Cyprus has been producing wine for more than 5,000 years, but in recent seasons its vineyards have been capturing renewed international attention. At the heart of this revival stands Maratheftiko, one of the island’s most treasured red varieties and a grape increasingly seen as the country’s passport to the global wine stage.
Speaking at an event marking International Maratheftiko Day, Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry Giorgos Papanastasiou highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening the competitiveness and export potential of Cypriot wine. “We are doing everything we can to enhance the international momentum of Cypriot wines,” he said, describing Maratheftiko as “one of our most important red varieties, capable of standing proudly beside noble international grapes.”
A native grape that refuses to be ignored
Maratheftiko has long been a favourite among local growers for its rich fruit character, aromatic depth and distinctive personality. It is a grape that thrives in Cyprus’ mountainous vineyards and sun-drenched climate, producing wines that are bold, expressive and unmistakably Mediterranean.
In recent years, it has also become a symbol of Cyprus’ winemaking renaissance. Its quality, combined with the island’s dedication to high standards, has led to a wave of international awards and growing global interest.
Exports rising
The momentum is not only cultural but measurable. In 2024, Cypriot wine exports reached €1.3 million, recording a 3 percent increase compared with the previous year. These gains reflect both the growing trust of international buyers and the strategic efforts made by Cypriot wineries to position their products abroad.
“We recognise the strengths and competitive advantages of Maratheftiko and our other indigenous varieties,” the Minister noted. “This is why we are working intensively to enhance the export capacity and competitiveness of Cypriot wine.”
A strategy of openness
The Ministry has put forward a series of initiatives designed to help wineries become more outward-looking and more present in global markets. These include:
- Funding schemes for participation in international wine fairs
- Tasting and promotional events abroad
- Articles and advertising campaigns in specialised wine publications and websites
- Support through the Export Helpdesk, which connects wineries with importers in markets served by Cyprus’ 16 overseas Trade Centres
Cyprus has already taken part in major wine fairs this year, including Oenorama in Athens, Prowein in Düsseldorf, ProWine Shanghai, and the Map of Flavours in Thessaloniki.
Investing in the next generation of winemaking
The support does not stop at promotion. Through the Common Agricultural Policy 2023–2027, and in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Cyprus is implementing an investment scheme for the wine sector. The goal is to help wineries improve performance, adapt to market demands and strengthen long-term competitiveness.
“This is about consistency and a strategic approach,” the Minister said. “We continue to support the Cypriot viticulture and winemaking sector, highlighting the quality, tradition and uniqueness of our wines.”
Before concluding, the Minister thanked the groups Oenophiles Oino-Art and Oenognosia for their initiative to establish International Maratheftiko Day and for their ongoing work in promoting this emblematic Cypriot variety.
As global consumers increasingly turn toward authenticity, local identity and sustainable practices, Cyprus finds itself in a promising position. With grapes like Maratheftiko, Xynisteri, Giannoudi and others shaping a modern wine narrative, the island’s wineries are not just preserving tradition. They are redefining it.