Metaxa Ouzo is a quintessential Greek liqueur, masterfully crafted in Athens using a time-honored recipe that blends pressed Tsipoura grapes with a unique selection of rare botanicals, including the prized mastic from Chios, aniseed, fennel, and coriander. Renowned for its smooth and aromatic profile, this spirit offers a crisp, clean finish with refreshing mastic notes, evoking the essence of a gentle Mediterranean sea breeze. Perfect for sipping on ice or mixed with water, Metaxa Ouzo pairs exceptionally well with Mediterranean appetizers, making it an ideal choice for social gatherings or leisurely moments. With a bold 40% ABV and a heritage spanning over a century, this iconic drink captures the vibrant spirit of Greece in every sip.
Process & Profile
Metaxa Ouzo is crafted by the renowned House of Metaxa, where a blend of tradition and expertise ensures its superior quality. Distilled in small, traditional copper stills, this liqueur begins with a base of Mediterranean botanicals. Key ingredients include aniseed, fennel, coriander, and the rare mastic resin from Chios island. This meticulous process results in a crisp, aromatic spirit with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 40%, offering a robust yet smooth drinking experience. Its appearance is a clear, bright liquid that transforms into a milky white when diluted—a hallmark of authentic ouzo production.
Tasting Notes
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Aroma: A captivating bouquet centered on sweet anise, complemented by subtle herbal undertones and the refreshing pine-like hints of mastic.
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Palate: Smooth and velvety, featuring the bold flavors of licorice and anise, balanced perfectly with herbal accents and a hint of sweetness.
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Finish: A warming, long-lasting finish with lingering anise and delicate herbal notes.
Metaxa Ouzo offers a sensory journey, from its fragrant aroma to its complex yet approachable taste.
What Makes It Special
Metaxa Ouzo stands out for its:
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Authentic Greek Heritage: Produced in Athens by the historic House of Metaxa, a name synonymous with quality and tradition since 1888.
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Unique Botanical Blend: The inclusion of rare ingredients like mastic resin sets this ouzo apart, adding a distinctly fresh and aromatic character.
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Meticulous Distillation: The small-batch process in copper stills ensures a refined spirit with exceptional purity and flavor.
As a recognized Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product, Metaxa Ouzo embodies the essence of Greek craftsmanship.
How to Enjoy
Metaxa Ouzo is versatile, allowing you to enjoy it in traditional or creative ways:
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Neat or with Water: Serve neat or add a splash of cold water to witness the “ouzo effect,” where the clear liquid turns cloudy white, enhancing its flavor profile.
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On the Rocks: Pour over ice for a smooth, refreshing aperitif.
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Cocktails: Mix with fresh lemon juice, mint, or honey for a summery twist on this classic drink.
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Culinary Pairings: Pair with Greek mezes like grilled octopus, feta cheese, olives, or seafood dishes for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
Discover the vibrant flavors of Greece with every sip of Metaxa Ouzo, a liqueur that embodies tradition, quality, and the Mediterranean spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Metaxa Ouzo?
Metaxa Ouzo is a traditional Greek liqueur crafted by the House of Metaxa. It is made with a precise blend of Mediterranean botanicals, including aniseed, fennel, coriander, and the rare mastic resin from the island of Chios, which gives it a distinctive flavor and smooth, aromatic profile. It has an alcohol content of 40% ABV.
How is Metaxa Ouzo traditionally enjoyed?
Metaxa Ouzo can be sipped neat, with ice, or with a splash of cold water. Adding water results in the "ouzo effect," where the liquid becomes cloudy white. It is also enjoyed as a refreshing aperitif or included in Mediterranean-inspired cocktails.
What does Metaxa Ouzo taste like?
Metaxa Ouzo has a clear appearance that turns milky white when diluted, a fragrant aroma dominated by sweet anise, and a smooth palate with licorice, herbal notes, and a hint of mastic's pine-like freshness. It finishes with a lingering warm and herbal aftertaste.
What foods pair best with Metaxa Ouzo?
Metaxa Ouzo pairs beautifully with traditional Greek meze, such as grilled octopus, olives, feta cheese, seafood dishes, and other Mediterranean appetizers. These foods complement its crisp and aromatic flavors.
What makes Metaxa Ouzo unique?
Its use of rare mastic resin sets Metaxa Ouzo apart from other ouzos. Mastic, prized for its aromatic qualities, gives the liqueur a velvety texture and distinct character. Additionally, it is distilled in small copper stills for a pure and refined flavor.
Is Metaxa Ouzo gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, Metaxa Ouzo is gluten-free and suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets.
Can Metaxa Ouzo be used in cocktails?
Absolutely! Metaxa Ouzo adds a unique twist to cocktails and pairs well with citrus and herbal ingredients. It is a versatile ingredient for creating Mediterranean-inspired mixed drinks.
What is the best way to store Metaxa Ouzo?
Store Metaxa Ouzo at room temperature in a cool, dark place. It does not need to be refrigerated but can be served chilled or over ice for optimal enjoyment.
