Beyond Ouzo: Discover Greece’s Traditional Drink

Greece is home to a variety of traditional drinks that reflect its rich culture and regional diversity. You probably already know ouzo and tsipouro, but there are quite many  local drinks from  various parts of the country that are worth to taste. Here ere are some other iconic Greek beverages worth exploring:

Mastiha

A liqueur made from the resin of the mastic tree, which grows exclusively on the island of Chios.

• Flavor: Sweet, with a distinct pine and herbal aroma.
• How to Enjoy: Typically served chilled as a digestif or used in cocktails.

Tentura

A spiced liqueur originating from Patras in the Peloponnese, made from brandy, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.

• Flavor: Sweet and aromatic with warm spice notes.
• How to Enjoy: Served neat, over ice, or in desserts.

Koum Quat Liqueur

A specialty of Corfu island, made from the small citrus fruit koum quat.

• Flavor: Sweet and citrusy, with a slightly tangy edge.
• How to Enjoy: Served as a digestif or used in cocktails.

Metaxa

A world-famous Greek spirit that blends aged brandy with wine and Mediterranean botanicals.

• Flavor: Rich and smooth, with notes of honey, raisins, and spice.
• How to Enjoy: Neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.

Local Greek Craft Beers

While not traditional, Greece has a growing craft beer scene alongside historic brands like Mythos, Fix, and Alfa. There are more than 70 regional microbreweries that produce unique beers with local ingredients. Some of the most popular are Nissos  from Tinos  island, Septem from Evia, Volcan and Crazy Donkey from Santorini, Voreia  from Serres, Chios Beer, Vergina from Thessaloniki, EZA from Atalanti, Noctua Microbrewery from Athens, Katsika from Rhodes  island, Ikariotissa from Ikaria island, Mamos from Patra. So, in any part of Greece you are travelling, ask for a local beer: it is sure there will be one.

Kanelada

A cinnamon-based syrup drink, often served hot during winter or mixed with water for a refreshing summer drink.

• Flavor: Sweet, with a strong cinnamon profile.
• How to Enjoy: Hot with cloves or chilled as a soft drink.

Soumada

A non-alcoholic almond-based drink made from crushed almonds, sugar, and water, popular mainly in islands.

• Flavor: Sweet and nutty, with a creamy texture.
• How to Enjoy: Served cold as a refreshing drink or warm during winter.

Local Soft drinks 

Greece’s vibrant culinary culture extends to its local soft drinks, with many regions offering unique, refreshing beverages rooted in tradition and crafted with local ingredients. Some of the most popular local Greek soft drinks are  Lux from Patra, Vikos from Epirus region, Epsa from Volos, Souroti from Thessaloniki, Krinos Sour Cherry Soda from Thessaloniki as well, Tsitsibira (Ginger beer) from Corfu island, Rodonero (Rose water soda), Gerani from Crete island and much more.

These drinks, steeped in Greek heritage, provide a flavorful journey into the country’s traditions, each with its own unique story and way of being enjoyed.