Greek vodka uzo (ouzo)

From the point of view of the technological process, Greek vodka Uzo (Ouzo) is a product of distillation of highly purified ethyl alcohol and various aromatic herbs: fennel, chamomile, coriander, mastiha, veronica, cilantro, cinnamon, spinach, cardamom, cloves, bitter almonds. . . In general, they can be listed almost indefinitely. However, the main component of Greek vodka Uzo (Ouzo) has always been and remains anise.

To make this noble drink, grape raw materials are mixed with plants, and then heated in special boilers made of copper. After that, the resulting liquid is left for fermentation processes for several months, and a double fermentation system is often used.

Thus, the Greek vodka Ouzo (although, as can be seen from the above production technology, it would be more logical to classify this drink as brandy, once it is obtained by distillation and fermentation) is a strong alcoholic drink in which a high alcohol content is successfully disguised using anise aroma. It is thanks to this aroma that many connoisseurs put Greek vodka Uzo (Ouzo) on a par with French Pastis, Turkish Raka, Italian Sambuca and Spanish Absinthe, banned in European countries.

Interestingly, every year on the first summer day in the city of Mytilini they organize a festival dedicated to the Greek vodka Uzo (Ouzo) and accompanied by musical concerts and colorful performances. However, rare Greeks, and even more so tourists, will go there on purpose in order to enjoy the sounds of music. The main event of the festival is a free tasting of Greek vodka Ouzo from the best manufacturers.

In general, it is worth noting that in Greece this drink ranks second in terms of consumption after the famous local wines, and it is produced throughout the country. Based on the place of manufacture, it is customary to distinguish between the special properties and quality of Greek vodka Uzo (Ouzo): for example, in the south of the country the drink includes sugar, and for harsh residents of the northern regions it is preferable to make a stronger version with a bitter taste.

In the homeland of Greek vodka Uzo (Ouzo), this drink can be purchased almost everywhere: it is offered in all establishments, while there are even special taverns called uzeri. The traditional snack that you will certainly be offered is all kinds of seafood: sardines, octopuses, anchovies, squid, as well as Horyatiki - a light salad that is commonly called Greek. In addition, for some islands of Greece, pickled vegetables and fried candied fruits are the favorite accompaniment of Greek vodka Ouzo.