This deep dive into Greek drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, presents a fascinating journey through Greece’s beverage landscape, highlighting the variety of options available throughout the country. Greece has a diverse palette—from ancient spirits and traditional wines, through innovative cocktails and artisanal beers, to various non-alcoholic concoctions.
Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Athens or the serene landscapes of the Greek islands, these beverages offer a taste of Greece, traditional and contemporary. >>>
1.) Greek Spirits
1.1.) Greek Liquor
1. Ouzo
- Anise-flavored spirit
Ouzo is Greece’s most iconic spirit, renowned for its strong anise flavor and the ability to turn milky white when mixed with water. This traditional drink is deeply rooted in Greek culture, often served with a side of small appetizers known as meze, making it a staple at social gatherings and family celebrations across the country.
2. Tsipouro
- Grape-based pomace brandy
Tsipouro, a popular Greek brandy, is made from grape pomace, offering a testament to Greece’s age-old tradition of winemaking. Distilled meticulously to capture the essence of its grape origins, Tsipouro can be enjoyed neat, with or without anise, and is a symbol of Greek hospitality, frequently accompanying hearty meals and communal feasts.
3. Metaxa
- Wine-distilled brandy
Metaxa stands out as a unique blend of brandy, spices, and wine, distinguishing itself from traditional spirits with its silky texture and aromatic bouquet. Originating in Greece, Metaxa is a versatile spirit, savored neat, on ice, or as a refined component in sophisticated cocktails, embodying a fusion of heritage and modern elegance.
1.2.) Greek Liqueurs
4. Mastika
- Mastic-flavored liqueur
Mastika, a liqueur infused with the resin of the mastic tree found on the Greek island of Chios, offers a unique pine-like aroma and a slightly sweet taste. This distinctive spirit is not only a favorite digestif among Greeks but also serves as a versatile mixer in a variety of refreshing cocktails.
5. Chios Mastiha Liqueur
- Chios mastic resin liqueur
Chios Mastiha Liqueur captures the essence of the mastic tree’s resin, exclusive to the island of Chios. With its distinct, crisp flavor and therapeutic properties, this liqueur is a testament to the Greek tradition of utilizing natural ingredients to create beverages that delight the senses and promote well-being.
6. Eliksir Mastic
- Herbal mastic spirit
Eliksir Mastic is a sophisticated spirit that blends the aromatic essence of mastic with a selection of herbs and botanicals, offering a complex flavor profile that appeals to connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Its herbal undertones make it an excellent choice for sipping neat or as a base for creative cocktails.
7. Tentura
- Cinnamon and clove liqueur
Tentura, with its warm blend of cinnamon, clove, and other spices, encapsulates the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. Originating from Patras, this dark, sweet liqueur warms the palate and the soul, making it a popular after-dinner drink and a comforting remedy during the colder months.
8. Kitro
- Citron leaf liqueur
Kitro, a prized liqueur from the island of Naxos, is made from the leaves of the citron tree, offering a citrusy and aromatic experience. This unique spirit reflects the island’s rich botanical heritage and is often enjoyed as a digestif, celebrated for its refreshing and slightly sweet profile.
9. Koum Quat Liqueur
- Kumquat fruit liqueur
Koum Quat Liqueur is a delightful representation of Corfu’s local produce, made from the small, orange kumquat fruit. This sweet and tangy liqueur captures the essence of the island’s vibrant flavors, making it a perfect addition to desserts, cocktails, or simply enjoyed on its own over ice.
10. Soumada
- Almond-flavored syrup
Soumada, an aromatic concoction derived from almonds, is a cherished traditional beverage in Greece, available in both non-alcoholic and alcoholic versions. This versatile drink can be savored on its own for its sweet, nutty flavor or used as a delightful addition to various desserts and beverages.
1.3.) Other Greek Spirits
11. Raki/Tsikoudia
- Cretan grape pomace spirit
Raki, also known as Tsikoudia in Crete, is a potent grape pomace spirit that embodies the spirit of Cretan hospitality. This clear, fiery drink is central to social life in Crete, often served at the end of a meal or during festive gatherings, symbolizing friendship and celebration.
12. Honey Raki
- Honey-infused Raki
Honey Raki combines the boldness of traditional Raki with the natural sweetness of honey, creating a smoother, more palatable spirit. This fusion results in a beverage that is both warming and soothing, ideal for sipping on a cool evening or as a gentle digestif.
13. Patouda
- Fig spirit from Patmos
Patouda is a distinctive spirit hailing from the island of Patmos, crafted from figs to produce a sweet and nuanced flavor profile. This lesser-known Greek spirit is a testament to the country’s rich tradition of utilizing local fruits to create exceptional alcoholic beverages that reflect the terroir of their regions.
2.) Greek Cocktails & Mixed Alcoholic Drinks
2.1.) Greek Cocktails
14. Ouzotini
- Ouzo-based martini
The Ouzotini reinvents the classic martini with a Greek twist, blending the anise-flavored ouzo with vermouth to create a cocktail that’s both sophisticated and refreshing. Perfect for sipping on warm evenings, the Ouzotini is a testament to Greece’s ability to innovate within its rich culinary traditions.
