Zivania Aged 10 years – Tsiakkas Winery

Zivania is a traditional Cypriot pomace brandy made by distilling a blend of grape pomace and local dry wines, specifically Xynisteri and Mavro grapes. Here are some key facts about Zivania:

• Zivania is derived from the Greek word “zivana,” which means pomace in the Cypriot dialect.
• It is colorless, alcoholic, and has a light aroma of raisins.
• The alcohol content of Zivania can vary, with 45% by volume being the typical value. By law, it should not exceed 60% alcohol content.
• Zivania does not contain any sugars and has no acidity.
• The Tsiakkas Winery Aged Zivania obtains its color by aging in commandaria (sweet wine oak barrels) for 10 years before bottling.

History:

• The exact origins of Zivania in Cyprus are unclear, with some theories suggesting that it was introduced by monks from Mount Athos in the 15th century, while others believe it has been produced since the time of the Republic of Venice’s rule.
• Evidence of Zivania production can be traced back to the Ottoman and British rule of the island, as mentioned in writings by Samuel Baker in 1879.

Production:

• Zivania production begins with pressing mature grapes to obtain must, which is checked for the desired density using a Baumé hydrometer.
• The must, along with pomace, is then fermented in large containers, traditionally clay pots called pithos.
• After fermentation, the mixture is transferred to the main container of the still (lampikos) for distillation.
• The still is heated under controlled conditions to produce Zivania, with the first distillate having the highest alcohol content.

Different qualities of Zivania can be produced based on the pre-distillation mixture, including those made solely from wine, wine and pomace, or pomace, water, and weak Zivania.