The art of crafting traditional spirits and liqueurs in Greece draws on ancient techniques that utilize aromatic flowers, leaves, seeds, roots, and various plant parts. Many of these beverages are recognized with PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) labels, highlighting their distinctive character and origin.
The most renowned Greek spirit is undoubtedly ouzo. This fragrant beverage primarily features anise (and/or star anise) as its main ingredient, along with smaller amounts of mastic (a resin harvested from trees on Chios Island), fennel, coriander, cardamom, nutmeg, and angelica root. While ouzo is produced throughout Greece, the region most famous for it is Lesvos Island in the North Aegean Sea. The ouzo crafted in the towns of Mytilini and Plomari proudly bears the PGI designation. To savor it at its best, enjoy ouzo with one or two ice cubes or some chilled water; this will enhance its flavor and create a delightful cloudiness in the drink. It pairs wonderfully as an aperitif with seafood appetizers.