15. Greek Mojito
- Mojito with a Greek twist
The Greek Mojito transforms the classic Cuban cocktail by incorporating Greek spirits like ouzo or mastika, adding a distinctive anise or mastic flavor. This refreshing mix of mint, lime, and soda, with the unique touch of Greek spirits, makes it a summer favorite in beach bars across Greece.
16. Ellinikos
- Ouzo with lemon cocktail
Ellinikos is a delightful cocktail that showcases the versatility of ouzo, combining it with lemon juice and a touch of sweetness to balance the anise flavor. This drink is a popular choice in Greek tavernas and bars, offering a light and refreshing option for cocktail enthusiasts.
17. Mastiha Spritz
- Sparkling Mastika cocktail
The Mastiha Spritz offers a Greek take on the classic spritz, using Mastika liqueur as its base, topped with sparkling water and a splash of lemon. This bubbly and aromatic cocktail captures the essence of Greek summer, making it a perfect accompaniment to Mediterranean dishes.
18. Metaxa Sunrise
- Metaxa with orange and grenadine
The Metaxa Sunrise combines the rich flavors of Metaxa brandy with fresh orange juice and a hint of grenadine, creating a visually stunning and deliciously layered cocktail. This drink not only tastes like a Greek sunrise but also beautifully showcases Metaxa’s versatility in cocktails.
19. Greek Caipirinha
- Tsipouro-based Caipirinha
The Greek Caipirinha puts a Hellenic spin on Brazil’s national cocktail by substituting the traditional cachaça with tsipouro, adding depth with its grape-based character. Muddled with lime and sugar, this version retains the refreshing essence of the original while introducing a distinct Greek flair.
2.2.) Hot Greek Alcoholic Beverages
20. Rakomelo
- Honey and spice-infused raki
Rakomelo is a comforting Greek honey drink made by blending raki with honey and various spices, typically cinnamon and cloves. Served warm, it’s not only a popular winter drink but also a traditional remedy for colds, showcasing the Greek penchant for combining pleasure with health benefits.
21. Spiced Wine
- Greek mulled wine
Spiced Wine, Greece’s answer to mulled wine, is a heartwarming blend of red wine infused with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel. Often enjoyed during the winter months, this aromatic beverage is a festive staple, embodying the warmth and hospitality of Greek culture.
22. Greek Hot Toddy
- Warm, spiced Greek spirit drink
The Greek Hot Toddy adapts the classic toddy formula, incorporating Greek honey and spices with a choice of tsipouro or Metaxa. This soothing, warm drink is perfect for chilly evenings, combining the therapeutic properties of honey and spices with the comforting warmth of Greek spirits.
3.) Greek Brewed & Fermented Beverages
3.1.) Greek Wine
Greek wine stands as a testament to the country’s ancient viticultural heritage, intertwined with mythological tales and historical significance that dates back to the time of Dionysus, the god of wine.
Greece’s diverse climate and varied landscapes contribute to a wide range of unique wine varieties, each embodying the characteristics of its region. From the mineral-rich Assyrtiko wines of Santorini to the robust reds of Nemea’s Agiorgitiko grapes, Greek wines offer a palette of flavors that reflect the rich biodiversity and the winemakers’ skillful craftsmanship.
In recent years, Greek wines have surged in popularity on the international stage, celebrated for their quality, distinctive flavors, and the stories they tell of Greece’s rich cultural and enological tapestry.
23. Greek Red Wine
Examples of the most popular varieties of red wine from Greece:
- Agiorgitiko: Often referred to as “Nemea’s King” or “Blood of Hercules”, Agiorgitiko produces a range of styles from soft and fruity to deep, age-worthy reds, showcasing versatility and richness.
- Xinomavro: Hailing from Northern Greece, Xinomavro is renowned for its strong tannins and complex aromas, often compared to Italy’s Barolo for its structure and aging potential.
24. Greek White Wine
Examples of the most popular varieties of white wine from Greece:
- Assyrtiko: Known for its crisp acidity and mineral profile, Assyrtiko from Santorini is cherished for its ability to retain its freshness even in the island’s hot climate.
- Moschofilero: A fragrant, pink-skinned grape variety producing aromatic whites with vibrant acidity and floral notes, perfect for refreshing summer wines.
- Robola: An elegant white grape variety from the Ionian island of Cephalonia, Robola wines are known for their bright acidity and mineral undertones.
- Malagousia: Revived from near extinction, Malagousia produces aromatic whites with rich flavors of peach and herbs, showcasing the modern revival of ancient Greek varieties.
3.2.) Greek Beer
25. Vergina
- Premium Greek beer
Vergina is a premium Greek beer known for its quality and distinctive taste, representing the modern face of Greek brewing. It’s enjoyed for its crisp and refreshing flavor, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
26. Fix
- Historic Greek beer
Fix, one of Greece’s oldest beer brands, has made a significant comeback, offering a smooth and well-balanced lager that pays homage to the country’s brewing history while appealing to contemporary tastes.
