Greece is known for its stunning beaches, idyllic islands, and sunshine all year round. Drinking is an important part of Greek culture, and there are many fantastic Greek drinks that the people of this Mediterranean country have been consuming for centuries. Here are some popular Greek drinks:
-
Ouzo: This traditional Greek drink is similar in taste to Spanish Sambuca. Ouzo is a grape-based liquor diluted with water and combined with aniseed, coriander, fennel, and other herbs. It was first concocted in 1856 in Greece’s Thessaly region, in the town of Tymavos.
-
Tsikoudia/Raki: This is a strong, clear, distilled spirit made from grape skins and seeds. It is similar to Italian grappa or Turkish raki.
-
Tsipouro: This is a strong, clear, distilled spirit made from the residue of wine-making. It is similar to Italian grappa or French marc.
-
Mastika: This is a liqueur made from the resin of the mastic tree, which is only found on the Greek island of Chios. It has a unique, sweet flavor and is often served as a digestif.
-
Metaxa: This is a brandy made from a blend of wine distillates, aged in oak barrels, and flavored with Mediterranean herbs and spices. It was first created in 1888 by Spyros Metaxa.
-
Tentura: This is a cinnamon-flavored liqueur that originated in the town of Patras in the Peloponnese region of Greece. It is often served as a digestif.
-
Kumquat Liqueur: This is a sweet liqueur made from the small, orange kumquat fruit. It is often served as a digestif.
-
Mastiha: This is a liqueur made from the resin of the mastic tree, which is only found on the Greek island of Chios. It has a unique, sweet flavor and is often used in cocktails.
-
Kitron: This is a liqueur made from the leaves of the citron tree, which is only found on the Greek island of Naxos. It has a sweet, citrusy flavor and is often served as a digestif.
-
Pistachio from Aegina: This is a liqueur made from the pistachios grown on the Greek island of Aegina. It has a sweet, nutty flavor and is often served as a digestif.
In conclusion, Greeks drink a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Some of the most popular alcoholic drinks include ouzo, tsikoudia, tsipouro, mastika, metaxa, tentura, kumquat liqueur, mastiha, kitron, and pistachio from Aegina.
