What drinks did the ancient Greeks drink?

Answered by Joseph Vos

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have always been fascinated by the drinking habits of ancient civilizations. When it comes to the ancient Greeks, their choices were quite diverse. While the gods may have indulged in Nectar, the drink of the gods, ordinary Greeks had a range of options to quench their thirst.

was undoubtedly the most common and basic drink consumed by the ancient Greeks. They would source water from various natural springs or wells. However, it is important to note that the Greeks were well aware of the potential health risks associated with drinking unclean water. To mitigate this, they often added or vinegar to their water, as they believed it would purify it and make it safer to consume.

Wine held a special place in Greek society and was an integral part of their culture. It was consumed regularly by people of all social classes and was often seen as a symbol of civilization and sophistication. The Greeks were known for their vineyards and wine production, which they considered an art form. Wine was typically diluted with water before being consumed, a practice known as “krasis.” This diluted wine was enjoyed during meals, social gatherings, and religious ceremonies.

Milk was another common beverage among the ancient Greeks. It was primarily consumed by children and the elderly, as it was believed to provide essential nutrients and promote good health. Milk was often used to make various dairy products such as cheese and yogurt, which were also consumed by the Greeks.

Fruit juices played a significant role in the Greek diet, especially during the reign of Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC. Chilled fruit juices were highly popular and refreshing, particularly during the hot summer months. These juices were made by extracting the liquid from fruits such as grapes, pomegranates, figs, and even citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. To enhance the flavor, honey and spices were sometimes added.

Honey itself was considered a valuable and versatile ingredient in ancient Greece. It was not only used as a sweetener but also as a key component in various drinks. One such beverage was “melikraton,” a mixture of honey and wine that was often consumed as a medicinal remedy for ailments such as sore throats and coughs.

Interestingly, the ancient Greeks also had a fondness for -like drinks. Although beer as we know it today was not common in ancient Greece, they did have a fermented barley beverage called “zythum” or “zythos.” This drink, similar to beer, was enjoyed by both men and women and had a lower content compared to wine.

To summarize the drinks consumed by the ancient Greeks:

– Water, often mixed with wine or vinegar to purify it
– Wine, diluted with water and consumed regularly
– Milk, primarily consumed by children and the elderly
– Fruit juices, particularly chilled and refreshing during hot weather
– Honey, used as a sweetener and ingredient in various drinks
– “Zythum” or barley-based fermented beverages, resembling beer

It is fascinating to explore the drinking habits of ancient civilizations like the Greeks, as it provides insight into their daily lives and cultural practices. The variety of beverages they enjoyed reflects their ingenuity and appreciation for different flavors and textures. As a sommelier and brewer, I find it inspiring to connect with the drinking traditions of our ancestors and discover how they have shaped our drinking culture.