27. Mythos
- Popular Greek lager
Mythos, a widely recognized Greek lager, is celebrated for its easy-drinking style and light, refreshing taste. It’s a staple in Greek bars and tavernas, embodying the casual, laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle.
28. Alfa
- Traditional Greek beer
Alfa is a traditional Greek beer with a rich history, offering a light and palatable flavor that’s become a part of Greece’s social fabric. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Greek brewing traditions.
29. Crazy Donkey
- First Greek IPA
Crazy Donkey, recognized as the first Greek IPA, marks a bold entry into the craft beer scene, offering a hoppy and aromatic brew that challenges the norms of traditional Greek beer, showcasing the innovation within Greece’s craft brewing industry.
30. Septem
- Greek craft beer
Septem is an award-winning craft brewery in Greece, producing a range of artisanal beers that emphasize quality and flavor. With offerings from pale ales to lagers, Septem represents the best of Greek craft brewing, combining tradition with modern brewing techniques.
3.3.) Other Greek Brewed & Fermented Drinks
31. Retsina
- Resinated white or rosé wine
Retsina is a traditional Greek wine that dates back to ancient times, flavored with Aleppo pine resin. This unique wine is a cultural staple, intertwining Greece’s rich history with its modern winemaking practices, offering a distinctive pine-infused flavor profile.
32. Krasi
- Traditional homemade wine
Krasi is the Greek term for wine, often referring to traditional homemade wines that are a staple in many households. These wines vary widely in style and flavor, reflecting the personal touch of each producer and the rich winemaking tradition that permeates Greek culture.
33. Psinthos
- Barley-based traditional beer
Psinthos is a traditional beer from Rhodes, made with barley and often flavored with local honey. This artisanal brew is a nod to ancient brewing methods, offering a glimpse into the rustic and communal aspects of Greek beverage culture.
4.) Greek Non-Alcoholic Drinks
4.1.) Cold Greek Non-Alcoholic Beverages
34. Portokalada
- Traditional orange soda
Portokalada is a refreshing Greek orange soda, cherished for its vibrant flavor and sweetness. Made from sun-ripened Greek oranges, it embodies the Mediterranean’s sunny disposition, making it a beloved drink among all ages for its zesty and invigorating taste.
35. Visinada
- Sour cherry syrup drink
Visinada, a traditional Greek drink made from sour cherry syrup, is celebrated for its balance of sweetness and tartness. Often diluted with water or added to cocktails for a fruity twist, it’s a staple of Greek summer, offering a taste of the country’s rich fruit harvests.
36. Lemonada
- Freshly squeezed lemonade
Lemonada is the Greek version of lemonade, made from freshly squeezed lemons, water, and a touch of sweetness. This classic refreshment is a testament to the simplicity and purity of Mediterranean ingredients, providing a cool respite during the hot Greek summers.
37. Loux
- Popular Greek soft drink
Loux is a renowned Greek soft drink brand, offering a variety of flavors like orange, lemon, and sour cherry. Known for using natural spring water and real fruit juices, Loux has become a symbol of Greek refreshment, enjoyed for its authentic taste and quality ingredients.
38. Greek Iced Tea
- Herbal tea served cold
Greek Iced Tea, often made from native herbs like sage or mountain tea, is a rejuvenating beverage, served cold. This drink showcases Greece’s rich herbal tradition, offering a refreshing and healthful alternative to sugary drinks, perfect for cooling down and relaxing.
4.2.) Hot Greek Non-Alcoholic Beverages
39. Greek Coffee
- Strong, traditional brew
Greek Coffee is meticulously brewed in a special pot called a ‘briki,’ offering a strong, rich flavor with a velvety foam on top. This coffee isn’t just a beverage but a cultural ritual, reflecting the slow-paced, social essence of Greek lifestyle.
40. Louisa
- Lemon verbena herbal tea
Louisa, or lemon verbena tea, is a beloved herbal tea in Greece, appreciated for its citrusy aroma and soothing properties. This tea exemplifies the Greek tradition of utilizing local flora for health and enjoyment, making it a popular choice for relaxation.
41. Diktamo
- Cretan herbal tea
Diktamo, a rare herb from Crete, is used to make a cherished herbal tea known for its medicinal qualities. Revered in Greek mythology and medicine, this tea is a link to the ancient wisdom of natural healing, offering a unique taste of Crete’s botanical heritage.
42. Greek Mountain Tea
- Sideritis plant tea
Greek Mountain Tea, made from the Sideritis plant, is a staple in Greek households for its delightful flavor and health benefits. Grown in the rocky Greek countryside, this herbal tea is a window into Greece’s rich natural landscape, enjoyed for its comforting and healing properties.
43. Sage Tea
- Aromatic herbal tea
Sage Tea is a fragrant herbal tea enjoyed in Greece for both its flavor and health benefits. Known for its aromatic properties and potential medicinal benefits, sage tea embodies the Greek tradition of integrating the natural environment into daily life.
44. Chamomile Tea
- Soothing herbal infusion
Chamomile Tea is widely consumed in Greece for its calming and soothing effects. Made from the chamomile flower, this gentle tea is a testament to the Greek practice of turning to nature for comfort and wellness, making it a preferred choice for relaxation and tranquility.