History of commandaria wine

Commandaria is a type of wine that is believed to have originated on the island of Cyprus. It is a sweet, fortified wine made from sun-dried grapes, primarily the varieties Xynisteri and Mavro. The name “Commandaria” is derived from the Latin term “Commanderia,” which was the name of a medieval order of knights known as the Knights Templar. These knights are believed to have introduced the wine to Europe during the Crusades.

The history of Commandaria wine is closely tied to the history of the island of Cyprus itself. The island has been settled for thousands of years, and wine has been produced there for at least 4,000 years. The ancient Greeks and Romans both had a strong presence on the island, and they are known to have produced and consumed wine.

During the Middle Ages, the island of Cyprus was ruled by the Byzantine Empire, and wine production continued to be an important part of the island’s economy. The island’s wines were highly prized by European nobles, and they were often used in religious ceremonies. In 1192, the island was conquered by the Knights Templar, who established a number of wineries and continued to produce and export the island’s wines.

The wine became known as Commandaria, and it gained a reputation for its high quality and unique flavor. It was said to be favored by kings and queens, and it was often given as a gift to important dignitaries. Over time, the wine became associated with the island of Cyprus and became a symbol of its history and culture.

Today, Commandaria is still produced on the island of Cyprus, and it continues to be known for its rich, sweet flavor and its historical significance. It is often enjoyed as a dessert wine, and it is also used in traditional Cypriot dishes. Although it is not as widely known as other types of wine, it remains an important part of Cyprus’s cultural heritage.

The post History of commandaria wine appeared first on Taste from Cyprus.