Greece is a country with a rich and varied history, and that history is reflected in the wide variety of drinks that are popular there. From the classic Ouzo to more modern creations, there is a Greek drink to suit every taste.
So, what do Greeks drink?
Greek drinks have a long and storied history, dating back centuries. Some of the most popular drinks enjoyed by Greeks include Ouzo, Retsina, Assyrtiko, Mavrodaphne, Tsipouro, Mastika Liqueur, Tsikoudia/Raki, and Frappé coffee. In fact, Greece is now one of the world’s top producers of award-winning wines.
This article will explore the history of some of Greece’s most popular drinks and their top seven drinks which you should try next time.
What Do Greeks Drink?
The answer to this question may surprise you: Greeks drink wine. A lot of wine! Greece is one of the world’s leading producers of wine, and it has a long history of viticulture. Greeks have been making wine for over 4,000 years, an important part of the country’s culture.
Wine is traditionally served with meals and is often used in religious ceremonies. Greeks also make a type of fortified wine called Retsina, which is made with pine resin. This gives the wine a unique flavor that takes some getting used to.
Greeks enjoy a variety of fruit juices, including orange juice, grapefruit juice, and Lemonade. Soft drinks such as Coca-Cola are also popular. Greeks typically drink alcohol with food, and it is not unusual for restaurants to offer customers a complimentary glass of wine or Ouzo.
Greeks generally prefer to drink in moderation, and it is considered bad manners to get drunk in public.
What Is the History of Greek Drinks?
Greek culture has always revolved around food and drink. Greeks have been making wine for over 4,000 years. In ancient times, the symposium, or drinking party, was an essential part of Greek social life.
The very first recorded drinking party in ancient Greek history was held in honor of Dionysus, the God of wine. The wine was the main beverage, and it was often diluted with water.
Greek wines were usually very strong, and drunkenness was common. Despite this, wine was considered a civilized drink, in contrast to the barbaric practice of drinking beer. Greek wines are known for their bold flavors and distinctive aromas.
Greek wines were also used for medicinal purposes and were thought to have curative powers. In the classical era, Greek wines became famous for their quality and were exported worldwide.
Some ancient Greek red wines include Xinomavro and Mavrodaphne. Assyrtiko and Moschofilero are Greek white wines.
Viticulture and winemaking were major industries, and wine was one of Greece’s major exports. Today, Greek wines are still highly regarded, and the country produces a wide variety of reds, whites, and roses.
Greek culture continues to celebrate the joys of food and drink, and wine is still an important part of Greek social life.
7 Most Popular Greek Drinks You Should Try
If you’re planning a trip to Greece, or if you’re just curious about the country’s culture, here are seven of the most famous Greek drinks that you should try.
Ouzo
Ouzo is a clear, anise-flavored spirit popular in Greece and Cyprus. It is typically served with water, making it a milky white color. Ouzo is usually drunk as an aperitif or with meze, a selection of small dishes that are served as appetizers.
Retsina
Retsina is a rose/white wine that is made with pine resin. It has a distinctive taste that takes some getting used to, but it is worth trying if you want to try something different. Retsina is typically served with food and pairs well with fish and other seafood dishes.
Assyrtiko
A white wine indigenous to the island of Santorini, Assyrtiko is made from grapes grown in volcanic soil. The wine has a crisp, dry taste and pairs well with fried seafood.
Mavrodaphne
It is a red wine that is made from black Corinthian grapes. The wine is then aged in oak barrels, which gives it a smooth, rich flavor. Mavrodaphne is best served with red meat dishes.
Tsipouro
Tsipouro is a distilled spirit that is made from grapes. It is similar to grappa. If you think you don’t like grappa, give Tsipouro a try; it is often considered to be smoother and more palatable. Tsipouro is typically served as an aperitif or with meze.
Mastika Liqueur
When you think of Greece, you might not think of liqueurs. But Greeks enjoy a variety of sweet, aromatic liqueurs, and Mastika is one of the most popular.
Mastika is made with mastic, a resin extracted from the mastic tree. The liqueur has a robust and pine-like flavor, and it can be served after dinner.
The best way to enjoy Mastika is on the rocks as an aperitif, but you can also drink it in the afternoon as a refreshing drink.
Frappé Coffee
Frappé coffee is a popular drink in Greece, and it is made with instant coffee, milk, sugar, and ice. The coffee is shaken or blended until it is frothy and enjoyed in a tall glass.
So, there you have it! These are seven of the most popular Greek drinks you should try on your next visit to the country.
Greece is a land of great food and drink, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The Bottom Line
The reason that Greek drinks are making waves across the world is due to the country’s rich culture and history. Greeks have been making wine for thousands of years, making sense that they would perfect the art of winemaking.
The refreshing taste of Greek wine, the smoothness of Ouzo, and the sweetness of Mastika are just a few of the reasons that Greek drinks are so popular.
Your party will not be complete without trying some of these Greek drinks! So, make sure to stock up on your favorite beverages before your next get-together.
