Ouzo

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Ouzo

Type	Aperitif
Country of origin	Greece
Introduced	19th century
Alcohol by volume	37.5–50%
Proof (US)	75–100
Color	Clear
Flavor	Anise
Ingredients	Anise, fennel, coriander, clove, cinnamon, star anise, cardamom, nutmeg
Related products	Rakı, Arak, Pastis, Sambuca

Ouzo is a dry anise-flavored aperitif that is widely consumed in Greece and Cyprus. It is made from a base spirit of grapes before being flavored with anise and other spices such as fennel, coriander, clove, cinnamon, star anise, cardamom, and nutmeg. Ouzo is traditionally served with water, which turns it a milky-white color, and is often accompanied by small dishes known as meze.

History

The origins of ouzo are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been first produced in the 19th century following Greek independence. The modern distillation process for ouzo was developed in the 19th century by Greek distillers who were influenced by the production methods of tsipouro, a traditional Greek pomace brandy. The first ouzo distillery was established in 1856 in the town of Tyrnavos.

Production

Ouzo is produced by distilling a base spirit, usually made from grapes, with anise and other aromatic seeds, fruits, and spices. The mixture is distilled in copper stills, and the resulting spirit is then diluted with water to the desired alcohol content, which typically ranges from 37.5% to 50% alcohol by volume.

Consumption

Ouzo is traditionally served as an aperitif and is often enjoyed with a variety of small dishes known as meze, which can include items such as olives, cheese, seafood, and grilled meats. It is typically served in a small glass and can be consumed neat or diluted with water, which causes the drink to turn a milky-white color due to the presence of anethole, a compound found in anise.

Cultural Significance

Ouzo holds a special place in Greek culture and is often associated with social gatherings and celebrations. It is considered a symbol of Greek hospitality and is commonly offered to guests as a welcoming gesture. The drink is also an important part of Greek culinary traditions and is often paired with various types of meze.

Related Beverages

Ouzo is part of a family of anise-flavored spirits that are popular in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. Related beverages include Rakı from Turkey, Arak from the Levant, Pastis from France, and Sambuca from Italy.

See Also

• Tsipouro
• Rakı
• Arak (drink)
• Pastis
• Sambuca
• Meze