Top 10 Ouzo Producers in Greece

Greece is renowned for its production of ouzo, an anise-flavored spirit that is a staple in Greek culture. Ouzo is traditionally made by distilling alcohol with anise, fennel, and other herbs, resulting in a clear drink that turns milky white when mixed with water. Here are the top 10 ouzo producers in Greece:

1. Ouzo Plomari

Ouzo Plomari is one of the most famous ouzo brands in Greece, known for its smooth and authentic flavor. The company was founded in 1894 in Plomari, a small town on the island of Lesvos. Ouzo Plomari uses traditional methods of production, including distillation in copper stills and aging in oak barrels. The company’s ouzo is characterized by its strong anise flavor and hints of fennel and other herbs.

2. Barbayanni Ouzo

Barbayanni Ouzo is another well-known ouzo producer in Greece, with a history dating back to 1860. The company is based in Athens and is known for its high-quality ouzo made from pure alcohol and select herbs. Barbayanni Ouzo is characterized by its smooth taste and subtle notes of anise and other botanicals.

3. Katsaros Ouzo

Katsaros Ouzo is a family-owned distillery located in Tyrnavos, a town in central Greece. The company has been producing ouzo since 1933 and is known for its traditional methods of production. Katsaros Ouzo is made from organic ingredients, including anise, fennel, and coriander, resulting in a complex and flavorful spirit.

4. Varvayiannis Ouzo

Varvayiannis Ouzo is a boutique ouzo producer located in Plomari, the same town where Ouzo Plomari originated. The company was founded in 1909 and is known for its small-batch production and attention to detail. Varvayiannis Ouzo is made from high-quality ingredients and is characterized by its rich flavor and smooth finish.

5. Ouzo 12

Ouzo 12 is one of the most popular ouzo brands in Greece, known for its distinctive blue bottle and bold flavor. The company was founded in 1880 and is based in Athens. Ouzo 12 is made from a unique blend of herbs and spices, resulting in a complex and aromatic spirit with a hint of sweetness.

6. Mini Ouzo

Mini Ouzo is a small-batch ouzo producer located in the village of Plaka in Crete. The company was founded in 1987 and is known for its artisanal approach to ouzo production. Mini Ouzo uses locally sourced ingredients, including organic anise and fennel, to create a smooth and flavorful spirit.

7. Tsantali Ouzo

Tsantali Ouzo is produced by the Tsantali family, one of the oldest and most respected wine and spirits producers in Greece. The company was founded in 1890 and is based in Halkidiki, a region known for its high-quality grapes and herbs. Tsantali Ouzo is characterized by its rich aroma and balanced flavor profile.

8. Ouzo Methana

Ouzo Methana is a boutique ouzo producer located on the island of Methana in the Saronic Gulf. The company was founded in 1995 and is known for its artisanal approach to ouzo production. Ouzo Methana uses traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients to create a smooth and aromatic spirit.

9. Ouzo Finikas

Ouzo Finikas is a family-owned distillery located in the village of Finikas on the island of Syros. The company has been producing ouzo since 1957 and is known for its high-quality ingredients and authentic flavor. Ouzo Finikas is characterized by its smooth taste and subtle notes of anise and citrus.

10. Ouzo Metaxa

Ouzo Metaxa is produced by the Metaxa family, one of the most famous spirits producers in Greece. The company was founded in 1888 and is based in Athens. Ouzo Metaxa is made from a blend of high-quality ingredients, including anise, fennel, and coriander, resulting in a complex and aromatic spirit.
In conclusion, Greece is home to a wide variety of ouzo producers, each with its own unique approach to production and flavor profile. Whether you prefer a traditional ouzo with strong anise notes or a more modern interpretation with subtle botanicals, there is a Greek ouzo for every palate.