints of mocha enchant the senses. The refined tannins and mouthwatering acidity make it perfect for pairing with magret of duck, Cêpes mushrooms, and chestnuts. Available for €25.00.
2021 Gerolemo Winery, Yerambellos Mataro-Shiraz-Cabernet Sauvignon, P.G.I. Limassol, ABV 14%
This red garnet wine exhibits fresh juicy black fruits complemented by hints of bouquet garni and subtle oak spice. Its richly textured tannins support a plush fruit core, while concentrated flavours of blackberries and savoury tomato notes create a classic warm climate Cabernet. It pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops and is priced at €12.00 from Cavaway.
Autochthonous Varieties
2023 Zambartas Winery Maratheftiko, P.G.I. Lemesos, ABV 15%
This wine is a true expression of the indigenous Maratheftiko grape, aged for 12 months in French oak. With a deep violet hue, it offers intense aromas of violets, wild blackberries, and spices. The palate is concentrated and juicy, leading to an exceptionally long finish, making it an excellent choice for baked lamb with feta and oregano or Moroccan beef kofta. Priced at €13.75 from Vassos Eliades.
2024 Tsangarides Winery Angel’s Red Maratheftiko – Xynisteri, P.G.I. Pafos, ABV 13.5%
This wine, with its dark cherry colour, is rich and muscular yet wonderfully balanced. It features big tannins and deep flavours of cherry, blueberries, and nuances of spice. The long aftertaste echoes with juicy fruit, making it a delightful companion for festive meals. Available for €15.00 at Tempo.
2021 Nelion Winery Maratheftiko, P.G.I. Pafos, ABV 14%
Offering an intense bouquet of flavours reminiscent of pepper, vanilla, and smoke, this wine is well-structured with pleasant acidity. Its medium body and refined toasty oak finish make it suitable for pairing with hearty dishes. Priced at €20.00 from Tempo.
2021 Kyperinos Maratheftiko, P.G.I. Lemesos, ABV 14%
This expressive Maratheftiko reveals opulent aromatics of dark cherry and blackberry, with a rich texture laced with notes of dark chocolate and plum. It pairs perfectly with the beloved Cypriot dish, lamb Souvla, and is priced at €17.00 from Cavaway.
With these splendid options, your red Christmas is sure to be a memorable one, sprinkled with the unique flavours of Cyprus. Each bottle tells a story of the land and its heritage, making every sip a celebration of the season.
