Promotion of the command in the domestic and international market, strengthens not only Cypriot products, but also the place itself and the winegrower of Cyprus, said the Minister. Agriculture: Promotion of the command boosts the place and Rural Development and Environment vintner Maria Panagiotou at a special wine event in Dijon, France, on Monday.
In her speech at the opening of the special event for the Commandery, the Minister mentioned that since ancient times the Commandery has symbolized the wine-growing tradition of our country based on many written historical reports.
He added that Commandaria, originating from the 14 communities of the geographically delimited area of Cyprus of the same name, exactly 800 years ago, won the first prize in the 1st recorded wine competition in France in 1224, under the reign of Philip Augustus.
"Commandaria, with its designated Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), is inextricably linked to our history and culture. That is why we are proud to be here today to showcase our wine heritage, which keeps alive a centuries-old tradition," he said.
In a greeting from the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Kostas Koumis, which was read by the official Elina Christofidou, it is stated that the Deputy Ministry recognizes the historical value of the Commandaria and has proceeded to develop a series of actions and initiatives, in Cyprus and abroad, to promote and internationalize the product.
In his greeting at the opening of the event, the Director General of the OIV, John Barker said that Commandaria is a wonderful wine that encompasses centuries of tradition, culture, know-how, very specific practices and special grape varieties.
"It is a special joy and honor for the OIV that Cyprus is celebrating 800 years since the awarding of this Cypriot wine on the 100th anniversary of the Organization's founding," he said.
During the special event, an anniversary film was shown highlighting the history, traditions and cultural heritage of wine.