A TOAST TO CYPRIOT OUZO
WHAT IS OUZO?
Ouzo is an aniseed-flavoured spirit that is derived from the by-products of the winemaking process. Originating from Greece, this refreshing alcoholic drink has had a strong presence in Cyprus for at least 500 years. Whilst recipes for Ouzo may vary, it will always include distilled anise. Several other botanical spices are also used to create the spirit, but it must contain no less than 20% of the original Ouzo yeast. The alcohol volume should measure at least 37.5% by volume after the process of creating the drink is complete.
THE MONKS OF PATMOS
The isolated monks of Mount Athos, on the Greek island of Patmos, first produced Ouzo for medicinal purposes back to the 14th century. These monks used anise seeds to distil alcohol and then mixed in a variety of herbs and spices to create early versions of the drink. Visitors to the island took the drink away with them, and it soon spread throughout Greece, becoming the local drink of choice. As the drink spread across international borders, the unique alcoholic drink of choice was soon revered throughout the world.
EMBRACED BY CYPRIOTS
Merchant shipping is thought to have brought the drink to Cypriot shores a little later. Cypriots immediately embraced the drink, and production of a Cypriot version began very soon thereafter. Cypriot Ouzo has become a Cypriot staple ever since and remains a popular choice that is taken all year round. It is often served with seasonal fruit or alongside a hearty Cyprus meze.
CYPRUS OUZO
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, but the Cypriot version tends to be smoother and slightly sweeter, maintaining a stronger aniseed flavour throughout. In some circles, it is also taken as a pre-dinner aperitif or an after-dinner digestif. Ouzo has also spread into the kitchen and is often used to add a distinctive aniseed flavour to certain Mediterranean and Cypriot dishes.
COCKTAILS OF CHOICE
The dry anise-flavoured spirit gained international recognition with the advent of tourism. Tourists from all over the world embraced the unique tasting drink, and as a result, several new refreshing cocktails have been created using Ouzo as the main ingredient.
NO ICE FOR THIS DRINK
Adding ice to Ouzo causes its surface to crystallise, so it is often mixed with ice-cold water instead. The clear colourless drink turns cloudy white with the addition of water, and this has come to be known as the ‘Ouzo effect’.
A PROTECTED STATUS
The drink enjoys protected status, meaning that it can only be processed in Greece or Cyprus. It currently holds a PROTECTED GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION IN EUROPE (PGI) and a PROTECTED DESIGNATION OF ORIGIN (PDO). Both accreditations grant the product exclusive rights to the name Ouzo.
CYPRIOT CULTURE
Traditional taverns and most bars across the island often stock different types of Ouzo. Several of the offerings have 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 complement the wide variety of meze appetisers, 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.
THE MONKS OF PATMOS
THE OUZO EFFECT
A DRINK OF CHOICE
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.
