This list represents a comprehensive collection of Turkish alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, encompassing a wide range of flavors and traditions. Each drink is a testament to the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Turkey.
1. Spirits from Turkey
1.1. Turkish Liquor
1. Raki
- Traditional Turkish aniseed-flavored spirit.
Raki, Turkey’s national drink, is a potent aniseed-flavored spirit, central to Turkish social and culinary culture.
Examples of popular Turkish raki brands:
- Yeni Raki: A renowned brand known for its balanced flavor and smooth finish, symbolizing Turkish hospitality.
- Tekirdağ Raki: A premium variant from Tekirdağ, celebrated for its unique taste from fresh grapes and aniseed.
- Efe Raki: Popular for its modern take on traditional Raki, offering a crisp and clear taste.
- Beylerbeyi Raki: Distinguished for its exceptionally smooth and refined flavor, preferred for special occasions.
- Meyan Rakı: Infused with natural licorice root, providing a sweet, earthy twist to the classic Raki.
2. Boğma Rakı
- Pure, unflavored, traditional raki.
Boğma Rakı is the unadulterated, traditional variety of Turkish Raki, free from any flavorings. It offers a clear, strong spirit experience, reflecting the original form of Raki before anise became a common addition. This variety is cherished by purists who appreciate the raw and robust character of traditional Turkish spirits.
3. Anasonlu Rakı
- Anise-infused Turkish brandy.
Anasonlu Rakı, known as Aniseed Brandy, is a unique Turkish spirit that harmonizes the robustness of brandy with the aromatic flair of anise. This spirit is a delightful blend, appealing to those who savor the depth of brandy and the distinct taste of anise, a beloved flavor in Turkey. Anasonlu Rakı is ideal for an after-dinner indulgence, showcasing a perfect balance of tradition and flavor innovation in Turkish alcohol culture.
1.2. Turkish Liqueurs
4. Salep Liqueur
- Creamy, orchid-flavored Turkish liqueur.
Salep Liqueur is a unique Turkish creation, derived from the tubers of orchids. It offers a creamy texture and a subtle, sweet flavor reminiscent of vanilla and almonds. This delightful liqueur, often enjoyed in colder months, is a fusion of traditional Salep drink and the art of liqueur-making, reflecting Turkey’s rich botanical heritage.
5. Hare Liqueur
- Carrot, saffron, and anise infused liqueur.
Hare Liqueur presents an unusual yet captivating blend of flavors – carrot, saffron, and anise. This distinctive Turkish liqueur combines earthy sweetness from carrots, a luxurious hint of saffron, and the aromatic depth of anise. It’s a testament to Turkey’s innovative spirit in creating complex and memorable flavor profiles.
6. Binboa Satsuma Liqueur
- Mandarin-flavored Turkish liqueur.
Binboa Satsuma Liqueur captures the essence of Turkish mandarins in a bottle. Known for its vibrant citrus flavor and sweet aroma, this liqueur reflects the rich citrus cultivation in Turkey. Perfect for sipping neat or in cocktails, it offers a refreshing and zesty experience, showcasing the versatility of Turkish liqueurs.
2. Cocktails & Alcoholic Mixed Drinks from Turkey
2.1. Turkish Cocktails & Mixed Drinks
7. Raki Cocktail
- Mixed drinks with Raki base, various recipes.
Raki cocktails encompass a variety of recipes combining Raki with ingredients like lemon, honey, mint, or fruit juices. These cocktails are a creative twist on the traditional Raki experience, offering refreshing and diverse flavors. They’re perfect for those who enjoy the aniseed flavor of Raki but desire a lighter, more refreshing beverage, especially in warm weather.
8. Istanbul Nights
- Raki-based cocktail with fruit juices.
Istanbul Nights is a captivating cocktail that blends Raki with an assortment of fruit juices. This drink captures the essence of Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife, offering a tantalizing mix of traditional Turkish flavors with a modern, fruity twist. It’s a popular choice for a relaxing evening, combining the cultural heritage of Raki with the freshness of fruits.
9. Turkish Delight Martini
- Sweet, dessert-like cocktail.
