A Traditional Cypriot Alcoholic Spirit Drink Called Zivania

Zivania is a traditional Cypriot drink named as the local firewater spirit that is made in the mountains in Cyprus. It is a distilled clear drink produced from the residue of grapes that were pressed during the wine making process and mixed with dry wines produced from the local grape varieties of Cyprus. It is, also, a 70% proof alcoholic drink that will burn the back of your throat once you have drunk it. It is best to just knock it back straight if you are drinking it without anything else added to it. To drink this it will literally burn your throat, but it is best to drink it very quickly!

The History

Zivania was produced in Cyprus since the Republic of Venice ruled the island at the end of the 14th century and since 2004, Zivania has been protected under EU regulations as a product unique to Cyprus. So, it cannot be produced in any other country and marketed under it's name.

How Is It Made?

Zivania is made from mature healthy grapes of the best quality. It is produced from pomace, the residue of grapes that were pressed during the wine making process mixed with high-quality dry wines, all produced from the local grape varieties of Cyprus. Zivania is exclusively produced by the distillation of the two indigenous varieties, namely Mavro and Xynisteri. Zivania may also be produced by other, either local or imported varieties, but the variety used must be distinctively indicated on the label, for example as Zivania Cabernet or Zivania Maratheftiko.

What Is It Used For?

Other than drinking zivania,the Cypriots use it for other purposes. It can be used to treat wounds, massaging sore parts of the body, as a remedy for colds, toothaches or as a warming-up drink during winter months. It can, also, be used for mosquito protection and for mosquito bites. Especially, good to drink if you have a sore throat. I tried this and it is very effective. It is drunk more in the villages on the Troodos mountains. In the old times, the main alcoholic drinks that Cypriots drank was wine and zivania. Sometimes, cinnamon was added to zivania giving it a nice red color and a fine aroma and flavor.

Recommendation

This drink is not for the faint hearted. It is usually served in shot glass and drank back quickly after dinner. Restaurants will serve it to you as a complimentary free shot. In my opinion, it will burn your mouth and throat, and it is not to be drank slowly. This drink is not for me and it may not be for you, but it is worth trying just once. Have a glass of water beside you for afterward, as it will kill the burning effects.