Press Release
The Gastronomos Quality Awards returned for the 11th year, shining a spotlight on the people who keep Cyprus’ food traditions alive, the farmers, producers, and small business owners who work with care, passion and respect for their roots.
Held on Wednesday, July 2, at the Strovolos Cultural Centre, the awards were organised by Gastronomos magazine and Kathimerini Cyprus. The annual event has become a key moment for Cyprus’ food industry, recognising the hard work of those who bring high-quality, authentic local products to our tables.
This year, nine awards were handed out, covering everything from traditional dairy products and extra virgin olive oil to locally produced wine and spirits. The winners stood out for their unique products, but also for their dedication to doing things the right way, often with limited resources and a strong sense of local pride.
Dozens of products were blind-tasted by experts: aged goat-and-sheep milk halloumi, traditional airani (a yogurt-based drink), Cypriot gins, and a wide selection of wines from native grape varieties, including whites aged in barrels, rosés, and reds made with Maratheftiko grapes aged for 3–5 years. As is tradition, past winners from the last three years weren’t included in this year’s judging, giving new producers a chance to shine.
One of the most touching moments of the evening was the honorary award, given to 15 pastry chefs from Nicosia with roots in the village of Kampi. They were recognised for their contribution to local culture through the art of pastry-making, a skill passed down through generations and one that has left a lasting legacy.
These awards aren’t just about taste, they’re about saying “thank you” to the people who protect the quality and authenticity of Cypriot food. They are the guardians of our culinary heritage.
This year’s Gastronomos Quality Awards were made possible thanks to the generous support of key sponsors who share a commitment to preserving and promoting Cypriot tradition. The Bank of Cyprus proudly served as the main sponsor, with OPAP Cyprus supporting the event as a champion of local culture. Sklavenitis stood behind the island’s producers, while EPIC lent its support to sustainable growth initiatives. Miele rounded out the list as a dedicated supporter of Cypriot cuisine, helping bring the country’s culinary excellence to the forefront.
2025 Winners:
Aged Halloumi Award: To Anoyrkatiko, Stalies Farm
Olive Oil Production Award: Litrondi, Analyontas Olive Mill
White Wine Award: Smileftis 2023 (Xynisteri), Gerolemos Estate
Rosé Wine Award: Nymphes (Maratheftiko), Ayia Ampeli Winery
Red Wine Award: Maratheftiko 2022, Zambartas Winery
Distilled Spirits Award: Siren Gin
Traditional Product Award: Airani, Achnagal
Special Award: Daniil Anastasi for bringing the century-old vineyard of Farmakas back to life
Honorary Award: 15 pastry chefs from Kampi for their contribution to Cyprus through their craft