The Turkish Delight Martini is a sumptuous cocktail inspired by the famous Turkish sweet, Lokum (Turkish Delight). This cocktail is a blend of flavors like rosewater, lemon, and spirits, creating a luxurious and indulgent experience. It’s a popular choice for dessert or as a sweet end to a meal, combining the allure of Turkish sweets with the sophistication of a martini.
10. Anatolian Fizz
- Traditional Turkish sparkling cocktail.
The Anatolian Fizz is a sparkling cocktail unique to Turkey, often featuring ingredients like pomegranate juice, lemon, honey, and a splash of soda water, sometimes with a base spirit like vodka or gin. This effervescent drink is inspired by the flavors of Anatolia, offering a refreshing and slightly sweet taste. It’s perfect for those seeking a bubbly, light beverage that encapsulates the rich and diverse flavors of Turkey.
11. Ottoman Spritz
- Raki with sparkling wine and citrus
The Ottoman Spritz is a modern cocktail that combines the traditional Turkish spirit, Raki, with sparkling wine and a hint of citrus. This refreshing drink offers a fusion of East and West, mirroring the historical richness of the Ottoman era. It’s perfect for social gatherings, offering a light and elegant alternative to the more potent Raki.
2.2. Turkish Hot Alcoholic Beverages
12. Salep with Raki
- Warm, spiced blend of Raki and Salep.
Salep with Raki is a unique Turkish concoction, combining the warming properties of Salep with the robust flavor of Raki. This hot cocktail is perfect for chilly evenings, offering a comforting and soothing experience. It’s a traditional mix that showcases the versatility of Raki and the rich Turkish tradition of combining spirits with local ingredients for a distinctive and memorable drink.
3. Brewed & Fermented Alcoholic Beverages from Turkey
3.1. Turkish Wine
Turkey’s winemaking history is as rich and varied as its landscape, boasting some of the world’s oldest viticulture regions. From the rolling hills of Anatolia to the coastal areas of the Aegean and Mediterranean, Turkey cultivates an impressive array of indigenous grape varieties. Turkish wines, including Kalecik Karası, Öküzgözü, and Narince, reflect a blend of traditional and modern winemaking techniques, showcasing unique flavors that are gaining international acclaim.
3.1.1. Red Wine from Turkey
13. Kalecik Karası
- Fruity, elegant Turkish red wine.
Kalecik Karası is a Turkish red wine known for its bright red fruit flavors and elegant structure. Originating from Central Anatolia, this grape variety produces wines that are often compared to Pinot Noir for their finesse and aromatic complexity. It’s a perfect representation of Turkey’s unique terroir and winemaking heritage.
14. Öküzgözü
- Full-bodied, robust Turkish red wine.
Öküzgözü, meaning ‘ox eye’ due to its large berries, is a red wine offering rich, full-bodied flavors. Predominantly grown in Eastern Anatolia, this wine is known for its balanced acidity and tannins, often blended with Boğazkere to add complexity. Öküzgözü wines are a testament to Turkey’s ability to produce deeply flavored, hearty reds.
15. Boğazkere
- Tannic, powerful Turkish red wine.
Boğazkere is renowned for its strong tannins and potent character. This grape variety, native to Southeastern Turkey, produces wines that are robust and long-lived. Boğazkere is often blended with softer varieties to create a more balanced profile, embodying the bold spirit of Turkish red wines.
3.1.2. White Wine from Turkey
16. Emir
- Crisp, aromatic Turkish white wine.
Emir is a distinguished Turkish white wine, primarily grown in the Cappadocia region. It’s celebrated for its crisp acidity and delicate aromas of green apple and citrus. Emir wines reflect the unique volcanic soil of their terroir, offering a fresh and vibrant taste profile.
17. Narince
- Elegant, fruity Turkish white wine.
Narince, which means ‘delicately’ in Turkish, is a white wine grape producing elegant and fruity wines. This variety, predominantly found in the Tokat region, yields wines with a balance of fruitiness and acidity, often with hints of citrus and melon. Narince wines are a beautiful expression of Turkey’s capability in producing refined white wines.
