Paros is one of the more fertile islands of the Cyclades. Amongst its produce is its wine (famous since ancient times) olive oil, cereals and fruits. In recent years the production of Parian wine, which is famous world wide, is on the increase, using grapes from local vineyards and bottled in modern bottling factories. Apart from farming, Parians also make their living from fishing and from animal farming. Nowadays tourism has changed the way of life but the local inhabitants still maintain their traditions. Olive trees and vines continue to bear fruit, fresh fish with its delightful aroma still adorns the Parian dinner table and the local cheese is a gastronomic experience
WINE AND WINERIES Paros is one of the larger of a constellation of Islands known as the Kyklades in the central Aegean. According to Lambert-Gocs,
The largest of two producers on the island is the local Paros cooperative, who were instrumental in establishing the island's appellation. The other, Manolis Moraïtis, has aimed at producing a premium-level portfolio, focusing much of his effort on exploring the potential of high-elevation (400-500 meters) mono-varietal Monemvasia. While Moraïtis produces respectable Paros OPAP reds, his Syllogi (Monemvasia from free-run juice of carefully selected grapes), a Monemvasia-Asyrtiko blend and a rosé from Asyrtiko, Monemvasia and Mandelaria have established his reputation as the premier winemaker of the region.
FOOD The food on the island of Paros is very similar to the other islands of the Cyclades with small variations and some local specialities. The specialities of Paros are:
The "Mizithra", a soft white cheese made from goat milk that is used in the salads instead of the feta.
The "Gouna" is mackerel fish dried under the sun and served grilled.
The traditional Petimezinia sweets and the pumpkin pie.
Paros is one of the more fertile islands of the Cyclades. Amongst its produce is its wine (famous since ancient times) olive oil, cereals and fruits. In recent years the production of Parian wine, which is famous world wide, is on the increase, using grapes from local vineyards and bottled in modern bottling factories. Apart from farming, Parians also make their living from fishing and from animal farming.