There is brandy produced in Greece. Greece has a long history of winemaking and distillation, and brandy is just one of the spirits that they produce. Greek brandy is made from various grape varieties, and it offers a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from brandies produced in other countries.
In Greece, brandy is often made from indigenous grape varieties such as Savatiano, Sultanina, and Korinthiakos. These grapes are well-suited for distillation and produce a rich and aromatic base wine, which is then distilled to create the brandy. The use of indigenous grape varieties gives Greek brandy a distinct character and a sense of terroir, reflecting the unique qualities of the Greek vineyards.
The process of making Greek brandy typically involves column distillation. This method allows for precise control over the distillation process and helps to preserve the delicate flavors and aromas of the grapes. Column distillation also allows for the production of a clean and smooth spirit, which is highly desirable in brandy.
One of the key factors that contribute to the quality of Greek brandy is the base wine used for distillation. Greece is known for its high-quality wines, and this same attention to quality is carried over to the production of brandy. The base wine used for distillation is carefully selected and fermented to create a flavorful and well-balanced wine that serves as the foundation for the brandy.
In terms of sourcing, Metaxa, a well-known Greek brandy producer, sources about 80% of its base brandy from distillers in Spain and Italy. This allows them to access high-quality brandy distillate from these countries, which is then blended with brandy produced in Greece. The use of brandy distillate from different sources adds complexity and depth to the final product.
Greek brandy offers a unique and flavorful alternative to brandies produced in other parts of the world. Its use of indigenous grape varieties, column distillation, and attention to quality make it a distinct and enjoyable spirit. Whether enjoyed on its own or used in cocktails, Greek brandy is a testament to the rich tradition of distillation in Greece.