18. Sarafin
- Premium, well-structured Turkish white wine.
Sarafin is a label known for producing premium white wines in Turkey. These wines are characterized by their well-structured and complex profiles, often made from international grape varieties like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, blended masterfully with local Turkish grapes. Sarafin represents the modern face of Turkish winemaking, combining international styles with local terroir.
3.1.3. Fruit Wine from Turkey
19. Visne Şarabı
- Unique sour cherry fruit wine from Turkey.
Visne Şarabı is a distinctive Turkish fruit wine made from sour cherries. This wine stands out for its vibrant fruitiness and refreshing acidity. It’s a delightful alternative to traditional grape wines, offering a taste of Turkey’s rich fruit wine culture. Visne Şarabı is perfect for those seeking a uniquely Turkish wine experience, combining local fruit flavors with traditional winemaking techniques.
3.2. Turkish Beer
The Turkish beer scene, though less ancient than its winemaking counterpart, has been rapidly evolving, marked by a blend of traditional and modern brewing practices. Brands like Efes Pilsen and Bomonti have become household names, offering a range of lagers and pilsners that reflect international influences. Meanwhile, the rise of craft beer, with breweries like Gara Guzu and Anadolu Ale, showcases Turkey’s growing passion for diverse and artisanal beer styles. This vibrant beer culture is a testament to Turkey’s adaptability and innovation in the brewing industry.
20. Efes Pilsen
- Turkey’s most popular lager.
Efes Pilsen, the flagship beer of the Efes Beverage Group, is synonymous with Turkish beer. This lager is celebrated for its crisp and refreshing taste, making it a staple in Turkish social gatherings. Efes Pilsen’s widespread popularity not only in Turkey but also internationally, showcases the country’s prowess in producing a globally appreciated beer.
21. Bomonti
- Historic Turkish beer brand.
Bomonti, named after the Bomonti district in Istanbul, carries a rich history as one of Turkey’s oldest beer brands. It’s known for its smooth and balanced flavor profile, catering to a wide range of palates. Bomonti has stood the test of time, offering a taste of Turkey’s brewing history.
22. Tuborg
- Internationally recognized lager.
Tuborg, though originally Danish, has become a significant part of the Turkish beer landscape. Known for its mild, malty taste and moderate hoppy bitterness, Tuborg offers a refreshing and enjoyable beer experience, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
23. Marmara34
- Istanbul-inspired craft beer.
Marmara34 is a craft beer that captures the spirit of Istanbul. This beer is celebrated for its unique flavors and artisanal brewing methods. Marmara34 represents the burgeoning craft beer scene in Turkey, appealing to those seeking a more experimental and localized beer experience.
24. Gara Guzu
- Pioneering Turkish craft brewery.
Gara Guzu, hailing from the Aegean region, is at the forefront of Turkey’s craft beer movement. Known for their innovative and diverse range of beers, Gara Guzu has garnered a loyal following for their commitment to quality and experimentation. They exemplify the creative spirit of Turkish craft brewing.
25. Anadolu Ale (Craft beer, various brands)
- Variety of Turkish craft ales.
Anadolu Ale represents a collection of craft ales from various Turkish breweries, showcasing the richness and diversity of Turkey’s craft beer scene. These ales vary in flavor, color, and texture, each offering a unique glimpse into the creativity and passion of Turkish craft brewers. Anadolu Ale is a testament to the dynamic and evolving nature of beer in Turkey.
3.3. Other Turkish Brewed and Fermented Drinks
26. Şıra
- Grape must – sweet and lightly fermented grape juice.
Şıra, a traditional Turkish beverage, is made from slightly fermented grape juice. It occupies a unique place in Turkish drink culture, offering a sweet, mildly alcoholic alternative to wine. Often consumed during the grape harvest season, Şıra is a delightful representation of Turkey’s rich agricultural heritage and its historical relationship with grape cultivation and fermentation. This drink is especially popular among those who enjoy natural, unprocessed flavors, embodying a simpler, rustic charm.
4. Non-Alcoholic Beverages from Turkey
4.1. Turkish Non-Alcoholic Drinks
27. Ayran
- Yogurt-based refreshing drink.
