KEO

Numerous reports and historical documentation talked about Cyprus wines, their fame and reputation through the ages, the unique characteristics of the Cyprus vineyard, the Cypriots’ special bond with vineyards and wine… Cyprus winemaking was threatened with extinction. Be it the various conquerors of the island, the troubled and unstable political situation and mainly the lack of imagination and direction of our wine producers. This project started in the early 80’s aiming at the discovery, preservation and revinification of ancient and indigenous Cyprus varieties that where mentioned in scripts dating back to the middle ages. It was an immense effort to safeguard the Cyprus vineyard. KEO replanted those indigenous grape varieties. One of these, very well known varieties, is “Maratheftiko”. KEO is proud to say that it was during this research project this variety was brought back to life. Well aware of the problems and weaknesses of vine cultivation in Cyprus, the lack of imagination and the scientific administration of the vineyard, and having studied foreign vine cultivation (traditional and new), KEO designed the Mallia project. Having secured sufficient land and all necessary quality factors in Mallia, KEO planted local and foreign grape varieties in the are