Why Greek Spirits Deserve a Spot on Your Go-To Drink List
Greek spirits are perfect for anyone who enjoys unique, flavorful spirits. From the anise-heavy spirit of ouzo to the big, bold, warming flavor of tsipouro, Greek spirits bring you a little piece of Greek culture and Mediterranean flavors. They can be enjoyed neat, as gastronomic drinks, paired with Greek food, or in a mixology cocktail. Keep reading to learn why Greek spirits need to be on your top drink lists.
Some Traditional Greek Flavors
Greek spirits are unique; there is nothing quite like them, as their distinct flavors and aromas are rooted in traditions that date back centuries and are inspired by local ingredients. Here are a few Greek spirits you should try:
Ouzo: One of the more popular aperitif drinks, typically enjoyed neat, with ice, or with water. Ouzo pairs great with any seafood dish and is a drink that Greek tavernas are known to have on hand.
Tsipouro: Tsipouro is a distilled spirit of grape and can be infused with anise or served neat or as a mixology drink. The aroma is similar to that of whiskey; however, it has a smoother, fiery warming quality and is typically enjoyed neat.
Mastiha: A liqueur made from Chios mastic tree resin, mastiha has a sweet, piney flavor that you have never tasted before, and it is wonderful in desserts.
Raki: The raki of Crete is a clear and grape-based spirit that is bold and capable of many uses, from serving it as an after-dinner drink to mixing it into custom cocktails.
Versatile Greek Pairings To Try
Greek spirits play a major role in mixology; they lend character to ancient and new-fashioned cocktails alike. This makes them a favorite among bartenders and home mixologists. Here are some ideas you can try out:
Ouzo Lemonade: Mix together ouzo with fresh lemon juice, honey syrup, and soda. The result is a cooling beverage on a warm summer day.
Mastiha Spritz: Combine mastiha liqueur with prosecco and a splash of soda for a floral, effervescent cocktail.
Tsipouro Sour: Shake tsipouro with lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white for a silky, tart drink.
Raki Mule: Blend raki with ginger beer and lime for a Greek twist on the Moscow Mule.
Visit Kaia in the South End for Greek Spirits
Are you ready to add some Greek spirits to your drink rotation? Of course, you are, and Kaia is your place to go for authentic Mediterranean mixology! We proudly offer sourced ouzo, tsipouro, mastiha, and raki directly from the best distilleries in Greece.
