If you are curious about trying Aperitif Ouzo, we recommend purchasing a small bottle so that you can decide if it is something you would like to drink on a regular basis. Generally, ouzo can last for several years if stored properly, but its flavor and aroma may start to deteriorate after a year or two. However, ouzo has a very uniquely potent character. Aperitif ouzo is a traditional Greek spirit made by distilling grapes liquid juice that is left from winemaking and then adding herbs and spices such as anise, coriander, and fennel. Yet, it is almost always diluted with a bit of water. Ouzo is heaven eventually. Ouzos history is surprisingly short: in 1856, Nicholas Katsaros and his family opened the first ouzo distillery, which still produces ouzo today. Often, the things I ended up liking best in life, I at first didnt really like at all. Cocktails made with Ouzo are typically strong, both in alcohol content and taste, and heavily anise-flavored. Its not for the faint of heart, but it will have you feeling great in just a few minutes. Ouzo is made from the by-products of grapes when they are used to make wine. With the introduction of locally made pastis, demand for ouzo waned in France. Mmm, licorice, Bruce Grays Rodney Miller remarks as he knocks back the first of several shots. Nevertheless, it has retained a cult status both in both Greece and abroad. Ouzo is typically drunk as an aperitif with appetizers, or meze. This grape base is distilled into a strong alcoholic beverage, and flavored with spices. It is often flavoured with anise but it can also be made without it. Ouzo is typically around 40% alcohol by volume (ABV), which is similar to the alcohol content of many other distilled spirits such as vodka, gin, and whiskey. Conversely, some experts claim that the water should be added before the ice cubes and that it shouldnt be too cold. Thats called louching, or the ouzo effect. Stick a lime twist in the drink as a garnish (if you want), and youre good to go. Some people also like to add ice cubes or a slice of lemon to their glass. Then there are many other smaller companies like Kronos, Mattis, Samara, Pitsiladi all of which are . Once the mash has fermented, it is distilled to separate the alcohol from the solids and impurities. The dark anise flavor of the Ouzo complements the coffees bitterness flawlessly. If youve never tried it, its an aperitif, flavoured with anise or fennel seed, and is exclusively produced in Greece. In truth, ouzo is all delicacy and finesse- diluted, importantly, not just with water,but also with ample leisure. Here are 10 of my favorites. An Introduction To Ouzo, Greece's National Drink | VinePair Next steps: Theres honestly only so much ouzo exploring you can do in the U.S. To get the full cultural experience of ouzo, you have to make the journey to Greece, where even small bars and tavernas offer a vast range of different ouzos. Ouzo is an anise-flavored liquor derived from grape must, which is a byproduct of the winemaking process. Add the combo to a shaker with ice and shake vigorously. ouzo (countable and uncountable, plural ouzos) (uncountable) An anise-flavoured aperitif, originating in Greece. For the uninitiated, ouzo teeters precariously between classic and cliche. The drink is not to blame- drunk properly, its a clean, fresh taste of summer. The ouzos of southern Greece, on the other hand, contain sugar, meaning they can easily be drunk without an appetiser. Its a sweeter, fruitier, less artificial sugary Slush Puppie for adults. It is produced in Greece and has a distinct aniseed flavor. Also, due to the fact that ouzo is usually distilled in copper stills, the finished product has a nutty and metallic aroma. The alcohol is distilled in copper stills and then a number of spices and flavorings are added to give it its unique taste. When served in a small glass, its expected to continue diluting it after each sip. Recipes are often closely-guarded family secrets, but will always include anise, and may also include spices like cardamom, cinnamon, clove, coriander, fennel, mint, or mastic. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Mix everything in a shaker with ice, pour it into a nice glass, and enjoy! 1. The specially designed stills are traditionally made of copper and the high quality of the ouzo is ensured by the design and seal of the bottles, which bear all the details of the product and the distiller. With a heady anise and alcohol kick, a straight shot of ouzo shocks the palate, stuns the mind. (Actually, once they did bring us a bucket of ice. A toast to ouzo, Greek's licorice-flavored aperitif (just don't say opa!) With this approach, the temperature is gradually reduced, which allows the aromas to release properly. Because of its newfound popularity, traditional tsipouro started also being referred to as ouzo. Although it may pack a bit of a punch at first, the alcohol bite fades quickly, leaving a subtle, warming sensation on the tongue. The word aperitif comes from a Latin root, meaning "to open," which is exactly the purpose of the drink: to prepare the stomach for the meal and to open up the palate for tastes to be enjoyed during dinner. What Is Ouzo? How To Drink Ouzo & How It's Made - Bespoke Unit To protect the industry, Greece introduced a regulation that forbids ouzo consisting of less than 20% ouzo yeast. If you want to dilute the ouzo a bit or chill it down, the solution would be to mix it with some iced water. Similarly, it will feature between 10 and 15 grams of carbohydrates. Learn how your comment data is processed. Once opened, ouzo can last for a long time if stored properly. Imagine yourself sipping a glass of ouzo in the afternoon shade of a Greek island taverna, just as the sun begins to set over the Aegean. In addition, ouzo causes vasolidation and lowers blood pressure. Who doesnt like