🥃 Tsipouro
Greek spirit made from grape pomace, sometimes with anise.
Tsipouro is a Greek spirit distilled from grape pomace: the skins, seeds and stems left after pressing the juice. The pomace is distilled, giving a clear strong drink. Sometimes anise is added, and then the taste is close to ouzo.
Tsipouro is especially loved in the north of Greece, but it is drunk across the country. On the island of Crete a similar drink is called tsikoudia. Tsipouro is served in small glasses, usually with food, with meze: fish, olives, cheese. It is not meant to be drunk in one gulp.
It is the Greek version of a wider group of pomace spirits. The group also includes Italian grappa, Georgian chacha and Cypriot zivania. Tsipouro is linked to Greek wine because it is made from winemaking leftovers. Like any strong spirit, it calls for moderation. It is sold in bottles, and the strength is usually printed on the label. Quality depends on the pomace and on how carefully the distillation is done.
Links
- Part of
- 🥃 Pomace brandy
- Where it is made
- 🗺️ Greek wine
- Similar and different
- 🥃 Pomace brandy, 🥃 Zivania, 🥃 Ouzo
Frequently asked questions
What is tsipouro?
A strong Greek spirit distilled from grape pomace, sometimes with anise.
How is tsipouro different from ouzo?
Ouzo always contains anise, while tsipouro can be made without it.
What is tsipouro similar to?
Italian grappa and Georgian chacha: all are made from pomace.
Similar
🥃 Törkölypálinka · 🥃 Marc · 🥃 Orujo · 🥃 Zivania · 🥃 Grappa · 🥃 Chacha
⚠️ Wine contains alcohol: adults only, drink in moderation. Wine usually contains sulphites; egg white or milk proteins are sometimes used for fining — important for allergies and for vegans.