From Vine to Wine – Indigenous Grapes and Organic Wineries of the Paphos Wine Villages

This is more than a wine tour — it is a journey through landscapes, stories, and flavors that define the soul of Cyprus, crafted especially for wine lovers seeking authenticity and depth.

This curated wine experience takes you deep into the authentic heart of the Paphos wine villages, where family stories, ancient land, and bold local flavors come together. Designed for true wine lovers, this tour blends heritage wineries, artisan olive oil, and natural wellness, all enjoyed at a relaxed pace that allows every tasting to shine.

We begin our day at Tsangarides Winery, located in the charming village of Lemona. Established in 1997, this proud family-run winery is rooted in tradition while remaining open to innovation. Nestled among gentle hills, Tsangarides Winery focuses on indigenous Cypriot grape varieties such as Xynisteri and Maratheftiko, alongside carefully selected international grapes. With a philosophy of minimal intervention, the family allows the terroir to express itself naturally, resulting in elegant, approachable wines that reflect the calm, fertile landscape of the village.

Our next stop is Elaiones Stagona, a traditional olive farm where Cyprus’ agricultural heritage comes to life. Here, the olive oil tasting is intentionally placed before further wine tastings, offering a delicious and thoughtful way to warm up the stomach, prepare the palate, and enhance the flavors that follow. Expect earthy aromas, peppery finishes, and a deeper appreciation of Cyprus’ “liquid gold,” produced with care and respect for tradition.

The journey continues to Kolios Winery, an impressive estate set on a mountaintop about one kilometre outside Statos–Ayios Fotios village, on the road towards the Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery. This is not a small winery, but a visionary project with scale and ambition. Next to the winery, at an altitude of 3,000 feet, lie the family’s organic vineyards, including the largest organic Maratheftiko vineyard in Cyprus. The vines are cultivated without chemical fertilizers, insecticides, or herbicides, following natural methods in line with European organic farming standards. The combination of high altitude, abundant sunshine, light calcareous soils, and dry yet cool summers produces grapes of exceptional quality, with remarkable aroma, structure, and depth, showcasing the true potential of Cypriot terroir.

At Spring Of Life Forever Taverna, the wine experience naturally flows into the flavors of authentic Cypriot cuisine. Set in the peaceful village of Amargeti, this traditional taverna celebrates the island’s deep connection between food, wine, and a long, healthy life. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and time-honored recipes, the kitchen prepares classic Cypriot dishes that reflect the rhythm of rural life and Mediterranean simplicity.

Here, carefully selected local wines are enjoyed alongside traditional meze, seasonal vegetables, homemade dishes, and rustic village specialties, creating a warm and convivial dining experience. The combination of wholesome food, natural ingredients, and thoughtfully paired wines allows guests to slow down, savor each bite, and truly connect with Cypriot hospitality. It is the perfect moment in the journey to relax, share stories around the table, and experience how wine has always been enjoyed in Cyprus — not just in a glass, but as part of everyday village life. 🍷🍽️

The tour concludes at Vouni Panayia Winery, located at higher altitude in Pano Panayia and regarded as one of Cyprus’ most respected wineries. Benefiting from cooler temperatures and refreshing mountain breezes, the vineyards here allow for slow ripening and refined balance. The winery produces elegant, age-worthy wines that beautifully express their terroir, while strongly advocating for indigenous Cypriot grape varieties. Vouni Panayia plays a vital role in preserving Cyprus’ winemaking identity and presenting it to the world with confidence and finesse.