Beer in Cyprus

Beer in Cyprus

Beer in Cyprus has a long history, dating back to ancient times. The island has a vibrant beer culture, with a variety of local and international beer brands available. This article provides an overview of the beer industry in Cyprus, including its history, popular beer brands, and the brewing process.

History

The history of beer in Cyprus can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who introduced beer to the island. However, it was during the British colonial period in the 19th century that beer production and consumption significantly increased. The British brought their brewing traditions to Cyprus, leading to the establishment of several breweries on the island.

Brewing Process

The brewing process involves several steps, including malting, mashing, boiling, fermentation, and packaging. Malting is the process of germinating and drying barley to activate enzymes that convert starches into fermentable sugars. Mashing involves mixing the malted barley with hot water to extract sugars. The resulting liquid, known as wort, is then boiled and hops are added for flavor and aroma. After boiling, the wort is cooled and yeast is added for fermentation. The beer is then aged, carbonated, and packaged for distribution.

Popular Beer Brands

Cyprus is home to several popular beer brands, both local and international. Some of the well-known local beer brands include:

• KEO - KEO is the largest and oldest brewery in Cyprus, founded in 1951. It produces a range of beers, including KEO Lager, KEO Stout, and KEO Gold.

• Carlsberg - Carlsberg is a Danish beer brand that has a strong presence in Cyprus. It offers a variety of beers, including Carlsberg Lager and Carlsberg Special Brew.

• Leon Beer - Leon Beer is a local Cypriot brand that has gained popularity in recent years. It offers a range of beers, including Leon Lager and Leon Weiss.

• Keo Gold - Keo Gold is a premium beer brand produced by KEO Brewery. It is known for its rich and full-bodied flavor.

Beer Culture

Beer plays a significant role in Cypriot culture, particularly during social gatherings and celebrations. It is common to find beer being enjoyed at local taverns, bars, and restaurants. The island also hosts various beer festivals and events throughout the year, where visitors can sample a wide selection of beers from Cyprus and around the world.

See Also

• Beer - An overview of the beverage itself.
• Brewery - Information about the process of brewing beer.
• Alcohol in Cyprus - A broader look at the alcohol industry in Cyprus.

External Links

• KEO Group - Official website of KEO Brewery.
• Carlsberg - Official website of Carlsberg beer.