THE WINE SCHOOL OF CYPRUS
A DEEPLY ROOTED VITICULTURE
Winemaking is deeply rooted in Cypriot culture. Several villages on the island have been growing vines for centuries. Many of these have gone on to produce unique quality wine products through the ages. Cyprus offers the world several unique wines and spirits. This is mainly due to its indegenous grape varieties that include the Xynesteri and Mavro grape vines.Â
THE VILLAGE OF VOUNI
One of the most active winemaking villages in Cyprus is the village of Vouni. Located on the southern foothills of the Troodos Mountains in the Limassol region, it has a long association with viticulture on the island. This village has managed to uphold winemaking using traditional methods. This has led to it being selected as the location of the first ever ‘Wine Sommelier School’ in Cyprus.Â
AN ACADEMIC PATHWAY
THE CYPRUS UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY has recently signed a cooperation agreement with the village of Vouni. This agreement paves an academic pathway for people wanting to become certified wine sommeliers in Cyprus. The agreement is a crucial component of the university’s strategy to improve its reach to remote areas of the country. The main consensus is that the partnership will also contribute to sustainable winemaking on the island.
A NEW SOMMELIER SCHOOLÂ
Elements of the agreement are thought to be crucial to preserving age-old customs. Although the traditions of Cypriot winemaking are to be upheld, the modernising of some production methods is to be incorporated by the school. It is also hoped that the Sommelier School will become pivotal for both the university and the local area. As well as its academic program, the school will actively aim to help further develop viticulture in the local area.Â
A NEW IDEA
A dedicated Wine Sommelier School in Cyprus is not a new idea. Its inception is thought to have been the brainchild of the NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES OF CYPRUS. Other wine sommelier schools operate on the island, but do not offer formal qualifications. The new school will offer this will be the first that will offer a recognised formal qualification and allow students to pursue a hands on career in the field.Â
AGRO-TOURISM
It is hoped that the introduction of the school will also strengthen the bond between the academic realm and the local community. The main aim is to create an environment that will allow education to integrate with local culture. Courses at the school will run for two years and result in an international recognised wine sommelier accreditation. The Sommelier School will also aim to elevate the quality of local life. It will aim to create new opportunities and boost the economic resources for viticulture and agro-tourism in the area. Â
