Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou has praised the 800-year-old history of Cyprus’ famed commandaria referencing the sweet wine’s very first award all the way back in 1224.
She was addressing the Cyprus Wine Event at the 45th World Congress of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), which is taking place until Friday in Dijon, France.
“Wine has the ability to bring people together,” she said.
“It is more than a natural product, but a cultural link that fosters mutual respect and understanding between nations.”
She added that honouring wine is a way of recognising shared heritage and cross-border cooperation.
Panayiotou also underlined the significance of 2024 for the OIV, which marks its 100th anniversary and its relocation from Paris to Dijon.
“For Cyprus, this year holds special meaning, as it celebrates 800 years of commandaria, the island’s renowned sweet wine,” she said, recalling that it even earned recognition back in 1224 during the reign of King Philip Augustus of France, when it was awarded in a mediaeval wine competition, as recorded in the poem ‘La Bataille des Vins’ by French poet Henri d’Andeli.
The minister expressed her appreciation to the OIV’s director-general and the French agriculture ministry for their support in organising the event.
She also called Cyprus’ participation in the event “a significant moment for the country and a reflection of its commitment to the global wine sector”.
Panayiotou highlighted Cyprus’ contribution to the revival of French vineyards after the phylloxera crisis, a key event that led to the establishment of the OIV in Paris in 1924.
“Cyprus remains the only wine-producing region in the European Union free from phylloxera since the 1870s,” she said.
“We are very dedicated to the wine sector and actively involved in the OIV as one of its 50 member states. Cyprus has contributed technical expertise and engaged in scientific and diplomatic efforts to address evolving challenges in the global wine industry.”
Looking ahead, Panayiotou said Cyprus remains committed to supporting the OIV’s mission in tackling challenges such as climate change, sustainability, market dynamics and innovation.
She stressed the importance of international cooperation and trade among OIV member states.
She thanked the members of the Cyprus delegation for their dedication in bringing the three-day commandaria celebration to life in Burgundy, a region she called “perfect for celebrating wine”.
