Because of its newfound popularity, traditional tsipouro started also being referred to as ouzo. There are a number of theories to the etymology of its name. A leading theory is that it’s derived from “uzum”, the Turkish word for “grapes”. Otherwise, the Ancient Greeks believed that anise helped with pain relief, difficult urination, and reduced thirst. However, anise is a well-known carminative and helps settle the digestive tract, which decreases bloating and reduces flatulence. The General Wine Company sources wines from all over the world, but with a particular focus on small, independent producers. The company's buyers travel extensively to meet with winemakers and taste their wines, ensuring that they only offer the best of the best.

In Bulgaria and North Macedonia, the similar beverage is called mastika ( Macedonian: Мастика / Bulgarian: Мастика), a name that is shared by the distinct Greek liquor mastika which is flavored with mastic crystals. Most commonly it is consumed as an aperitif, usually poured over ice to release its aroma and flavors, and enjoyed with meze. Containing 43–45% alcohol, it has a hot taste, not unlike that of brandy, and is usually made from grapes. In North Macedonia, mastika has traditionally been made in the Strumica area. [ citation needed] See also [ edit ] This section needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sourcesin this section. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. ( March 2022) ( Learn how and when to remove this template message) Because different distilleries employ their own unique techniques and recipes in the production of Ouzo, the taste can vary a bit from one brand to the next. Here, we will guide you through the best Ouzo brands to make your decision a bit easier when you are planning for your next Greek dinner. References wikipedia.org/wiki/Ouzo Guests are then expected to serve themselves a small amount in a long glass, add ice cubes, and then top it up with water from a nearby jug. The quantity of water added is a matter of personal preference. Some people will dilute it just until it louches whereas others may water it down even more.Ouzo is usually mixed with water, becoming cloudy white, sometimes with a faint blue tinge, and served with ice cubes in a small glass. Ouzo can also be drunk straight from a shot glass.

Hailing from Greece and Cyprus, Ouzo is an aniseed based liqueur, often enjoyed as an aperitif on these Mediterranean islands.

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Like most alcoholic spirits, a moderate amount can aid the intestine in absorbing iron from food as well as reduce blood pressure by dilating the blood vessels.