Maratheftiko (or Vamvakada) is a rare red indigenous grape variety that was only rediscovered thirty five years ago. This exceptional variety was always grown among other grape varieties and vinified with them to improve their colour and body. Maratheftiko never became popular with old-timers because it produced small yields due to a rare viticultural problem. Almost all grape varieties can self-pollinate which allows them to produce grapes with ease. Conversely, Maratheftiko finds it hard to self-pollinate because the male part of the plant is underdeveloped or doesn’t even exist in some cases. Today Maratheftiko is usually planted together with Spourtiko and Xinisteri. Both grapes flower at the same time, helping Maratheftiko with pollination, thus achieve fruit development.
Maratheftiko still represents only 7% of cultivated vineyards on the island but has become extremely popular among Cypriot winemakers and wine enthusiasts.
Maratheftiko grapes are medium to large and have a thick skin which gives wines a beautiful ruby red color, plenty of tannins and high acidity. Wines made from Maratheftiko can be distinguished by their dark berry and floral aromas.
Wines produced from this variety: Fikardos Maratheftiko
Xinisteri is an indigenous grape variety that has been growing in Cyprus for thousands of years. This is the most widespread white grape variety in Cyprus (28.5%) . It is cultivated all around Cyprus but it is primarily (50%+) located in the Paphos region. Xynisteri is one of the two varieties used in the production of Commandaria. Commandaria is a traditional, sweet dessert wine that has been produced in Cyprus for at least 2800 years.
Xynisteri is mostly cultivated in limestone soil and thrives even in the driest and hottest areas of Cyprus. The majority of Xynisteri vines are trained using the traditional “goblet” system. Xynisteri grapes can be oval or heart shaped, have a thin skin and are medium in size.
Xynisteri produces fresh, light wines with an alcohol content of around 11-12%. The main aromas found in Xynisteri wines are apple, stone fruit (peach and nectarines), citrus and floral notes.
Wines produced from this variety: Fikardos Xinisteri and Katerina
Yiannoudi is a rare indigenous grape variety that is only found here in Cyprus. Its grapes are round, have thick skin and produce wines rich in colour, tannins and acidity. A typical Yiannoudi has flavours of blackberry, dark cherry, blueberry and plenty of spices like clove, cinnamon, star anise. At the moment in Cyprus only a few wineries produce Yiannoudi and in small quantities. Cyprus is still rediscovering what this beautiful variety is capable of.
Wines produced from this variety: Fikardos Yiannoudi
