Wineries of Northern Cyprus: Etel and Elfie’s — tastings, wine carnival, seasons, and gastronomy
The Mediterranean is the birthplace of vineyards, and Cyprus is no exception. Here, winemaking traditions date back to antiquity, and the climate and fertile soil make the island an ideal place for growing grapes. In Northern Cyprus, the winemaking culture is less developed than in the south, but it exists — and its representatives deserve attention.
In this article, you will find a brief overview of two wineries, tasting tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.
- Etel Winery
- Elfie’s Winery
- Frequently Asked Questions about Wines and Local Products of Northern Cyprus
- Tasting Tips
Etel Winery
Etel Winery is the most famous and commercially successful winery in Northern Cyprus. Its products are sold in nearly all supermarkets on the island, and the estate itself is a full-fledged complex: it features a restaurant, tasting room, walking areas, and a boutique hotel.
Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, as well as local indigenous varieties grown on the slopes of the Kyrenia Mountains. Approach: organic farming and minimal intervention in the fermentation process.
For guests: vineyard tours and tastings — individual and group. The standard set includes six samples, from light whites to rich reds. Price depends on the season; current prices are available on the website or by phone.
Elfie’s Winery
Elfie’s Winery is a cozy family winery near Kyrenia, focusing on authenticity and artisanal craftsmanship. They produce small batches of wine by hand and offer gastronomic walks through the vineyards and tastings with homemade snacks.
Elfie’s Winery — young winemakers. The project started in 2022 after the owners moved from England to Cyprus. The owners are Cypriots who had previously rented out their vineyards while living abroad, as constant care was required. Now, the owners manage the estate themselves.
Vineyards and Varieties:
- Area: about 4 hectares.
- South side: red varieties (including Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Grenache).
- East side: white varieties (including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay).
Technique: the winery has no specialized tanks or modern equipment. Work follows traditions dating back 600–8000 years: wines are stored in amphorae and harvesting is done by hand.
Winemaking Carnival: during harvest season, visitors are invited to join — helping with manual picking and giving guests the chance to immerse themselves in the process. Activities include grape sorting by variety, stomping in vats (reminiscent of the classic film "The Taming of the Shrew"), tastings from young wines to reserves, learning about Cypriot cuisine, fresh homemade bread, music, and dancing. Participation is paid.
Season: from mid-July to October. The season begins with Sauvignon Blanc, then Chardonnay; in August–September, red varieties follow — Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cardinal.
Weekly tastings (Thursday): introduction to the ancient gastronomy of Northern Cyprus. Snacks offered by the winery are rarely found in regular restaurants: wild artichoke roots, mountain onions, black garlic, mountain chanterelle mushrooms, and royal oysters. All baked goods are homemade using wheat grown on the estate; gluten-free options are available.
Tasting format: includes cold and hot appetizers and a main dish — meat with vegetables stewed in clay pots. Average price of a set in 2025 — about 2,500 TL.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wines and Local Products of Northern Cyprus
Which unusual local products can you try?
Northern Cyprus offers many gastronomic discoveries. Among them are prickly pear (cactus fruit) and delicacies from carob tree, from which syrup, flour, and even alcohol are produced.
What is the main gastronomic symbol of Northern Cyprus?
Without a doubt, it is halloumi cheese — the island’s calling card. It is produced both in large factories and on family farms.
Where to buy products to pair with wine?
If you plan a tasting at home, these are ideal:
For socializing with other wine and gastronomy enthusiasts, check the sections “Dating” and “Wine Lovers Chat” on the largest Telegram forum of Northern Cyprus.
Tasting Tips
- Book in advance — especially during peak season (July–October) and for Thursday sets.
- Choose a driver or arrange a transfer: tastings involve several samples.
- Clothing and footwear — comfortable if planning a vineyard walk or participation in “stomping in vats.”
- Payment — bring cash in TL; cards are generally accepted, but terms may vary.
- Allergies and gluten-free — notify in advance: Elfie’s offers gluten-free options.
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