Zivania — traditional strong alcohol of Cyprus

If you love wine, you have probably heard of the legendary Commandaria. If not — we recommend reading about the history of this drink separately. Among strong alcohol in Cyprus, no less important is zivania — a traditional grape distillate with a centuries-old history.

• What is zivania
• History of zivania
• Zivania strength
• How to drink zivania
• Frequently asked questions about zivania

What is zivania

Zivania is a traditional strong alcoholic beverage from Cyprus, produced by distilling the grape pomace left after wine production. The pomace is mixed with dry wine and then distilled.

The drink has geographical protection: only alcohol produced in Cyprus can be called zivania, even if a similar technique is used elsewhere.

Main types of zivania:

• clear — classic, without additives
• red or pink — with added spices, most often cinnamon
• golden — aged in barrels, usually oak

History of zivania

Zivania is often compared to Italian grappa — and for good reason. Essentially, it is the same type of grape distillate. It is believed that the distillation technique was brought to Cypriots by Italians during the Venetian Republic era.

Production of zivania in Cyprus began around the late 14th century and continued even during Ottoman and British rule.

• Interesting fact: In 1949, the British authorities banned the production of zivania to promote their own alcohol. As a result, the drink became underground until the decolonization of the island.

Zivania strength

In terms of strength, zivania surpasses even traditional vodka. Officially sold, the drink has an alcohol content of about 45 degrees, as it is artificially limited during production.

At home, the strength can reach 70 degrees.

• Interesting fact: at the Kykkos Monastery, monks produce zivania with a strength of about 50 degrees.

How to drink zivania

Zivania is served chilled and neat. Traditional snacks include almonds, walnuts, loukoumi, soutzouk, and also meat delicacies: louza or Cypriot sausage. The drink is often served as an aperitif with traditional meze.

Beyond culinary use, zivania has been used domestically: for treating wounds, massages, colds, toothaches, and as a warming drink in cold winter months, especially in the villages of the Troodos Mountains.

Frequently asked questions about zivania

Where is the stress in the word “zivania”?

The stress is on the second “i”. The word comes from the Greek “zivan”, meaning grape pomace. It is not a grape variety, as often thought, but pomace.

What grapes are used to make zivania?

The traditional varieties are Xynisteri and Mavro, and mixing them is allowed. If another grape is used, it is indicated in the name, e.g., “Zivania Sauvignon”.

Who produces zivania?

Among large producers are KEO, LOEL Tsiakkas, SODAP, and ETKO. Zivania is also traditionally distilled in villages, especially in the Troodos Mountains. Even the Kykkos Monastery has its own production.

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