Greece is a country that is associated primarily with ancient, magnificent architecture, delicious dishes, relaxation on sandy beaches, turquoise water and Zorba. Apart from that, Greece is also a producer of delicious alcohols.
What is drinking in Greece?
Most tourists know Ouzo, the local high-percentage (48%) anise. It is an alcoholic drink that changes its color to milky when diluted with water. Its addition intensifies the specific taste of this drink even more. It is often served with seafood or other expressive dishes, such as stuffed hot peppers. Interestingly, Ouzo can also be a great remedy for toothache.
Brandy, known as tsipouro, dating from the 14th century, is also extremely popular in this country. Reportedly, it was first produced by monks on the Holy Mountain of Athos. It is made from grape marc, i.e. what remains after wine production - seeds and skins. Currently, the most of this alcohol is produced in Crete. The drink is often served before or after the meal, as well as in hotels when welcoming guests.
When talking about Greece, one cannot forget about the wines that have been produced there for six thousand years. Try the Peloponnese red wines made from agiorgitik grapes. The spirits that are interesting in taste are also made from grapevines grown on Limnos. If you are a fan of white wines, you should go to the Epiros area. The close sister of Greek wine is the ancient Retsina, which can be found all over the country. It has a rather specific taste, as pine resin has been used for a long time to cork the bottles. It is slightly stronger and sweeter than standard wines and has a golden hue.
While in Greece, you cannot help but try Metaxa, a Greek cognac, which is a brandy variety with an admixture of wine. The base consists of red grapes of the Savatiano, Sultanina and Black Corinth species. This alcohol is enriched with herbal extracts, including anise. It owes its unusual taste to aging in oak barrels. Some of them remain closed for 3, others even for 12 years.
Greeks don't really like pure vodka, so they usually combine it with Red Bull, orange juice or lemon juice.
Do Greeks like beer?
Greeks are not big admirers of beer, they prefer other alcoholic beverages. But when it's hot outside and the temperature is around 40 degrees, nothing can replace it. This alcoholic beverage has a shorter tradition than other Greek alcohols - it began to be produced in 1864 at the Fix brewery (hence the name of the famous beer), and earlier it was imported from other countries. The most popular beer is Mythos - lager, with a bright color and a surprising, refreshing taste. Vergina beer and Voreia India Pale Ale, reigning in Macedonia, are also noteworthy. In Santorini, you should try the local Donkey Brewery.
Each of the Greek alcohols has something special about it and is a great complement to many meals. While on vacation in this country, it is worth trying everything, if the opportunity arises.