A Hidden Gem in Pelentri Village
Tsiakkas Winery, located in the picturesque village of Pelentri, Cyprus, is a standout in the world of winemaking. Established in 1988 by Costas Tsiakkas, this family-run winery has gained a reputation for producing high-quality, distinctive wines that reflect the rich viticultural heritage of Cyprus. The winery seamlessly combines traditional practices with modern techniques, resulting in wines that not only honour the island's past but also push the boundaries of contemporary winemaking.
Tsiakkas Winery Focused on Quality and Individuality
The journey of Tsiakkas Winery began with a simple goal: to revive the winemaking tradition of the Tsiakkas family, which stretches back several generations. Costas Tsiakkas, along with his wife Maro, took the plunge into the wine business at a time when the Cypriot wine industry was going through a phase of industrialization. Rather than following the trend of mass production, the Tsiakkas family focused on quality and individuality. They chose to produce wines that would tell the story of Cyprus through its indigenous grape varieties and unique terroir.
The Location of the Winery
Tsiakkas Winery's location plays a crucial role in the uniqueness of its wines. Perched at an altitude of 1,000 meters in the Troodos Mountains, the vineyards benefit from cooler temperatures and a longer growing season. These conditions, combined with the mountainous terrain and limestone-rich soil, provide the perfect environment for cultivating both indigenous and international grape varieties. The winery primarily grows Cypriot varieties such as Xynisteri and Mavro, alongside international varieties like Chardonnay and
Cabernet Sauvignon. The cool climate of the region allows the grapes to ripen slowly, resulting in wines with balanced acidity, fresh flavours, and elegant structure.
Focused on Indigenous Grapes
One of the most significant achievements of Tsiakkas Winery is its role in reviving ancient Cypriot grape varieties. The winery has been at the forefront of reintroducing the Maratheftiko and Promara varieties, which had almost disappeared from the island's vineyards. By focusing on these indigenous grapes, Tsiakkas has helped to preserve Cyprus’s winemaking identity and offer wine enthusiasts something truly unique. Maratheftiko, in particular, has become one of the winery's flagship varieties, producing red wines that are bold, complex, and rich in character.
Sustainability also lies at the heart of Tsiakkas Winery’s philosophy. The family has embraced organic farming practices, avoiding synthetic chemicals and fertilizers to maintain the natural balance of their vineyards. By encouraging biodiversity and using natural pest control methods, they aim to produce wines that are both environmentally friendly and true to their terroir. The winery's commitment to sustainability extends to its production methods as well. They use gravity-fed systems to move the grapes and juice through the winemaking process, reducing energy consumption and preserving the integrity of the fruit.
Guided Tours Offered to Guests through the Vineyards
Visitors to Tsiakkas Winery are treated to an authentic and immersive experience. The winery offers guided tours that take guests through the vineyards, explaining the unique growing conditions and farming practices. Visitors also get a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process, from grape harvesting to fermentation and ageing. The winery's cellar, carved into the hillside, is a fascinating blend of old and new, with oak barrels lining the walls alongside modern stainless steel tanks. Tastings at Tsiakkas are not just about sampling wine but about understanding the history, culture, and passion that goes into each bottle.
The Tasting Room
The tasting room, is designed with a minimalist aesthetic that highlights the beauty of the surrounding landscape, allows guests to enjoy a
variety of wines while overlooking the vineyards. Each wine tells a story, from the crisp and refreshing Xynisteri, a white wine with citrus and floral notes, to the robust and full-bodied Maratheftiko, with its dark fruit flavors and hints of spice. The winery also produces a range of dessert wines, including Commandaria, a traditional sweet wine made from sun-dried grapes. Tsiakkas Commandaria has received international acclaim for its rich, caramelized flavours and smooth finish, making it a perfect complement to Cypriot desserts or aged cheeses.
New Techniques and Blends
Tsiakkas Winery has also embraced innovation without compromising its roots. The family constantly experiments with new techniques and blends, always striving to improve the quality of their wines. For example, they have introduced amphora-aged wines, a nod to the ancient winemaking practices of Cyprus. These wines are fermented and aged in clay vessels, which add unique earthy flavours and textures to the finished product. The winery’s constant pursuit of excellence has earned it numerous awards, both locally and internationally, further cementing its status as one of Cyprus’s top wineries.
A Reflection of Cyprus’s Rich Cultural and Natural Heritage
Tsiakkas Winery has played a crucial role in putting Cypriot wine on the global map. The Tsiakkas family’s dedication to quality, sustainability, and the preservation of indigenous grape varieties has made their wines a reflection of Cyprus’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Wine lovers around the world now associate Tsiakkas wines with authenticity and excellence.
In recent years, the winery has expanded its offerings to include wine and food pairing events, vineyard picnics, and even yoga sessions in the vineyards. These activities, which emphasize the connection between wine, food, and nature, have helped to attract a diverse range of visitors. Tsiakkas Winery has become not just a destination for wine enthusiasts but a place where people can relax, learn, and connect with the natural beauty of the Troodos Mountains.
Conclusion
As the next generation of the Tsiakkas family becomes more involved in the business, the future of the winery looks bright. They bring fresh ideas and a modern approach while maintaining the core values that have made Tsiakkas Winery a success. The combination of tradition and innovation, along with the winery's commitment to sustainability and quality, ensures that Tsiakkas will continue to produce outstanding wines for years to come.
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