Ouzo, a dry anise-flavored aperitif, is widely consumed in Greece and shares similarities with other anise liquors like pastis, sambuca, rakı, and arak. With roots in the 14th-century tsipouro, modern ouzo distillation gained momentum in the 19th century after Greek independence. Rich in local botanicals and traditional methods, Lesvos distilleries, such as the renowned Ouzo Lesvion, are dedicated to quality, tradition, and authenticity.
Ouzo is typically mixed with water, served with ice cubes and mezes, and has a smooth licorice-like taste. In 2006, the European Union granted ouzo a Protected Designation of Origin, solidifying its status as an exclusively Greek product. Discover the rich history and craftsmanship behind the island’s finest ouzo and the distilleries that create it.
Ouzo Lesvion
“Ouzo Lesvion” offers an exquisite, time-honored journey of taste, crafted by the skilled hands of the Kourtis family since 1920. In the charming town of Plomari, they have perfected the art of ouzo, combining high-quality Lesbian aniseed and local herbs with respect for tradition. This secret recipe produces a spirit as authentic as the island’s rich history. Aged for 30-40 days before bottling, the ouzo unveils a captivating aroma, transporting one to a quaint 1920s Greek café. A true testament to the family’s dedication to quality, tradition, and authenticity.
Address: 2 km National Road of Mytilene – Thermi, 811 00 Phone: +30 22510 27100 Website: www.ouzolesvion.gr
Ouzo Mytilinis Samara
The Samara Distillery, Mytilene’s hidden gem, has been enveloping the island with heavenly aromas and sensations since Efstratios Samaras relocated his distillery from Prussa, Asia Minor in 1896. Established by Stratis, a man who moved mountains for love, the distillery stands as a testament to an undying devotion to both a woman and the art of ouzo-making. Four generations later, the Samaras family continues to craft this divine concoction, staying true to their roots, founder’s principles, and the secret cask that started it all. As modern technology meets tradition, the love for ouzo remains unaltered.
Address: Papados Geras, Lesvos, 811 06 Phone: +30 22510 83001 Website: www.ouzosamara.gr
Ouzo Veto
Spentza’s Distillery, established in 1892 by Giorgis Spentzas, weaves a story crossing generations and lands. From its origins in Pergamon, Asia Minor, to its current home in Mytilene, Lesvos as “Mytilene’s Ouzo VETO,” the zeal for ouzo transcends time. Upholding principles of quality, consistency, and ingenuity, this distillery broke ground with metal container bottling. In 2013, Dimitris Spentzas infused the legacy with fresh perspectives and revitalized energy. With revamped packaging and an expanded product line featuring a 100% distillate, Ouzo VETO remains an emblem of Mytilene’s authentic ouzo craftsmanship.
Address: James Aristarchou 1, 811 31 Phone: +30 22510 24660 Website: www.ouzoveto.gr
Ouzo Barbayannis
Journey back to 1860, when Efstathios J. Barbayannis arrived in Plomari, Lesvos, carrying knowledge and expertise in distillation from Odessa. Amidst a bustling port and fertile land, Efstathios crafted the exceptional Ouzo Barbayanni Blue. For 160 years, five generations of the Barbayannis family have fiercely guarded their secret recipe and traditional distillation methods, resulting in the finest Greek ouzo liquor. At their state-of-the-art facility in Plomari, they seamlessly blend technology with history and tradition. The world-renowned Barbayannis ouzo aperitif is a testament to their unwavering dedication to quality and the pursuit of perfection.
Address: Plomari, 812 00, Lesvos Phone: +30 22520 32741, +30 22520 33300 Website: www.barbayanni-ouzo.com
EVA Greek Distillery Company
In the heart of Mytilene, the EVA Distillery, embodies the Patrikopoulos siblings passion for flavors and and botanical blending, tracing back to their exotic recipes of Pergamon, Asia Minor. Harmoniously intertwining legacy and cutting-edge technology, the distillery showcases avant-garde copper stills, advanced bottling systems, and an insightful laboratory. Ascending the ranks as a top ten rapidly-growing distillery, EVA’s products grace tables in Greece and 22 nations globally. A visit to EVA unveils a sensory journey: observe the enchanting ouzo-making process, delve into the historical museum, and relish the rich taste of ouzo in an evocative, 1930s-inspired cafe.
Αddress: Pagani, 811 00, Mitilini Phone: +30 22510 23700 Website: www.eva-distillery.gr
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