Zivania is the traditional alcoholic beverage that Cyprus is famous for.
For those who need more details
Zivania, also known as “zeffir” or “kamandaria,” is a traditional Cypriot alcoholic beverage that is made from grape pomace. It is a strong, clear alcohol that ranges between 40-60% in alcohol content. Zivania has a unique taste and aroma that is distinct from other types of alcoholic beverages.
According to Cyprus Tourism Organization, “Zivania, the local firewater, is produced by distilling grape skins and stalks from local grape varieties, Xynisteri and Mavro, in copper cauldrons over naked flames.” This process gives zivania its distinct flavor and aroma.
Zivania has been a part of Cypriot culture for centuries and it has been used for both medicinal and recreational purposes. As noted by Lonely Planet, “Zivania, which can be distilled to an eye-watering 90 per cent alcohol, has long been revered by locals for its medicinal properties. It was traditionally used to treat ailments including toothache and stomach upsets, and locals still swear by it as an effective cold remedy.”
Here are some interesting facts about zivania:
- Zivania is considered a protected designation of origin (PDO) product by the European Union, meaning that only those produced in Cyprus using specific methods can be labeled as such.
- The production of zivania is a protected craft in Cyprus, and there are strict regulations that govern its production.
- Zivania is often consumed as an aperitif before a meal, or as a digestive drink after a meal.
- The traditional way of serving zivania is chilled in small shot glasses.
- Zivania is often paired with meze, a selection of traditional Cypriot dishes.
- In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in zivania, and many artisanal producers are now making small batches of zivania using traditional methods.
As described by the Cyprus Tourism Organization, “Zivania is Cyprus’ national drink, a flavorful, unadulterated schnapps, which carries the intense aroma of sun-baked grapes. Its potency varies between regions, but wherever you are, sampling a brisk glass of zivania is a must-do experience.”
Table:
| Alcohol Type | Zivania |
|---|---|
| Origin | Cyprus |
| Main Ingredient | Grape pomace |
| Alcohol Content | 40-60% |
| Traditional Usage | Medicinal and recreational |
| Protected Designation | Yes |
| Traditionally Served With | Meze |
| Resurgence of Interest | Yes |
In the words of Andrew Paul Wood, “It is all about tradition, doing things in the way they have always been done.”
Response via video
In the video “Cyprus Brandy Sour. The most famous cocktail in Cyprus.”, a bartender named Stelios teaches the audience how to make the famous Cyprus Brandy Sour, which was originally created for King Farouk to disguise his alcohol consumption as iced tea. The recipe includes Cyprus brandy, lemon squash, sugar syrup, soda water, and garnishes of lemon and cherry, and does not require shaking or egg white. The video host and Stelios enjoy the drink while toasting to the end of their holiday in Cyprus.
View the further responses I located
Cypriot Brandy Sour Widely considered to be the unofficial national cocktail of Cyprus, this distinctive mix of Cypriot brandy, lemon, bitters and soda water, combine to make a drink fit for a King!
The most popular alcoholic drinks in Cyprus are offered by every self-respecting cafe or restaurant:
- White wines for seafood or fruit dishes – «Tisby», «Aphrodite» and «White Lady».
- Pink wine «Rosela», amazingly setting off the aftertaste of Cypriot desserts.
- Red «Keo Claret» and «Othello», highlighting the Medium Rare level of real beef steak.
I’m sure you’ll be interested
Largely considered the national drink of Cyprus, Brandy Sours is essentially a cocktail made by combining a few ingredients like Cypriot brandy, Cypriot lemon juice, soda, and bitters.
- Brandy Sour.
- Cyprus Coffee.
- Commandaria.
- Wines.
- Zivania.
Brandy Sour. The national cocktail of the island is undoubtedly the famous Brandy Sour, and although it is also enjoyed in other parts of the world, the Cypriot version is unique for the Cypriot brandy used in it and its interesting, royal origins!