2023 Vasilikon Winery, Xynisteri Single Vineyard, Kathikas, PDO Laona Akamas

Perched in the Cyprian hilltop village of Kathikas in Paphos,  Vasilikon Winery has been making wine since 1993. It’s run by three brothers—Heracles, Giorgos, and Yiannis Kyriakides—who turned their family’s vineyards into one of Cyprus’s most respected wineries. The vines sit at 650–700 metres above sea level, where the cool mountain air, limestone-rich soils, and sea breezes from the Akamas Peninsula give their wines freshness and character.

They work with a mix of indigenous Cypriot grapes like Xynisteri (their flagship white), Maratheftiko, Yiannoudi, and Morokanella as well as international varieties. Their vineyards are farmed sustainably—no herbicides, dry-farmed where possible, and all prunings are composted back into the soil.

The Xynisteri grapes come from Vasilika, a vineyard just outside the village of Kathikas, planted back in 1965. The old vines give the wine impressive concentration and depth. Half of it is aged in 300- and 400-litre oak barrels, adding subtle texture and complexity.

In the glass, it shows delicate citrus and soft floral aromas. On the palate, it’s refined and balanced, with a long, lingering finish.