Skip to content Skip to footer
Zivania

A Sip of Cyprus in Every Drop

Zivania is a famous distilled spirit made on the island of Cyprus, steeped in Cypriot folklore. It is not just a drink, but a rich and profound cultural memory that reveals dominant themes such as tradition and taste. With its unique flavor, velvety texture, and 45% alcohol content, Zivania is produced only from fresh local grapes and is therefore a virtual expression of the viticulture tradition. MEY ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE INDUSTRY LIMITED, one of the leading representatives of Zivania Production and Export, is proud to promote the tradition of this drink in international markets by representing both Zivania brands and private labels to customers worldwide.

Zivania is a high-alcohol, colorless, and sugar-free grape-based distillate that has been produced exclusively in Cyprus for hundreds of years. It is unique because it uses only grapes as a raw material and, despite being made from fresh fruit, it has a dried grape aroma due to its traditional fermentation and distillation process.

Zivania is a beloved tradition in the Cypriot world. It can be consumed both hot and cold, often served cold in small shot glasses called bodri, frequently accompanied by local delicacies such as grape sausage (soutzoukos), nutty sweets (pastelli), and sameralla, a Cypriot dried meat. It has a very strong flavor and pairs well with spicy dishes containing meat, dried fruit, and nuts; it is quite sharp yet classy.

Four Products, Four Different Experiences:

Othello Zivania Collection

MEY ICKI SANAYI LIMITED offers four different Zivania expressions to suit different tastes under the iconic Othello brand:

Looking to the Future: Tradition Meets Innovation

MEY ICKI SANAYI LIMITED is still evolving but remains close to its roots. We are diversifying our products, opening up new geographical markets, and investing in modern technologies to increase our capacity and product leadership. As Zivania expands into life as a global spirit, our mission or aim is simple: to bring the wonderful tradition of Cyprus, one bottle at a time.

MEY ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE INDUSTRY LIMITED:
A Reliable Zivania Producer and Exporter

MEY ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE INDUSTRY LIMITED is among the most skilled Zivania producers and exporters and has been a cornerstone of excellence in the alcoholic beverage market since 1975. Our company started beer production on dateable grapes, such as the Galatian grape, which is popular in the Galatian Valley. Over time, we have shifted our venture on fresh grapes to producing quality spirits.

MEY today has three modern distilleries:

  • Northern Cyprus Facility – The facility where Zivania and Cypriot Raki and all other alcoholic beverages are produced.
  • Manisa, Turkey – Specializing in Turkish Raki.
  • Edirne, Turkey – The company specializes in the production of quality wines.

All facilities combine the latest technologies and traditional craftsmanship to ensure that every bottle of Zivania reflects its continuity and origin.

From Local Legend to Global Icon

Zivania’s global journey began in the vineyards of Galatia and ends today in restaurants, duty-free shops, and international markets. Thanks to its high quality and excellent branding, Othello Zivania is recognized worldwide, much like the famous Othello Castle that gave the brand its name.

At MEY, as the producer and exporter of Zivania, we are honored to be the driving force behind this revival and to bring Cyprus-born Zivania to people around the world.

Zivania has received a Geographical Indication (GI) and is certified as a Traditional Specialty Product, forever linking its character to the island of Cyprus. The heart of its authenticity is Galatia (Mehmetcik), a village renowned for its 3000-year-old winemaking tradition. The vines from which these ‘signature grapes’ of Othello zivania are grown are located in the fertile vineyards of the Karpaz Peninsula, guaranteeing that each bottle is filled with the flavors of its birthplace.

Private Label Zivania: Your Brand, Our Craftsmanship

In addition to our own brands, we also provide Zivania production in the form of private label Zivania for clients who wish to promote their multinational beverage lines with high-quality production.

This service includes:

  • In-house recipe development
  • Bottle and packaging design
  • Compliance with international laws
  • Complete export documentation

Whether you are a small liquor brand or a significant player in the retail market, MEY can offer the structure and expertise to launch Authentic Cyprus Zivania under your brand

Commitment to Quality and Compliance

Sustainability and Responsibility

From land management to sustainability, we are strong advocates. We are concerned with:

  • Reducing waste
  • Reducing water use
  • Helping small local farmers and communities

We believe we can protect our environment and that the progress of our region does not conflict with producing a large number of exceptional alcoholic beverages.