Commandaria is a type of dessert wine made in Cyprus, known for its rich flavors and history that stretches back thousands of years. It’s reputed to be the world’s oldest named wine still in production. Made from sun-dried grapes, often of the Xynisteri and Mavro varieties, Commandaria is a sweet wine with flavors of dried fruit, nuts, and spices. Its unique production process includes drying the grapes in the sun to concentrate their flavors before fermentation.
The wine growers in Cyprus are lucky; there is no phylloxera on the island so no grafting on American rootstock is necessary.
The grapes are picked very ripe, even overripe, and thus very rich in sugar. They are then dried in the sun for one or two weeks to further increase the sugar content. Then, the grapes are pressed and the must undergoes a slow and long fermentation, often during 2-3 months. Sometimes the winemaker fortifies it with grape spirit, but it is not mandatory. The wine is aged in oak barrels for at least two years. The alcohol content of the finished wine is usually around 15%. According to the regulations, however, the alcohol may reach 20%.
The wine’s fame has even caught the attention of historical figures; it is said that Richard the Lionheart praised this wine during his wedding in Cyprus, calling it the “wine of kings and the king of wines.” Produced in the region around Kolossi Castle, Commandaria has earned its status as a wine deeply rooted in the island’s history and culture. Its significance is not just in its longevity but also in its cultural impact: it’s more than just a wine; it’s a living testament to Cyprus’ rich history. Whether sipped as an aperitif or enjoyed with a dessert, Commandaria is a wine that tells a story in each glass.
