Zivania Cyprus vodka: what is it made of, famous brands and types + how and what to drink
Zivania - This is a traditional Cypriot grape vodka, which began to be produced in the XV century. In our country, it is similar to grape vodka moonshine, in Italy - grappa, and in France with brandy.
Briefly about Zivania
The strength of the alcoholic beverage varies from 45 to 49 degrees, and in the home-made version it can reach 55-70%.
Cypriots call this drink "fire water", and the secrets of its preparation are passed down from generation to generation. Since 2004, after Cyprus joined the European Union, Zivania has been protected under EU rules. And a drink produced outside the republic, even according to a traditional recipe, has no right to be called Zivania.
Zivania: what is it made of
As we have already understood, Zivania is made from grapes, but to be more precise, grape pomace is used to make it. Water is added to it, and a Cypriot drink is obtained by distillation.
The distillation process is not very fast, but the locals enjoy the ritual of making the traditional drink.
If you make Zivania exclusively from the grapes themselves, it tastes quite specific and without a pronounced flavor. Therefore, in Cyprus, natural flavors are often added to the drink: basil, cinnamon, honey, or figs.
Interestingly, the term "Zivania" comes from the word "zivana" - this is how grape pomace left over from wine production is called in Cyprus, and not from the grape variety of the same name, as many people are used to thinking.
In 1998, rules were developed that help regulate the process of making the drink itself, and if they are not followed, the company faces the loss of its license:
Before starting the production of the drink, the plant is obliged to obtain permission from the Ministry of Agriculture and some other authorities.
Key ingredients - ripe grapes and water, no sugar, chemicals or coloring.
The default grape varieties used are Mavro and Xinisteri. If any additional variety is added, it must be indicated on the label.
Famous brands and types of the drink
Probably in Cyprus, only the lazy are not engaged in the production of Zivania. Someone just does it on an industrial scale, and someone for personal consumption.
Currently, it is difficult to accurately calculate the number of companies and small farms that have received a license to produce Cyprus vodka. But we can list the key players in this market: KEO, LOEL, ETKO, Tsiakkas, SODAP or SODAP.
Zivania can also be divided into three types:
White - original taste, without any additives or impurities.
Red - a drink with honey, cinnamon and other spices.
Golden - aged for several years in oak barrels to saturate the drink with woody aroma and taste.
How to drink and where to use Zivania
In Cyprus, it is customary to drink a drink with ice. And along with it, a national set of various cold and hot meze appetizers is served, which can be served with cheeses, seafood, salads, vegetables, fish, meat dishes and local sauces. Zivania is also good for snacking on nuts and dried fruits.
Due to the rather high strength of Cyprus vodka, it is used as:
An analgesic, especially in the case of toothache.
Antiseptic, for the treatment and treatment of wounds.
A preventive remedy for colds.
Update: 07.02.2018
Category: Vodka an Moonshine