Cyprus: home to the world’s oldest wine, Commandaria

Cyprus, known for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage is also the home to the oldest known wine in the world — Commandaria. Dating back over 5,000 years, it is a key part of Cyprus’ history and a remarkable symbol of the island’s ancient winemaking tradition. Its history dates back to the ancient Greeks, and it is thought that the Knights Templar, who improved the winemaking technique during the Crusades, made it.

Wine production in Cyprus dates back to around 2,000 BCE, according to archeological data, suggesting that the origins of Cypriot winemaking are even more ancient. The wine is still made in the area known as Commandaria, which is in a district on the southern slopes of the Troodos Mountains. Commandaria has earned its reputation as the oldest named wine in the world because of a unique blend of the island's mild climate, fertile soil, and traditional winemaking techniques. The process of making Commandaria has remained largely unchanged for centuries. It is regarded as the only wine with the oldest designation of origin still in production today, precisely because it was made in a particular location using a particular and unalterable technology.

In 2004, the European Union recognized the cultural significance of Commandaria by granting it Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) designation. This means that only wine produced in the Commandaria region is allowed to use the name. Until today, Commandaria participates in international wine contests on a regular basis, and it does win a lot of awards and makes an impression.

The Production Process of Commandaria

The production of Commandaria is a meticulous process that has remained true to tradition for thousands of years. The wine is made primarily from two varieties of grapes: Mavro (a red grape) and Xynisteri (a white grape). These grapes are grown in the unique terroir of the Commandaria region, where the soil is rich in minerals and the Mediterranean climate provides the perfect balance of sun and rain for grape cultivation.

The grapes are harvested in late summer, at the peak of ripeness, and then sun-dried on mats for up to two weeks. This drying process concentrates the sugars in the grapes, which is a crucial step in producing the sweet, rich flavor for which Commandaria is famous. After drying, the grapes are pressed, and the juice is fermented in traditional stone vats, a method that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries. The fermentation process is slow and controlled, allowing the wine to develop its complex flavor profile.

Once the wine is fermented, it is aged in oak barrels for several years, sometimes even decades. The oak barrels add subtle flavors of vanilla and spice, which complement the natural sweetness and rich body of the wine. The aging process also contributes to the deep amber color that Commandaria is known for. The longer the wine is aged, the more complex and intense its flavor becomes, with hints of dried fruit, honey, and caramel.

The vineyards of Commandaria, nestled on the southern slopes of the Troodos Mountains, benefit from a unique blend of fertile soil, Mediterranean climate, and centuries-old winemaking traditions.

Commandaria’s Unique Characteristics

What sets Commandaria apart from other wines is its unique production process, which combines both ancient techniques and the influence of the environment. The sun-drying of the grapes increases the sugar content, creating a naturally sweet wine that has a higher alcohol content than typical wines, often reaching 18-20%. The warm climate, combined with the mountainous terrain, helps create an ideal setting for the grapes to develop their full flavor potential.

Moreover, Commandaria is typically a dessert wine, served at the end of meals to complement rich desserts or cheeses. Its complex flavors and intense sweetness make it a favorite for connoisseurs who appreciate wines with deep, historical roots.

For those visiting Cyprus, tasting Commandaria is more than just a sensory experience—it is a way to connect with the island's rich history, culture, and winemaking tradition. Whether enjoyed during a visit to the Troodos Mountains or shared in the comfort of a Cypriot home, Commandaria represents an ancient tradition that is still alive and thriving today.