a drink with a little mystique? Nearly all over Greece, a portion of ouzo is classically served in a tall glass- like a water glass or one a little smaller. According to TSOU Greece, it must also "contain alcohol flavored by distillation and amounting to at least 20% of the ouzo's alcoholic strength.". Blue Chair Bay Rum Is Kenny Chesneys Rum Good? If youre planning on sipping it neat or on the rocks, youll want to choose a high-quality brand that isnt too harshly alcoholic. That's why ouzo traditionally is served with water, which dilutes the alcohol and causes the oils to cloud, resulting in a milky-white appearance known as louche (similar to what happens when you add water to absinthe). Demand for substitute anise drinks skyrocketed and ouzo quickly became a favourite alongside sambuca since it was more accessible than raki or arak. Ouzos predecessor is tsipouro, which is basically Greek grappa. I share recipes for people who LOVE good food, but want to keep things simple :). Typically, you can drop into a local distillery and find ouzo at its cheapest, but you can also find low-priced bottles in your local liquor store or supermarket. Its taste is similar to other anise liquors like pastis, sambuca, rak and arak . Other, less probable, versions are that it comes from a corruption of the ancient Greek verb ozo (I smell) or even more extreme from ou zo (I do not live in other words, I cant live without ouzo!). Its perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks. Origins of Ouzo. Id imagine the men would just switch to a different spirit? So drink with caution. Its always best to serve over ice and to finish with a slice of lemon or lime, adding color and a dash of citrus. At the same time, if you want, you can also enjoy ouzo as an aperitif before meals (with ice or neat), and there are cocktails made with ouzo, giving a unique flavour. For instance, too much sugar or cheap flavourings may prevent ouzo or other anise drinks from louching properly. Aperitif Ouzo is a type of liqueur that is made from distilled alcohol and flavored with anise. Chef/Owner of both Ouest and Cesca, and the Executive Chef of Le Cirque, Alison on Dominick, and Butterfield 81. Best Pernod Substitutes For Cooking (Alcoholic & Non-alcoholic) - Chefd Imagine the taste of licorice but with an added exotic twist that's ouzo. [1] It is made from rectified spirits that have undergone a process of distillation and flavoring. Is there somewhere that we said pastis had more sugar? The best, and most common, way to enjoy ouzo is over ice with a little water added. In the early 20th century, the Greek government began regulating the production and sale of ouzo, and the drink was officially recognized as a unique product of Greece in 2006. Of course, like any strong alcohol, any benefits will only be gained in moderation. This anise-flavored aperitif may have some similarities to other drinks, such as aquavit or absinthe, but it's a completely original type of drink. The essential oils of anise and fennel seed that create the classic liquorice aroma and taste are soluble in high-grade, neat ouzo. Most islands and coastal areas will serve ouzo alongside fish as its crisp flavour heightens the freshness. Ouzo is said to have come from a story involving an Italian (or Ionian Island) trading company, which packaged a batch of exceptional quality tsipourothat was heavily scented with anise. Finally, swallow and enjoy the aftertaste that lingers in your mouth. Some people will dilute it just until it louches whereas others may water it down even more. Or dont. It is typically served over ice, to which water is then added, forming a cloudy drink with a slightly blue tinge. Choosing the best aperitif ouzo can be subjective, as everyones taste preferences are different. The mixture is then distilled and often redistilled a second and often third time. Greek culture cherishes ouzo, often pairing it with small plates of meze dishes and even dedicating entire festivals to honor it. This mostly means the skins and stems of the grapes. READING TIME As long as it takes to eat a slice of watermelon Ouzo, raki, tsipouro, masticha welcome to the ultimate Mediterranean aperitif They smell and taste like Greek summertime in a glass: Ouzo, raki, tsipouro and masticha. Looking for great ideas to build your holiday around? Like most Ouzo cocktails, the Mediterranean sunset requires few ingredients. The best way to describe its flavor is to say that it tastes like black licorice. This may not be a very typical cocktail ingredient, but the strong anise flavor can work well with certain ingredients. Were dedicated to providing you with the best guide about Perfume to walk you through your journey. What Does Aperitif Ouzo Smell Like - Bricks Chicago This anise-flavored liqueur is a popular choice for many drinkers, but its intense flavor can be a bit off-putting to some. Luckily, weve got the scoop on what this drink smells like, so you can decide if its right for you. Youll often see ouzo being accompanied by a classic Greek meze appetiser, but there are also occasions when you can drink it without food. Ouzo was first commercially produced in 1856 by Nikolaos Katsaros in Tyrnavos. Anise which gives ouzo its distinctive taste is considered to help in iron absorption in foods. For the uninitiated, ouzo teeters precariously between classic and cliche. The drink is not to blame- drunk properly, its a clean, fresh taste of summer. It has a lovely yellow-orange color thats halfway between lemonade and orange juice. If you've ever traveled to Greece or Cyprus, you've likely encountered one particularly intoxicating elixir ouzo. The only exception- when drinking wine or tsicoudia, we may top up the glass of our neighbor if it is running low. Aperitif ouzo has a sweet and licorice-like taste. Pastis is made with a blend of herbs and