Tsiakkas Winery #199
Family and History – The Heart of Tsiakkas Winery
Tsiakkas Winery, founded in 1988 by Kostas and Marina Tsiakkas, is a testament to family, tradition, and passion. Kostas, inspired by his grandfather’s winemaking legacy, left a promising banking career to pursue his love for wine. Marina, initially drawn to fashion, embraced winemaking with equal fervor, becoming an integral part of the family business. Today, their sons, Orestis (oenologist) and Ektoras (viticulturist), lead the next generation, ensuring the winery’s legacy continues to thrive. From its humble beginnings producing 500 bottles of red wine, Tsiakkas Winery has grown into an award-winning family business with over 18 hectares of vineyards and an annual production of 200,000 bottles. The family’s dedication to quality and innovation has positioned them among Cyprus’s most respected winemakers.
Terroir and Vineyards – The Soul of Tsiakkas Wines
Tsiakkas Winery’s vineyards are nestled in the high-altitude region of Pitsilia, some of the highest in Europe, ranging from 700 to 1,440 meters. This unique terroir, with its temperate climate and phylloxera-free, ungrafted vines, allows for slow grape ripening, resulting in wines with expressive fruit aromas and bright acidity. The winery’s nine vineyards, spread across Pelendri, Agros, and other Pitsilia villages, are cultivated organically and harvested by hand. Each vineyard, from the steep terraces of Pelendri to the limestone soils of Vouni, reflects the region’s rich biodiversity and igneous geology. These vineyards are the foundation of Tsiakkas’s commitment to preserving Cyprus’s winemaking heritage while embracing modern techniques.
Innovation and Collections – Crafting the Future of Cypriot Wine
Tsiakkas Winery is a pioneer in reviving Cyprus’s indigenous grape varieties, such as Xynisteri, Yiannoudi, and Promara, while also excelling with international varieties like Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot. Their wine collections reflect this balance of tradition and innovation:Familiar: Reliable, approachable wines like Xynisteri and Porfyros; Autochthon: Celebrating native varieties, showcasing the unique terroir of Pitsilia; Noble: Highlighting international varieties that have acclimated to Cyprus; Ambassadors: Experimental and innovative wines, including oak-aged Zivania and Commandaria. Each collection tells a story, blending centuries-old traditions with contemporary winemaking practices.
Enotourism and Experiences – Sharing the Tsiakkas Legacy
Tsiakkas Winery is not just a producer of exceptional wines but also a destination for wine lovers. Visitors can explore the winery through guided tours, private tastings, and immersive experiences like the High-Altitude Experience, which offers panoramic views of Troodos paired with curated wine tastings. The winery also hosts events, from dinners and exhibitions to workshops and dance parties, creating lasting memories for guests. Whether enjoying a wine picnic on the terraces or building a custom tasting experience, visitors are welcomed into the Tsiakkas family, where passion for wine and hospitality go hand in hand.
