Sign up for our newsletter
Useful Cyprus Information Cyprus Government Websites Currency Converter Cyprus Property News Limassol Marina CyprusNewsReport.comA Traditional Cypriot Drink Called Zivania
Information for Cyprus Expats on the traditional drink of Cyprus called Zivania
Zivania is a traditional Cypriot drink named as the local firewater spirit that is made in the mountains of Cyprus. It is a distilled clear drink produced from the residue of grapes that were pressed during the wine making process and mixed with dry wines produced from the local grape varieties of Cyprus. It is, also, a 70% proof alcoholic drink that will burn the back of your throat once you have drunk it. It is best to just knock it back straight if you are drinking it without anything else added to it. To drink this it will literally burn your throat, but it’s best to drink it very quickly!
The History
Zivania was produced in Cyprus since the Republic of Venice ruled the island at the end of the 14th century. Since 2004, Zivania has been protected under EU regulations as a product unique to Cyprus. So, it cannot be produced in any other country and marketed under its name.
How is it Made?
Zivania is made from mature healthy grapes of the best quality. It is produced from pomace, the residue of grapes that were pressed during the wine making process mixed with high-quality dry wines, all produced from the local grape varieties of Cyprus. Zivania is exclusively produced by the distillation of the two indigenous varieties, namely Mavro and Xynisteri. Zivania may, also, be produced by other, either local or imported varieties, but the variety used must be distinctively indicated on the label, for example as Zivania Cabernet or Zivania Maratheftiko.
What is it used for?
Other than drinking zivania, the Cypriots use it for other purposes. It can be used to treat wounds, massaging sore parts of the body, as a remedy for colds, toothaches or as a warming-up drink during winter months. It can, also, be used for mosquito protection and for mosquito bites. It is good to drink if you have a sore throat. I tried this and it is very effective. It is drunk more in the villages on the Troodos mountains. In the old times, the main alcoholic drinks that Cypriots would have were wine and zivania. Sometimes, cinnamon was added to zivania giving it a nice red colour and a fine aroma and flavour.
Recommendation
This drink is not for the faint hearted. It is usually served in a shot glass and drank back quickly after dinner. Restaurants will serve it to you as a complimentary free shot. In my opinion, it will burn your mouth and throat, and it is not to be drunk slowly. This drink is not for me and it may not be for you, but it is worth trying just once. Have a glass of water beside you for afterward, as it will kill the burning effects.
© Denise Larkin email dee22063@hotmail.com
Part of a series for Drinks Famous To The Island Of Cyprus, see also:
More Cyprus Information
CYPRUS INFORMATION CYPRUS PROPERTY LISTINGS CYPRUS ACCOUNTANTS
CYPRUS LAWYERS BUSINESS PROMOTION SERVICE PRESS RELEASE SERVICE
FEATURED ARTICLES BUSINESSES FOR SALE PROPERTY FINDERS SERVICE
JOBS FOREIGN EXCHANGE UK BORN CYPRIOTS UK BUSINESS DIRECTORY
MARKETPLACE CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS DIRECTORY FEATURED BUSINESSES
