Literally, “Apéritif” means “appetizer”. The aperitif is usually made up of an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage, appetizers to tantalize the taste buds and friends for a moment of conviviality. In this article, we give you a few suggestions for organizing and sharing a pleasant moment around an aperitif with the flavors of Greece.
Which drink to choose?
In Greece, Ouzo is considered the “national” drink. This fiery, aniseed-flavored spirit is a hit with Greeks and visitors alike. C’est une invitation au voyage, un symbole de partage et de bonheur.
Ouzo is distilled from a minimum of 30% grape residue. Depending on the recipe, they also add aniseed, coriander, cloves and cardamom pods. These spices give it its distinctive taste. Purists enjoy Ouzo in small glasses, with just a few ice cubes. To give it a more refreshing character, you can add a few centilitres of water. You’ll notice a lovely opalescence in your glass.
If aniseed flavors aren’t to your taste, don’t worry, Ellados Shop offers a magnificent selection of red, rosé, white and orange wines from the best vineyards in the Peloponnese. served chilled or at room temperature, they will enhance your best culinary preparations.
What mezzes to suggest?
In Greek tavernas, Ouzo is always served with the famous mezzes. To organize an aperitif with the flavors of Greece, it’s important to select these typically Greek delicacies. The Ellados Shop invites you to choose from a range of carefully selected delicacies. Enjoy Kalamata olives, cheese-stuffed peppers and Dolmadakia (stuffed vine leaves). Dip the famous pita bread into our creamy tzatziki or generous hummus. You can add dried fruit, marinated vegetables and a few cubes of feta seasoned with oregano and olive oil to your aperitif. You’ll find a wonderful selection of organic extra virgin oils in our grocery store. Enjoy the incomparable flavors of Ellados Alpha, Beta and Omega on a piece of bread, simply to take full advantage of their fruity notes.
To finish off and create a typically Greek atmosphere for your convivial moment, you can add a few notes of decoration. To do so, play with colors….white linen tablecloths, blue ceramic plates and bowls, or gray ones, will evoke the colors of the famous Greek seaside villages. Set sail for Kythera or the Cyclades….To embellish your tablecloth, consider arranging a pretty table runner composed of a few intertwined olive and oregano branches, citrus fruits, flowers and candles…it will exude exquisite scents. To complete the ambience, play traditional Greek music in the background. You’ll be transported to the most beautiful tavernas of the Peloponnese.
In conclusion, wherever you go, let yourself be carried away by the magic of Ouzo, the flavors of Peloponnesian wines and, of course, our selection of Mezze! Let your friends discover the culinary authenticity and art of living of this magnificent country. And like the Greeks, when it’s time to toast, raise your glasses and shout… “Yamas”!!!!