Kyperounda Winery
Location
Popularity over the year
O atrakcji
Kyperounda Winery sits at around 1,150 metres in the eponymous Pitsilia village, making it one of the highest wineries on Cyprus and one of the highest in the Mediterranean. The estate was founded in 1999 (after a long period as a small-village producer) and built into a serious modern facility on the village edge. The altitude, the heavy granitic-volcanic soils, and the cooler microclimate define everything about the wines made here.
The grape focus is on indigenous varieties suited to altitude. Xynisteri is the calling card — Kyperounda's Petritis Xynisteri is widely considered one of the finest examples of Cyprus' native white grape, with the citrus and stone-fruit weight that altitude permits, partial barrel ageing, and a structure that ages well for several years (unusual for Xynisteri). Maratheftiko and Yiannoudi are the red grapes, alongside small plantings of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. The estate's Andessitis red is a Maratheftiko-Cabernet blend that has won regional awards.
What to do. Tastings by appointment in the cellar tasting room — modern, glass-walled, with views into the production area. The standard flight is 5-7 wines including the Petritis (often vertically — comparing several vintages is the educational moment). Tasting fees are around 10-15 EUR. The estate also produces a small range of fortified and dessert wines worth tasting.
Insider tips. Book in advance. The Petritis vertical tasting (if offered) is the high point — Cypriot Xynisteri ageing surprises most visitors. The estate is at altitude — bring a layer even in summer. Designated driver essential; the road back has switchbacks.
Combinations. Pair with Agros village (10 minutes — rose-water cooperatives and traditional bakeries), with Tsiakkas in Pelendri (15 minutes), with Machairas Monastery on the way back to Nicosia, or with a Mount Olympus drive. A full Pitsilia day.
Bring. A jacket (the village sits high), a designated driver, cash for direct purchases. When. April-October. Mid-September during harvest is the most active time. Kyperounda is the high-altitude specialist that proves Cyprus can compete at altitude with any small Mediterranean wine region — and a serious cellar worth the climb.
