One of the things you’ll probably want to do on holiday in Cyprus is have a few drinks – here’s a guide to what you’ll be letting yourself in for…
Beer – only Carlsberg and KEO are brewed on the island. They are similar in terms of taste and price, but KEO is at least a local company (selling everything from water to brandy). Either can be found in draught form in pubs, but you’re guaranteed consistent quality from the 330ml or massive 660ml bottles (the latter about 1.5USD in pubs).
Wine – some of it’s OK, but most is pretty ropey. Alkion (dry white) is decent value at 3USD in shops (from 6USD in restaurants), while Pachna is a tolerable red. Imported wine is readily available – at a price.
Zivania – made from the leftovers of the wine-making process, this is the local spirit – not for the uninitiated.
Brandy sour – this is THE drink on Cyprus – great on a hot afternoon. Recipes differ, but I tend to make it 1 part Brandy, 1 part lemon cordial, 5 parts soda water and a few drops of angostura bitters.