Understanding Green Monday in Cyprus and Seven Wines to Pair with Traditional Dishes

Green Monday, or Kathara Deftera, is a beloved public holiday in Cyprus that marks the beginning of Lent. It’s a day rooted in tradition, nature and fresh beginnings. Families and friends gather to enjoy picnics in the countryside, share seasonal food, and embrace a moment of calm before the fasting period begins.

Although the day links to fasting, the table is anything but simple. It’s a celebration of wholesome flavours, often centred on legumes, greens, tahini-based dishes and seafood. To complement these classic plates we’ve chosen seven wines that elevate the seasonal ingredients and bring a refreshing balance to your Green Monday feast.

Here is our selection for 2026, each matched with typical food you will find on the day.

1 White to Start with Fresh Greens

Techni Oinou Plano Malagouzia
A vibrant Greek white with aromatic notes and crisp acidity that pairs beautifully with spring greens, fava and salads.
Buy on La Maison du Vin

2 Light and Mineral from the Aegean

Gavalas Assyrtiko Santorini PDO
Assyrtiko brings saline energy and citrus freshness. It works well with tahini-dressed greens, marinated artichokes or grilled calamari.
Buy on La Maison du Vin

3 Classic Chardonnay

Chardonnay Ktima Katsaros
An elegant and balanced Chardonnay with gentle oak influence. Ideal alongside creamy dips, baked vegetables or richer seafood dishes.
Buy on La Maison du Vin

4 Zesty and Fresh Sauvignon Blanc

Techni Alipias Sauvignon Blanc Art Estate
Vibrant citrus and herbaceous notes make this a great match for green salads, green beans, broad beans and feta.
Buy on La Maison du Vin

5 A Rosé for the Whole Table

Techni Alipias Rosé Art Estate
Dry and refreshing with bright red fruit. Rosé is a wonderfully versatile wine for Green Monday, working with everything from salads to legume-based dishes.
Buy on La Maison du Vin

6 Red Wine for Hearty Flavours

Epilegmenos Reserve Nemea Parparousis
For those who prefer red, this approachable Greek red brings ripe fruit and gentle spice. Serve with lentil dishes, mushrooms, or tomato-based vegetarian stews.
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7 A Rich Red with Character

Anafora Limniona Wine Art Estate
A Greek native variety that offers depth and earthy notes. This wine complements earthy pulses, slow-cooked okra, and grilled aubergines.
Buy on La Maison du Vin

Whether you are preparing spicy greens, tahini-based favourites or simply enjoying a picnic with fresh bread and olives, the right wine makes the experience more memorable. These selections reflect the vitality of the season and the richness of shared moments around the table.

Visit our online shop to explore these wines and prepare your Green Monday menu with thoughtful pairings.