Zambartas Winery in Agios Amvrosios
Zambartas Winery in Cyprus, located in Agios Amvrosios is a true gem for wine lovers and anyone seeking an authentic Mediterranean experience. Set in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains, the winery combines family traditions, innovative winemaking techniques, and a deep respect for the local terroir to produce some of the island’s finest wines.
The Roots of Zambartas Winery
Marcos Zambartas founded the winery in 2006, carrying forward the legacy of his father, Akis Zambartas. Akis had long been a key figure in the Cypriot wine industry, playing a pivotal role in revitalizing local grape varieties. The family’s journey with wine began in the 1980s, when Akis worked with the KEO winery to preserve and revive native grapes, such as Xynisteri and Maratheftiko.
Marcos, who studied oenology in Australia, returned to Cyprus with a clear vision: to create wines that would not only showcase the unique flavours of Cyprus but also stand proudly on the international stage. From the beginning, Marcos wanted Zambartas Winery to reflect a perfect balance between tradition and modernity. With an understanding of the island’s indigenous grapes and international winemaking knowledge, he set out to build a winery that honoured both the past and the future.
A Unique Terroir
Agios Amvrosios, where Zambartas Winery is situated, enjoys a stunning location. The village, nestled at an altitude of around 800 meters, offers ideal growing conditions for viticulture. The Mediterranean climate provides ample sunshine, while the cooler mountain air tempers the heat, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavours. This balance between warm and cool influences contributes to the distinct characteristics found in Zambartas’ wines.
The soil in this region, composed of limestone and clay, plays a crucial role in vine growth. Its rich mineral content adds depth and structure to the wines. Zambartas Winery takes a hands-on approach in the vineyard, employing sustainable practices to preserve the environment and promote the health of the vines. By focusing on organic and biodynamic methods, they enhance soil vitality, ensure biodiversity, and minimize the use of chemical treatments.
Native Grapes and Modern Winemaking
Zambartas Winery champions the indigenous grape varieties of Cyprus. Xynisteri and Maratheftiko, two native varietals, form the foundation of their portfolio. Xynisteri, a white grape, produces wines with refreshing acidity and notes of citrus and stone fruits. Maratheftiko, a red variety, offers bold tannins, deep colour, and flavours of blackberries and spices.
Although the focus remains on these native grapes, Zambartas Winery also works with international varieties like Shiraz, Mourvèdre, and Cabernet Sauvignon. By blending these grapes with local ones, they create wines that showcase both the island’s heritage and a broader, global appeal.
A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
The winemaking process at Zambartas involves a blend of tradition and innovation. Hand-harvesting ensures that only the best grapes are selected, while careful vinification methods maintain the purity of the fruit. For white wines, they use cold fermentation techniques to preserve freshness and aromatic intensity. Red wines, on the other hand, undergo extended maceration to extract colour, tannins, and rich flavours from the grape skins. The winery ages some of its wines in French oak barrels, adding complexity and subtle spice notes.
The Wine Collection
Zambartas Winery offers a diverse range of wines, each crafted to express the character of the grapes and the land. The Xynisteri stands out for its vibrant acidity and flavours of green apple, pear, and citrus. This wine pairs wonderfully with seafood, salads, and Mediterranean dishes, making it a favourite for both locals and tourists.
The Zambartas Rosé, made from a blend of Shiraz and Lefkada, delights the palate with its refreshing berry flavours and crisp finish. The winery ages this rosé briefly on its lees, giving it a creamy texture without losing its lively character. This wine has garnered international praise for its elegance and balance, putting Cypriot rosé on the map.
The Highlights of Zambartas Red Wines
One of the highlights of Zambartas’ red wine collection is the Maratheftiko. Known for its intense colour and full-bodied profile, the wine reveals layers of dark fruit, spice, and a hint of herbs. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, game, and aged cheeses. Marcos and his team take great care to produce Maratheftiko in small quantities, ensuring that each bottle reflects the finest expression of this unique grape.
Zambartas Winery also crafts elegant blends, such as the Zambartas Epicurean, a mix of Maratheftiko and Shiraz. This wine offers complexity, structure, and a rich bouquet of dark fruit, spices, and earth. The winery reserves these blends for special occasions and releases them only in the best vintages.
A Family Affair
One of the most remarkable aspects of Zambartas Winery is the family spirit that runs through its operations. Marcos and his wife Marleen, originally from the Netherlands, work together to manage the winery, ensuring every detail reflects their shared passion for wine. Visitors often comment on the warm, personal touch that defines the Zambartas experience, whether during a tour, a tasting, or a vineyard walk.
The family atmosphere extends beyond the Zambartas clan. The winery has cultivated a loyal team of vineyard workers, winemakers, and support staff who all share the same commitment to quality and sustainability. Together, they create wines that not only delight the senses but also tell the story of Cyprus, its people, and its land.
A Must-Visit Destination
Zambartas Winery has become a must-visit destination for wine lovers visiting Cyprus. The stunning setting, coupled with the team’s deep knowledge and passion for winemaking, ensures an unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore the vineyards, tour the cellars, and sample a range of wines while learning about the rich winemaking history of the island.
Events Hosted Regularly
The winery regularly hosts events, such as harvest festivals and wine-pairing dinners, which attract both locals and international visitors. These events highlight the connection between wine, food, and culture in Cyprus, celebrating the island’s unique identity.
In conclusion, Zambartas Winery represents the perfect marriage of tradition and innovation. Through a focus on native grapes, sustainable practices, and family values, the winery produces wines that are both distinctively Cypriot and globally appealing.
