The story of the Zambartas family in wine begins in the 1970s, when Akis Zambartas travelled to France to study Chemistry in Lyon and later Enology in Montpellier. When he returned to Cyprus, he became the island’s first university-educated enologist and began a long and influential career within the Cypriot wine industry.

Akis’ curiosity and scientific mindset soon led him beyond traditional winemaking. In the 1980s he embarked on a pioneering four-year research project across the vineyards of Cyprus, identifying and recording 13 indigenous grape varieties that had been largely forgotten. At the time, the significance of this work was not yet fully understood, but decades later it would prove to be a turning point in the revival of Cyprus’ native grapes.

In 2006, Akis realised his long-held dream of establishing his own boutique winery. Zambartas Wineries was founded with a clear vision: to produce expressive, high-quality wines that highlight the character and potential of Cyprus’ indigenous grape varieties.

From the beginning, the focus has been on thoughtful vineyard management, careful winemaking, and a deep respect for the land. Today the winery manages over 27 hectares of vineyards, both young and old, which are cultivated organically by a dedicated team. Many of these vineyards are located in the hills around Agios Amvrosios, where altitude, soils and climate contribute to wines with freshness, balance and personality.

Over the years, Zambartas Winery has grown steadily while remaining true to its boutique philosophy. The introduction of the Single Vineyard range and PDO Krasochoria range reflects the winery’s ongoing exploration of Cyprus’ diverse terroirs and indigenous grape varieties, allowing individual vineyard sites to express their unique character.

Today the winery produces around 150,000 bottles per year and has established itself as a respected and forward-thinking producer within the modern Cypriot wine scene. While the winery continues to evolve, its guiding principles remain the same: curiosity, quality, respect for nature, and a commitment to showcasing the distinctive identity of Cyprus through wine.

At its heart, Zambartas remains a family winery, one that believes wine is about connection, shared moments, and bringing people together around the table.

Marcos Zambartas

Growing up as the son of a winemaker, Marcos Zambartas was introduced to the world of wine from an early age. He first pursued his academic interests, completing a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Chemistry at Imperial College London. After several years working in the corporate world, he realised his true passion lay elsewhere, in the vineyard and winery.

Determined to follow that path, Marcos gained hands-on experience in Provence and New Zealand before travelling to Adelaide to deepen his scientific understanding of winemaking. At the University of Adelaide he completed a Master’s degree in Enology, an experience that shaped the beginning of his life as a winemaker.

Through his international journey, Marcos developed a strong understanding of modern winemaking practices while maintaining deep respect for Cyprus’ indigenous grape varieties. Curious and constantly experimenting, he is always looking for ways to improve, from the smallest details in the winery to exploring new expressions of local grapes. For Marcos, winemaking is not simply a profession, but a lifelong passion.

Marleen Zambartas

Growing up in the Netherlands, Marleen could never have imagined that life would lead her to a winery in rural Cyprus. While studying history at university, she joined an exchange programme in Australia, where she first met Marcos. The rest, as they say, is history.

Since then, Marleen embraced life in Cyprus and gradually immersed herself in the world of wine. With her natural warmth, excellent communication skills, and unmistakable smile, she has become a central pillar of the Zambartas brand.

Today Marleen manages the winery’s online presence and export markets while also taking care of the youngest generation of the Zambartas family.

Sebastian, Emilia & Alexandros Zambartas

The youngest generation of the Zambartas family is already growing up surrounded by vineyards and winery life.

Sebastian, born during harvest in 2015, shares his father’s strong character and curiosity. He is particularly fascinated by tractors, machinery, and everything happening behind the scenes in the vineyard and winery.

Emilia joined the family in autumn 2017 and quickly brought her own charm and determination to the winery. She moves around with confidence, flair, and a love for cuddles from the team.

The newest member, Alexandros, completes the trio and is already set to join the rest of the family in winery life. Together, they represent the future generation growing up alongside the vines.

Akis Zambartas – In Memoriam

Akis Zambartas, our father and father-in-law, founded Zambartas Wineries in 2006 and was one of the most influential figures in the modern story of Cypriot wine.

After a long and successful career in the wine industry, he decided to follow his dream of creating his own boutique winery. With incredible energy and passion, he built the foundations of the Zambartas brand and established a winery dedicated to quality and authenticity.

Akis also played a pioneering role in the rediscovery of Cyprus’ indigenous grape varieties. Beginning in the 1980s, he led years of research and fieldwork to identify and preserve local grapes that had almost disappeared. His dedication made an important contribution to the preservation of Cyprus’ viticultural heritage. Please read more about this project here.

We remain deeply grateful for the foundations he created and will always remember his passion for wine, his curiosity, and his love for Cyprus’ unique grape varieties.

We are fortunate to work with a dedicated and hardworking full-time team, alongside valued consultants who have supported us over the years. Together, we share the same commitment to doing things the Zambartas way, thinking differently, being proactive, and treating both people and nature with respect.

Just as importantly, we genuinely enjoy working together. There is always time for a good joke, and a strong sense of camaraderie makes the long days in the vineyard and winery all the more rewarding.

A special mention goes to the wonderful community of Agios Amvrosios. Many local people join us each year for seasonal work such as harvesting, sorting, and bottling, always bringing enthusiasm and a positive spirit. After all, it truly takes a village to make good wine.