spices, including anise, licorice, and fennel, which are infused into a neutral grape brandy. If you want to make a refreshing and boozy aperitif ouzo cocktail, start by mixing ouzo with sparkling water and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Hey there! Please, let us know so we can correct it! Traditionally, ouzo is served in cafs called ouzeries alongside mezedes, which is similar to Spanish tapas that often consists of small seafood dishes. Tsipouro is still poured all over Greece and comes in two flavors: pure or anise. Nearly everyone adds ice. Although it has a strong heritage, ouzo was only recognised by the European Union as a protected designation of origin in 2006. There are a number of theories to the etymology of its name. No other beverage is as uniquely Greek or as closely linked to a culture as ouzo is to Greece. It is made from rectified spirits that have undergone a process of distillation and flavoring. (countable) A serving of this drink. This distillery is still in operation today, alongside many other well-loved Ouzo producers. In the 60s ouzo was prohibited to drink for the us military men, due to the results of drinking to much!!! Instead, say yamas! which more accurately means cheers (but literally translates to health). If its from Macedonia, it wont contain sugar and so will be drier than ouzos from elsewhere, making the accompaniment of an appetiser more important. Unlike spirits such as tequila, gin, or even rum, ouzo is meant to be a slow-sipping experience, much like wine. If you are lucky enough to have Aperitif Ouzo in your collection, you should take some time to enjoy it. One glass can last hours, to allow time for discussion, before sitting at the dining table. Although, this well-loved Greek favorite can be enjoyed for any occasion that calls for it. Unless youre from or have visited Greece, or youre a connoisseur of various aperitifs, Ouzo cocktails may not be something youve tried. What Does Aperitif Smell Like? Be the first to rate this post. Peppery and piquant cheeses. This makes it possible to extend the hours of conviviality. And deservedly so. Lutefisk is dried cod that's soaked in a lye solution, then soaked in water, and then boiled or baked and served with butter, salt and pepper. But we simply can't talk about acquired tastes and not bring up lutefisk. Youll make it with tequila, Kahlua, and Ouzo, and it is sweet, rich, and as close to decadent as a drink usually gets without adding all the extra whipped cream, caramel, and chocolate sauce. It can also be served on the rocks, which means that it is poured over ice. This is said to be the reason why one community of 14th century monks decided to spice the drink up by adding anise, thus creating ouzo. As you'll learn in this guide, it is made by steeping anise and other spices distilling it in a similar way to gin. Its considered more than a drink in its home country; ouzo has become a tradition intrinsically tied to Greeces food and beverage culture. In 2006, recognizing the beverages uniquely Greek heritage, the government ruled that ouzo can only be made in Greece, receiving an EU-approved Protected Designation of Origin (this is similar to Italianwine DOCs). Initially, ouzo was made by distilling grape must or wine with anise and other herbs and spices. There is no hierarchy of courses, no progression of wines- just a cycle of piquant bites, lively anecdotes, and refreshing sips. Licorice: Anise is often associated with licorice due to their shared compound, anethole. This is a traditional toast that is used to express good wishes and to show appreciation for the company of others. Topping up a glass will throw that out of whack- wait til your friends glass is empty to fill it again. Why no ice? In comparison, ouzo has a clean and crisp flavour. While there are other liquorice-scented drinks in the Mediterranean (that also change colour when you add water), ouzo stands out because of its production process. Your email address will not be published. In the US you should pay no more than $30 for a bottle and it is typically available at $20 or less. Among the wide selection of Greek products, three famous spirits are ready to pour forth their secrets. But when water or ice are added, the alcohol content drops and the essential oils come out of solution, reappearing as a white precipitate. I grew up on a beautiful island, far from Greece, but in its ways not at all dissimilar. As long as it takes to drink a glass of ouzo. However, the smell of aperitif ouzo differs each time based on how it is served. The only issue is that few producers will openly state whether the alcohol base is made from grapes of grain. Its a little minty, smooth, refreshing. That is, nearly everyone but the people who know best. And as a bonus, it offers a delightful aftertaste that's mildly sweet. Ouzo is produced in dozens of local distilleries across the country and as well as being sold cheaply within Greece, its also shipped far and wide. Otherwise, the Ancient Greeks believed that anise helped with pain relief, difficult urination, and reduced thirst. Flexible and Forgiving. That's called louching, or the ouzo effect. If you want an immersive experience in Greek culture without ever leaving your residence, you can try aperitif ouzo a traditional Greek aperitif. Think stuffed grape leaves, eggplant, and fresh cheese. Like most alcoholic spirits, a moderate amount can aid the intestine in absorbing iron from food as well as reduce blood pressure by dilating the blood vessels. The alcohol spirit is then hydrated to a minimum of 37.5% ABV. Over time, ouzo became increasingly popular throughout Greece and was often enjoyed as a pre-dinner drink. Initially, it can have a sharp bite due to the alcohol content, but this fades away quickly.
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