A TOAST TO CYPRIOT OUZO
WHAT IS OUZO?
Ouzo is an aniseed-flavoured spirit derived from the by-products of the winemaking process. This refreshing alcoholic drink originates from Greece, but it has had a strong presence in Cyprus for at least 500 years. Recipes for Ouzo may vary, but it will always include distilled anise, as well as several other botanical spices. It must contain no less than 20% of the original Ouzo yeast and the alcohol volume should measure at least 37.5% alcohol by volume. The protected status of the drink means that it can only be processed in Greece or Cyprus, currently holding Protected Geographical Indication in Europe (PGI) and a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)Â which has granted the product exclusive rights to the name Ouzo.
THE MONKS OF PATMOS
The origins of Ouzo date back to the 14th century when the monks of Mount Athos on the island of Patmos in Greece first produced it. The monks of Patmos decided to use anise seeds to distil alcohol and then went on to use a variety of herbs and spices to create the unique flavour we know well today. After becoming the drink of choice on Patmos, Ouzo soon spread to the rest of Greece and other nearby regions. Ouzo is thought to have reached the shores of Cyprus by the 15th century by way of merchant shipping and production of the spirit soon began thereafter on the island, where the drink has become a staple ever since.Â
CYPRIOT OUZO
Whilst Ouzo is most commonly associated with Greece, it has been produced in Cyprus for hundreds of years. The differences between the Greek and Cypriot versions of the drink are slight, but make all the difference in taste. Cyprus Ouzo, like its Greek contemporary, is served chilled and is taken as either a shot or drank neat. Adding ice causes the drink’s surface to crystallise so instead of ice, it is often mixed with ice-cold water. The aniseed-based drink is clear, so has no colour, and it turns a cloudy white with the addition of water and this has come to be known as the ‘Ouzo effect’. Ouzo is also combined with flavoured mixers to create various cocktails of choice. The Cypriot version of the drink tends to be smoother and slightly sweeter, maintaining a stronger aniseed flavour throughout. The drink remains a popular choice amongst locals, who often enjoy the drink all year round with seasonal fruit or alongside a hearty Cyprus meze. In some circles, it is also taken as a pre-dinner apertif or an after-dinner digestif.
OUZO COCKTAILS
The dry anise-flavoured spirit gained international recognition with the advent of tourism. Tourists from all over the world, visiting both Greece and Cyprus, were introduced to the unique taste of the drink, and as a result, a number of new refreshing cocktails were created using Ouzo as the main ingredient making the drink even more popular. Ouzo has also spread into the kitchen and is often used to add a distinctive aniseed flavour to certain Mediterranean and Cypriot dishes.
CYPRIOT CULTURE
Traditional taverns and most bars, across the island, often stock different types of Ouzo, offering different alcohol strengths and slightly different tastes. Ouzo easily connects to mainstream Cypriot culture and goes hand in hand with the infamous Cyprus meze. The drink is said to compliment the wide variety of meze appetizers and enjoying a glass or two of the drink, with friends around a table, is a proven social experiment that has helped to strengthen bonds across the island.Â
THE BENEFITS OF DRINKING OUZO
Studies completed by various institutions over the years have identified that Ouzo offers distinctive health benefits if taken in moderation. Here are some of the documented benefits of drinking ouzo.
1. Digestive Aid: The strong aniseed qualities of the drink settle the stomach and aids digestion.
2. Relaxation: Properties in the strong alcoholic beverage helps to relax the body and mind.
3. Inflammation: Ouzo is rich in antioxidants that reduce inflammation in the body and protect against oxidative stress.
4. Heart Health: Ouzo is rich in antioxidants that also reduce the risk of heart disease and improves overall cardiovascular health.
5. Neurological diseases: Ouzo is rich in antioxidants that protect cells from neurological diseases.
6. Liver Disease: Ouzo is rich in antioxidants that protect cells from liver diseases.
7. Blood Pressure: Ouzo in moderation dilates blood vessels, which in turn lowers blood pressure.
