Commandaria

Commandaria is a sweet dessert wine produced in the Commandaria region of Cyprus. It is one of the oldest named wines in the world, with a history dating back to the 12th century. The wine is made from sun-dried grapes, which are then fermented and aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two years. The resulting wine is sweet and rich, with flavors of caramel, dried fruits, and nuts.

The main grapes used in the production of Commandaria are Xynisteri and Mavro. These grapes are grown in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains, where the hot, dry climate is ideal for producing sweet, concentrated grapes. The grapes are harvested late in the season, when they are fully ripe and have high sugar levels. The grapes are then sun-dried for several days, which further concentrates the sugars and flavors.

The main grapes used in the production of Commandaria are Xynisteri and Mavro. These grapes are grown in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains, where the hot, dry climate is ideal for producing sweet, concentrated grapes. The grapes are harvested late in the season, when they are fully ripe and have high sugar levels. The grapes are then sun-dried for several days, which further concentrates the sugars and flavors.

Commandaria is mentioned in the works of Homer and other ancient writers, making it one of the oldest named wines in the world. It was also a favorite of King Richard the Lionheart, who is said to have called it 'the wine of kings and the king of wines'.