Tsipouro is a traditional Greek spirit that is made from the distillation of grape pomace. It is a clear, strong spirit that is often enjoyed as an aperitif or a digestif. While it is commonly enjoyed neat or on the rocks, it can also be used as a base for cocktails.
Tsipouro Sour
2 oz tsipouro
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
1 dash of Angostura bitters
Lemon wedge for garnish
Instructions: In a shaker, combine the tsipouro, lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lemon wedge.
Greek Spritz
2 oz tsipouro
1 oz Aperol
2 oz soda water
Orange slice for garnish
Instructions: In a glass filled with ice, combine the tsipouro and Aperol. Top with soda water and stir gently. Garnish with an orange slice.
Tsipouro Martini
2 oz tsipouro
1/2 oz dry vermouth
Lemon twist for garnish
Instructions: In a shaker, combine the tsipouro and dry vermouth with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Tsipouro Old Fashioned
Ingredients:
2 oz tsipouro
1/4 oz simple syrup
2 dashes of Angostura bitters
Orange peel
Instructions:
In a mixing glass, combine the tsipouro, simple syrup, and bitters with ice.
Stir well until the cocktail is well chilled.
Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a twist of orange peel.
Tsipouro Margarita
Ingredients:
2 oz tsipouro
1 oz lime juice
1/2 oz Cointreau
Salt for rim
Lime wheel
Instructions:
Rim a rocks glass with salt.
In a shaker, combine the tsipouro, lime juice, and Cointreau with ice.
Shake well until the cocktail is well chilled.
Strain into the prepared rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a lime wheel.
What Can Tsipouro be Mixed With?
Tsipouro is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with a variety of ingredients to create delicious cocktails. Here are some ingredients that tsipouro can be mixed with:
Citrus: Tsipouro’s high alcohol content and crisp flavor profile make it a great match for citrus. Lemon, lime, and grapefruit are popular choices for tsipouro cocktails.
Bitters: Bitters are a common ingredient in classic cocktails and can add depth and complexity to tsipouro drinks. Angostura bitters, orange bitters, and Peychaud’s bitters are all great options.
Vermouth: Vermouth is a fortified wine that is often used in classic cocktails like the martini and the Manhattan. Dry vermouth or sweet vermouth can both be used to create tsipouro cocktails with a unique twist.
Liqueurs: Liqueurs are sweetened spirits that can add flavor and complexity to tsipouro cocktails. Cointreau, Aperol, and Campari are all popular choices.
Fruit juice: Fresh fruit juice can add a refreshing, fruity twist to tsipouro cocktails. Pineapple, grapefruit, and pomegranate juice are all great options.
Soda water: Soda water can be used to add fizz and lighten up tsipouro cocktails. It can also help to balance out the strong flavor of the spirit.
Overall, tsipouro can be mixed with a wide variety of ingredients to create delicious and unique cocktails. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite tsipouro drink.
Fast Facts About Tsipouro
What is Tsipouro?
Tsipouro is a traditional Greek distilled spirit that is made from the pomace (grape skins, seeds, and stems) left over from winemaking. It is a clear, strong spirit that typically has an alcohol content of around 40-45% ABV.
What is the Proof of Tsipouro?
The proof of tsipouro varies depending on the alcohol content, but it is typically around 80-90 proof.
What are the Different Types of Tsipouro?
There are two main types of tsipouro: pure tsipouro and anise-flavored tsipouro. Pure tsipouro is made solely from grape pomace and has a clean, crisp flavor. Anise-flavored tsipouro, on the other hand, is made by adding anise seeds to the distillation process, giving it a distinctive licorice flavor.
What is the Difference Between Tsipouro and Other Types of Distilled Spirits?
Tsipouro is similar to other grape-based distilled spirits like Italian grappa and French marc, but it has its own unique flavor and character. Unlike some other spirits, tsipouro is typically not aged, so it retains the fresh, fruity flavors of the grapes. Tsipouro is also different from other Greek spirits like ouzo and raki, which are typically flavored with anise and other herbs.
What is the Best Brand of Tsipouro?
There are many excellent tsipouro producers in Greece, and the best brand will depend on your personal taste preferences. Some popular brands include Tsilili, Boutari, and Tsantali. It’s also worth seeking out artisanal producers who make small-batch, high-quality tsipouro using traditional methods.