Ayran is a quintessential Turkish beverage, made by mixing yogurt with water and a pinch of salt. This simple yet refreshing drink is a staple in Turkish cuisine, often served alongside meals. Its cool and creamy texture makes it a perfect antidote to the hot Turkish summers, and it’s also known for its health benefits, including aiding digestion.
28. Şalgam Suyu
- Spiced, fermented vegetable drink from turnip and black carrot juice.
Şalgam Suyu is a traditional Turkish drink made from fermented turnips and black carrots, often spiced with aromatic ingredients. Its unique taste, ranging from tangy to spicy, makes it a popular accompaniment to kebabs and other meat dishes. This drink is not only a cultural staple but also valued for its probiotic qualities.
29. Komposto
- Sweetened, stewed fruit compote beverage.
Komposto is a sweet, fruity beverage made by stewing various fruits in sugar syrup. Common in Turkish households, it’s served as a drink or dessert. This versatile concoction can include fruits like apples, apricots, or cherries, offering a comforting and homely taste.
30. Limonata
- Freshly squeezed lemonade.
Limonata, the Turkish version of lemonade, is made from freshly squeezed lemons, sugar, and water. It’s a classic refreshment, embodying the simplicity and zest of Mediterranean cuisine. This drink is particularly popular in the summer, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
31. Turkish Mineral Water (Saka, Uludağ)
- Natural, mineral-rich water.
Turkish Mineral Water, with brands like Saka and Uludağ, is renowned for its purity and rich mineral content. These natural waters, often sourced from mountain springs, are a staple in Turkish daily life, known for their refreshing taste and health benefits.
32. Gazoz
- Traditional Turkish fizzy flavored soft drink.
Gazoz is a traditional Turkish carbonated soft drink, available in a variety of flavors like lemon, apple, and cherry. Each region in Turkey has its own local Gazoz brand, making it a drink with a strong cultural identity and nostalgic value.
33. Elma Sirkesi
- Sweetened, diluted apple cider vinegar.
Elma Sirkesi is a traditional Turkish beverage made by diluting apple cider vinegar with water and often sweetening it. This drink is known for its health benefits, including aiding digestion and boosting immunity. It offers a unique, tangy flavor profile.
34. Vişne Suyu
- Tart sour cherry juice.
Vişne Suyu is a popular Turkish beverage made from sour cherries. Known for its vibrant color and tart taste, this juice is both refreshing and nutritious, often consumed for its health benefits.
35. Nar Suyu
- Pomegranate juice
Nar Suyu, made from pomegranates, is a staple in Turkish cuisine. This juice is celebrated for its deep flavor and health properties, including a high concentration of antioxidants. It’s a symbol of health and vitality in Turkish culture.
36. Şerbeti (Sherbet)
Şerbeti, or sherbet, is a traditional Turkish drink that dates back to the Ottoman era. It’s a sweet, non-alcoholic beverage made from fruits, flowers, or herbs, often infused with spices like cinnamon or cloves. The ingredients are boiled in water, then sweetened with sugar, and sometimes chilled before serving. Sherbet comes in various flavors, such as rose, lemon, pomegranate, and tamarind, each offering a unique and refreshing taste.
In Turkish culture, şerbeti is more than just a drink; it’s a symbol of hospitality and celebration, commonly served at weddings, religious ceremonies, and during the holy month of Ramadan. Its rich history and cultural significance make it a cherished component of Turkish culinary tradition.
- Meyan Şerbeti (Licorice Root Sherbet): A sweet, herbal beverage made from licorice root, offering a natural sweetness with medicinal properties.
- Demirhindi Şerbeti (Tamarind Sherbet): A refreshingly tangy sherbet made from tamarind, known for its sweet-sour flavor profile.
- Osmanlı Şerbeti (Ottoman sherbet, various fruits and flowers): A traditional Ottoman drink made with a mix of fruits, flowers, and spices, symbolizing opulence and celebration.
- Kızılcık Şerbeti (Cornelian Cherry Sherbet): Made from the tart Cornelian cherry, this sherbet is rich in antioxidants and has a refreshing, tangy taste.
