ATA GROUP TREAD CAREFULLY DURING TRIP TO MEHMETÇİK
MEMBERS of the Anglo Turkish Association of Northern Cyprus (ATA) and their guests spent last Sunday learning “all about grapes and what can be made from them” during a visit to the Çelebi Garden Hotel in Mehmetçik.
They were “put to work picking grapes in the vineyards, treading grapes, and distilling grapes before they were allowed to taste the fruits of their labours,” the ATA said.
They also learned from the hotel’s general manager Buse Çelebi about the history of locally produced alcoholic beverages made using grapes such as wine and zivaniya, as well as sucuk, a grape-based delicacy.
The group also had the opportunity to taste “these and many other products” before tucking into an “exceptional meal” at the hotel.
They then “strolled into Mehmetçik village centre to take part in the Mehmetçik Grape Festival”.
ATA member Barbara Johnson said: “I can’t believe I’ve treaded grapes to make wine. Not only have l had a great fun day
and eaten some outstanding food, I’ve
also learnt so much about a part of Cyprus I didn’t really know before. Today is one of the reasons why I’m an ATA member!”
ATA chairman Philip Lloyd said: “This visit to Çelebi Garden Hotel and its vineyards is just another example of the ATA enjoying themselves whilst at the same time raising money for local good causes.
“ATA members have not only had a day which will live in their memories for a very long time but have raised money to provide another local primary school with a well-wanted climbing frame.
“ATA events like this one, which was sold out in less than an hour of members being informed, is just one of the reasons why its membership is growing at such a rapid rate.”