Troodos Mountains

Overview

The Troodos Mountains rise through the center of Cyprus, with vineyards planted on south-facing slopes between 500 and 1,400 meters above sea level. The higher elevations bring cooler nights and greater diurnal temperature shifts than the coast, helping grapes retain acidity while achieving full ripeness.

The southern Troodos foothills include the fourteen villages officially entitled to produce Commandaria, the world's oldest named wine still in production. The volcanic and limestone soils, combined with the altitude, give the region's Xynisteri and Mavro grapes the concentration needed for both dry wines and the legendary sweet wine.

Key Varietals

• XynisteriA crisp white that gains freshness and minerality at altitude.
• MavroA dark indigenous grape that concentrates sugars for Commandaria production.
• CommandariaA sun-dried sweet wine with dried fruit, caramel, and spice notes.
• MaratheftikoA rare red that appears in small quantities from mountain vineyards.