Athens: Ouzo Tasting at Brettos Plaka

Discover the rich history and diverse flavors of Greece’s beloved spirit, ouzo, with a guided tasting at the iconic Brettos Bar in the heart of Athens’ Plaka neighborhood. Amid the charming ambiance of the country’s oldest distillery, you’ll sample five distinct varieties of this anise-infused liquor, gaining insights from knowledgeable hosts on the nuances of each label. Whether you’re a seasoned ouzo enthusiast or new to this Greek tradition, this intimate tasting promises to transport you on a captivating journey through the country’s vibrant drinking culture.

Key Points

• Opportunity to sample five distinct varieties of traditional Greek ouzo liquor at the historic Brettos Bar in the Plaka district of Athens.
• Tasting experience led by knowledgeable hosts who provide insights into the distillation process and flavor profiles of the aniseed-based spirits.
• Intimate group setting with a maximum of 10 participants, allowing for a personalized and immersive experience.
• Alcohol content ranging from 40% to 50% ABV, offering a chance to explore the nuances of the ouzo’s strength and smoothness.
• Simple booking process with a reserve now, pay later option and flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

This ouzo tasting experience takes place at the historic Brettos Bar in the Plaka neighborhood of Athens.

It lasts 30 minutes and is limited to 10 participants for an intimate, small-group setting. Guests can expect to sample five different varieties of the anise-flavored spirit, ranging from 40% to 50% alcohol by volume.

The tasting is led by knowledgeable hosts who provide insightful commentary on the distillation process and flavor profiles.

Knowledgeable hosts provide insightful commentary on the distillation process and flavor profiles during this intimate ouzo tasting experience.

Booking is simple with a reserve now, pay later option, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This unique activity is likely to sell out, so guests should reserve their spot early.

About Ouzo

Ouzo is Greece’s most popular traditional distilled alcoholic beverage. This aniseed-flavored spirit is produced from aniseed plants, fennel, and star anise. The distinct flavor is linked to anethole, an essential oil extracted from these plants.

Ouzo is exclusively made in Greece and has a high alcohol volume, typically ranging from 40% to 50% ABV. The distillation process can vary, with some ouzo being single, double, triple, quadruple, or even five times distilled, resulting in stronger yet smoother spirits.

This unique production method contributes to ouzo’s distinctive character and reputation.

Ouzo Varieties

As the article mentions, there are five different labels of ouzo available for tasting, each with its own distinct alcohol content.

The Blue ouzo has 40% alcohol, while the Gold has 42%. The Green is 46% alcohol, the Red is 48%, and the Black is the strongest at 50%.

The distillation process varies, ranging from single to five times distilled, resulting in stronger yet smoother spirits.

Each label offers a unique flavor profile, allowing tasters to explore the nuances of this traditional Greek aniseed-flavored liquor.

Experience Highlights

Visitors can look forward to an authentic ouzo tasting experience at the oldest distillery in Greece, Brettos in Plaka. Knowledgeable hosts will provide insightful commentary on the differences between five distinct ouzo varieties, from the 40% alcohol Blue to the 50% alcohol Black.

Attendees can savor the aniseed-forward flavors and appreciate the nuances in aroma and smoothness resulting from the varying distillation processes. The beautiful, historic space and friendly atmosphere highlighted in positive customer reviews contribute to making this a memorable small-group activity.

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Booking Information

How can travelers reserve this ouzo tasting experience? The process is simple and flexible.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later to maintain their travel plans. Availability can be checked for starting times and the desired number of participants.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later to maintain their travel plans. Availability can be checked for starting times and the desired number of participants.

However, note that:

• Hotel transfer isn’t included.

• Food and other drinks aren’t provided.

• The tasting takes place at the basement of Brettos Bar, the meeting point.

About Brettos Bar

Brettos Bar, located in the heart of Plaka, is the oldest distillery in Greece. Founded in 1909, the family-owned hotel has been producing ouzo for over a century. The bar’s unique atmosphere features an impressive display of over 3,000 bottles of liquor lining the walls, creating a stunning visual experience.

| Brettos Bar Facts | | |

|——————–|——————-|——————-|

| Established | 1909 | Oldest distillery in Greece |

| Owned | Family-owned | Over a century of history |

| Atmosphere | Impressive display| 3,000+ liquor bottles |

| Experience | Ouzo tasting | Knowledgeable hosts |

The ouzo tasting experience at Brettos Bar offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Greece’s national spirit. Guests can explore the nuances of different ouzo varieties while immersed in the bar’s rich history and lively ambiance.

What to Expect During the Tasting

At the start of the tasting, guests will be welcomed into the historic Brettos Bar, where they’ll be ushered downstairs to a cozy tasting room.

The knowledgeable hosts will guide the group through a comparison of five distinct varieties of ouzo, ranging from 40% to 50% alcohol content.

Guests will have the opportunity to:

• Savor the aroma and flavor profiles of each ouzo

• Observe the unique distillation processes that create the varying strengths

• Ask questions and learn about the rich history and cultural significance of this Greek spirit

The intimate setting and insightful commentary create an engaging and immersive ouzo experience.

Tips for Enjoying Ouzo

While ouzo is best enjoyed slowly, sipping it over ice or with a splash of water, there are a few tips to keep in mind for getting the most out of this iconic Greek spirit.

Swirl the ouzo in the glass to release the aroma, then take small sips to appreciate the layered flavors. Pay attention to the way the spirit changes as it mixes with water, developing a cloudy, milky appearance.

Pair ouzo with traditional Greek meze dishes like olives, feta, and dolmades to balance the bold anise taste.

With a little knowledge, you’ll savor every sip of this beloved Greek aperitif.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks to the Tasting?

According to the information provided, it doesn’t seem like participants can bring their own food or drinks to the ouzo tasting. The experience details state that food and other drinks are not included in the tasting.

Is This Activity Suitable for Children?

This tasting experience is aimed at adults and may not be the most suitable for children. While there are no strict age limits, the activity focuses on sampling various types of ouzo, which is an alcohol-based Greek spirit.

Do I Need to Know Anything About Ouzo Beforehand?

No, you don’t need to know anything about ouzo beforehand. The tasting experience provides an informative introduction to this traditional Greek spirit, including insights into its history, production, and distinct flavor profiles from the knowledgeable hosts.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tasting?

There’s no strict dress code for the ouzo tasting. Guests can wear casual, comfortable attire. The focus is on enjoying the tasting experience, so there’s no need to dress up.

Can I Purchase Bottles of Ouzo at the End of the Tasting?

Yes, visitors can purchase bottles of ouzo at the end of the tasting. The tasting takes place at Brettos, Greece’s oldest distillery, which has a retail shop on-site where you can buy various ouzo labels and other Greek spirits.

Sum Up

Discover the rich heritage of Greek spirits at Brettos Bar in Plaka, Athens. Experience a captivating 30-minute ouzo tasting as you sample five distinct varieties, guided by knowledgeable hosts. Enjoy the charm of Greece’s oldest distillery and deepen your appreciation for this beloved aniseed-flavored liquor. With easy booking options, it’s a must-do for any ouzo enthusiast visiting the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: