Cyprus is one of the world’s oldest winemaking regions. Its wine history runs so deep that it is mentioned in the works of Homer, while local winemaking traditions date back more than 6,000 years. The island’s vineyards, like the myths of Dionysus, preserve the memory of the past and continue to inspire the future.
Wine in Myth and Archaeology
According to archaeological evidence, winemaking in Cyprus has existed for more than 5,500 years. In 2005, archaeologists discovered fragments of round clay vessels from the Chalcolithic period containing traces of tartaric acid — a natural component of wine. This finding confirmed that these vessels were used to store wine.
In ancient times, Cypriot wine was highly prized. Greek poets Homer and Hesiod praised its quality, and for centuries it remained a symbol of the island’s culture and craftsmanship.
Commandaria: The Crusaders’ Wine
One of Cyprus’s most famous and oldest wines is Commandaria — a rich, sweet dessert wine produced for over 7,000 years. During the Middle Ages, it gained immense popularity among Crusaders and was even mentioned by Homer and Hesiod. Today, Commandaria stands as both a symbol of Cypriot winemaking and an important part of the island’s cultural heritage.
Limassol Wine Routes
Limassol is the heart of Cyprus’s wine culture. The region is home to scenic wine routes that stretch across more than 20 villages and include 16 wineries, where visitors can taste local wines and explore the art of their creation. Many wineries are open year-round and welcome guests warmly.
According to TripAdvisor (2025), there are 28 wineries across the island open to visitors, making Cyprus’s wine scene vibrant and diverse.
Wineries Near Sunrock Residences
Residents and guests of Sunrock Residences can easily visit several wineries located just 30–40 minutes away from the complex. Some of the most notable include:
Tsiakkas Winery — a family-owned estate known for its high-quality wines and traditional production methods.
Ayia Mavri Winery — located in Koilani village, offering a wide variety of wines and a memorable tasting experience.
Zambartas Wineries — a modern winery focused on organic viticulture and crafting wines with distinctive character.
Wine as a Way of Life
Winemaking in Cyprus is more than a craft — it’s a lifestyle, a reflection of culture and tradition. For residents of Sunrock Residences, enjoying local wines, exploring vineyards, and following the island’s wine routes is a natural extension of their connection to nature, history, and refined living.