- Karadut Şerbeti (Black Mulberry Sherbet): A sweet beverage prepared from black mulberries, offering a rich, fruity flavor that’s a favorite in the summer.
- Frenk Üzümü Şerbeti (Grape Sherbet): A traditional sherbet made from grapes, sweet and refreshing, often enjoyed during festive occasions.
4.2. Turkish Hot Non-Alcoholic Drinks
37. Salep
- Warm, milky orchid drink.
Salep is a traditional Turkish winter drink made from the tubers of orchids. This sweet, creamy beverage is often flavored with cinnamon and served hot. It’s not only cherished for its comforting warmth and unique taste but also valued for its health benefits, including being a natural source of energy and warmth.
38. Türk Kahvesi
- Strong, unfiltered Turkish coffee.
Türk Kahvesi is a world-renowned Turkish coffee, unique for its fine grounds, strong brew, and rich foam. Prepared in a cezve (small pot), it’s often sweetened and served with a glass of water and Turkish delight. This coffee is not just a beverage but a significant part of Turkish culture and hospitality, often accompanied by fortune-telling from the coffee grounds.
39. Menengiç Kahvesi
- Terebinth coffee – pistachio-flavored coffee alternative.
Menengiç Kahvesi, or Terebinth Coffee, is a distinctive Turkish beverage made from the roasted fruits of the terebinth tree, offering a unique alternative to traditional coffee. This drink has a mild, nutty flavor similar to pistachios and is caffeine-free, making it a popular choice for those seeking a milder, coffee-like experience.
40. Keçiboynuzu Kahvesi
- Carob coffee – caffeine-free coffee alternative.
Keçiboynuzu Kahvesi, or Carob Coffee, is made from the roasted pods of the carob tree. This beverage is appreciated for its natural sweetness and health benefits, including being rich in vitamins and minerals. It’s a caffeine-free alternative to coffee, offering a unique, slightly chocolatey flavor that’s both delicious and nutritious.
41. Çay
- Traditional Turkish black tea, e.g. Rize.
Çay, or Turkish tea, is an integral part of daily life in Turkey. Brewed in a distinctive two-tiered teapot and served in small tulip-shaped glasses, it offers a strong, fragrant experience. Rize tea, from the Rize province, is particularly famous for its high quality. This tea is a symbol of Turkish hospitality and is enjoyed throughout the day.
42. Bitki Çayı
- Turkish herbal, spice and fruit teas.
Bitki Çayı, translated as “plant teas”, encompassing Turkish herbal, spice, and fruit teas, offer a delightful array of infusions made from various herbs, spices, and fruits, deeply rooted in Turkish culture. Each variety provides unique health benefits and distinct flavors, ranging from the refreshing zest of lemon and mint to the calming effects of chamomile and sage. These teas are not only cherished for their soothing and medicinal properties but also reflect the rich biodiversity of Turkey’s flora.
- Adaçayı (Sage Tea): A fragrant tea with a slightly peppery taste, known for its digestive and calming properties.
- Ihlamur (Linden Tea): A sweet and mild tea made from linden flowers, popular for its relaxing effects and floral aroma.
- Kuşburnu Çayı (Rosehip Tea): Prepared from rosehips, this tea is rich in vitamin C and has a tangy, fruity flavor.
- Elma Çayı (Apple Tea): A sweet and comforting tea made from apples, often enjoyed for its soothing qualities.
- Zencefil Çayı (Ginger Tea): A spicy and invigorating tea made from ginger, known for its digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Papatya Çayı (Chamomile Tea): A gentle tea with a floral taste, widely consumed for its calming and sleep-inducing effects.
- Rezene Çayı (Fennel Tea): Made from fennel seeds, this tea has a sweet, licorice-like flavor and is often used for its digestive benefits.
- Nane Limon Çayı (Mint and Lemon Tea): A refreshing blend of mint and lemon, perfect for soothing an upset stomach and refreshing the palate.
Bitki cayı are a part of daily life in Turkey, offering warmth, comfort, and a touch of traditional wellness.