Zivania facts for kids

A special pot (kazani) used to make Zivania, found in Amiras, Crete.

Zivania (also called zivana) is a special drink from Cyprus. It's a type of pomace brandy. This means it's made by distilling a mix of grape pomace and local dry wines.

Pomace is what's left of grapes after they've been pressed to make wine. It includes the skins, seeds, and stems. In Cyprus, Zivania is made using grapes called Xynisteri and Mavro.

The name Zivania comes from the Greek word "zivana," which means "pomace" in the Cypriot language. Zivania is clear and has a light smell of raisins. It contains no sugar and is not acidic.

The Story of Zivania: How Old Is It?

No one knows exactly when Zivania was first made in Cyprus. Some people think the idea came from monks on Mount Athos in the 1400s. They made a similar drink called tsipouro.

Others believe Zivania has been made in Cyprus since the late 1400s. This was when the Republic of Venice ruled the island.

Since 1989, Zivania has been officially protected by European Union rules. This means only grape pomace spirit made in Cyprus can be called Zivania.

How People Use Zivania

Cypriots enjoy Zivania all year long. In the summer, it's often served very cold.

Zivania is usually enjoyed with snacks. These can include:

• Dried nuts
• Loukoumi (a sweet treat)
• Shoushouko (a traditional Cypriot sweet made from grape juice and nuts)
• Small appetizers like Cypriot loukaniko (sausage), lountza (cured pork), and tsamarella (smoked meat).

Besides being a drink, Zivania has other uses too! People in Cyprus have traditionally used it for:

• Cleaning and treating small wounds.
• Massaging sore body parts.
• A home remedy for colds and toothaches.
• A warming drink during cold winter months, especially in the Troodos mountains villages.

Pictures of Zivania and Its Grapes

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  A glass of Cypriot Zivania.

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  Xynisteri grapes are used to make Zivania.

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  Mavro grapes are also used in Zivania production.

See also

In Spanish: Zivania para niños