Grape Variety
Maratheftiko
"mah-rah-THEF-tee-koh"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Maratheftiko
Origin
Cyprus
History
Maratheftiko is an ancient red grape variety indigenous to Cyprus, known locally by several names, including Vamvakada, Vamvakina, Pampakia, Mavrospourtiko, and Aloupostaphylo. Traditionally, it was grown within vineyards of mostly Mavro grapes to improve the tint and body of Mavro-based wines. In the 1980s, with the revival of small boutique wineries in Cyprus, this variety was rediscovered, and its cultivation has been slowly increasing, offering a distinctive character to local wines.
Appearance
Medium to large berries with thick skins, exhibiting a deep blue-black hue when ripe.
Growing Traits
Maratheftiko is a vigorous variety but faces challenges due to its inability to self-pollinate, requiring co-planting with other varieties that flower simultaneously, such as Spourtiko or Xynisteri, to achieve fertilization and fruit development. This characteristic leads to inconsistent yields and susceptibility to millerandage, resulting in berries of different sizes and maturity levels. Despite these challenges, it is considered the best hope for Cyprus reds.
Wine Characteristics
Body
3/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
4/5
Acidity
4/5
Alcohol
3/5
Medium to full-bodied with a robust structure, offering depth and complexity. Typically vinified dry, though it can exhibit ripe fruit characteristics. Moderate to high tannin levels, contributing to a firm and sometimes astringent mouthfeel. Medium to high acidity, providing balance and enhancing its aging potential. Moderate to high alcohol content, generally around 13-15%, contributing to its richness.
Taste Profile
Black cherry
Plum
Violet
Chocolate
Coffee
Maratheftiko wines are characterized by deep color and rich flavors of black cherry and plum, often accompanied by floral notes of violet. Oak aging can introduce additional layers of chocolate and coffee flavors. On the palate, they exhibit moderate to high tannins and medium to high acidity, offering a balanced and robust profile with good aging potential.
Food Pairing
Maratheftiko's robust structure and complex flavor profile make it a versatile companion for rich, flavorful dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, hearty stews, and aged cheeses. Traditional Cypriot dishes such as stifado (stewed rabbit with onions) and lamb kleftiko complement its depth and intensity.
Growing Regions
Cyprus
PitsiliaPaphos (Panayia, Ambelitis)Limassol
Notable Wines & Producers
Maratheftiko Single Varietal
Zambartas Wineries
Vouni Panayia Winery
Maratheftiko Blends
KEO Winery
Fikardos Winery
Maratheftiko FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Maratheftiko?
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Cyprus
Is Maratheftiko wine full bodied?
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Maratheftiko has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Maratheftiko is Moderate bodied.
Is Maratheftiko wine dry or sweet?
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Maratheftiko has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Maratheftiko is Dry.
Where is Maratheftiko wine from?
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Cyprus
Where is Maratheftiko grown?
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Maratheftiko is grown in Cyprus (Pitsilia, Paphos (Panayia, Ambelitis), Limassol).
What is Maratheftiko like?
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Maratheftiko wines are characterized by deep color and rich flavors of black cherry and plum, often accompanied by floral notes of violet. Oak aging can introduce additional layers of chocolate and coffee flavors. On the palate, they exhibit moderate to high tannins and medium to high acidity, offering a balanced and robust profile with good aging potential.
What does Maratheftiko pair with?
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Maratheftiko's robust structure and complex flavor profile make it a versatile companion for rich, flavorful dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, hearty stews, and aged cheeses. Traditional Cypriot dishes such as stifado (stewed rabbit with onions) and lamb kleftiko complement its depth and intensity.
What does Maratheftiko taste like?
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Maratheftiko wines are characterized by deep color and rich flavors of black cherry and plum, often accompanied by floral notes of violet. Oak aging can introduce additional layers of chocolate and coffee flavors. On the palate, they exhibit moderate to high tannins and medium to high acidity, offering a balanced and robust profile with good aging potential.
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