Makarounas Vineyards: A Cypriot Winemaking Gem

Makarounas Vineyards, located in the charming village of Letymbou in the Paphos district, is a testament to Cyprus's rich winemaking heritage. This boutique, family-run winery carries a viticultural history spanning four generations. Established in 2016 by Theodoros Makarounas, who studied Oenology and Viticulture at UC Davis, the winery is dedicated to producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. Letymbou is situated in the heart of the "vine-villages," an area renowned for its long tradition of vine growing. Makarounas Vineyards stands out as the only winery in Cyprus that sources grapes exclusively from its privately-owned vineyards, ensuring complete control over fruit quality and enabling the production of distinctive wines. The vineyards cover 25 hectares at an altitude of 400-600 meters, benefiting from the warm Mediterranean climate and ample rainfall. The surrounding hills and unique soil composition of crystal gypsum, limestone, and quartz further influence the local mesoclimate, adding complexity to the grapes. The winery focuses on indigenous Cypriot grape varieties, including Xynisteri, Morokanella, Spourtiko, and Promara for whites, and Maratheftiko, Yiannoudi, and Lefkada for reds. These ungrafted vines produce wines with a strong sense of place. Visitors can explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy tastings of Makarounas's unique wines, often accompanied by local delicacies. The serene countryside setting, surrounded by olive trees and the sounds of nature, provides a tranquil escape.