Xynisteri
75cl * Organic and Vegan * 12% ABV * Letymbou, Paphos, Cyprus
Makarounas Winery is a family-run estate located in the small village of Letymbou in western Cyprus, within the Paphos wine region. Though only established as a winery in 2016, the Makarounas family has been cultivating vineyards for generations, supplying high-quality grapes to other producers across the island.
The transition from grower to winemaker came under the guidance of Theodoros Makarounas, who returned home after completing his studies in viticulture and oenology at UC Davis in California. Inspired by a deep respect for his homeland’s native varieties and unique terroirs, he turned Makarounas into the only winery on the island working solely with fruit from its own vineyards. This estate model, combined with organic farming and low-intervention winemaking, is what makes their wines stand out.
The vineyards sit at altitude in Letymbou, where a mix of crystalline gypsum, limestone, and clay soils meets a Mediterranean climate moderated by elevation and sea breezes. Importantly, Cyprus has never been affected by phylloxera, meaning the vines here are ungrafted and many are over 100 years old. Farming is certified organic and vineyard work is manual.
The 2023 Xynisteri is made from these old, bush-trained vines, harvested by hand before undergoing spontaneous fermentation with ambient yeasts. This is followed by 3-6 months aging on the fine lees, with bâtonnage carried out twice weekly to build texture and weight. The result is a strikingly pure and energetic white wine. Aromas of citrus peel, green apple, and wild herbs rise from the glass, followed by a palate that’s tightly focused, saline, and mineral. Lees contact adds a gentle richness and roundness through the mid-palate, while vibrant acidity keeps the finish long, clean, and refreshing. No oak is used, allowing the expression of the Xynisteri grape and its rocky soils to shine.
This wine is a clear match for Mediterranean seafood and vegetable dishes. Pair with fish like salt-baked sea bream or cod with olive oil and capers, cheeses like an aged halloumi or young goat's cheese, vegetables like stuffed zucchini flowers or grilled artichokes, and mezze such as taramasalata, hummus, dolmades, olives and flatbreads.
Serve chilled. Drink now, or enjoy over the next 3-5 years.