Mastic Ouzo is a unique type of Greek liqueur made from the sap of a mastic tree, grown only on the island of Chios, Greece. While the traditional Greek liqueur is called mastika, when produced from this specific tree, it is called mastic ouzo. This distinct flavor of ouzo has become popular among those lookng for an alternative to other anise-flavored liqueurs such as sambuca and pastis.
Mastic ouzo is produced in a manner similar to other types of ouzo—by distilling ethyl alcohol with aniseed and other herbs and spices. The distinctive ingredient in mastic ouzo that sets it apart from the other varieties is mastic—a resin derived from the sap of mastic trees. After being distilled with ethyl alcohol and mixed with other herbs and spices, mastic ouzo takes on a unique flavor profile that has been described as woody, earthy, musky, sweet, and even slightly vanilla-like.
Unlike some other types of liqueurs which are meant to be consumed neat or on the rocks, mastic ouzo is best enjoyed chilled or over ice with water added to dilute it down to a more drinkable level. When served this way it will simultaneously lighten up its color while also releasing more of its aroma and flavor. Mastic ouzo can also be used in many different cocktails for an added twist as well as for cooking in recipes like osso buco or any seafood dish that calls for white wine or Pernod.
If you're looking for something new to try in terms of alcoholic beverages then look no further than mastic ouzo! Its unique flavor profile will provide you with a completely new set of sensations that will linger pleasantly on your palate long after you've finished your glass!
Comparing Mastic and Ouzo
No, mastic and ouzo are not the same. Ouzo is a Greek anise liqueur, while mastic is a resin obtained from the bark of certain evergreen trees. It has been used in Greece for centuries to make mastika, a type of liqueur similar to ouzo. Greek mastika is made by distilling mastic with aniseed and other herbs and spices, giving it a strong aniseed flavor. However, in other countries throughout the Balkans, mastika is made differently and does not contain mastic; instead, it is made from different ingredients that give it a similar flavor to ouzo.
What Is the Taste of Mastic?
Mastic has a unique and distinct flavour that is often described as earthy and musky, with hints of vanilla. It is also quite woody in taste, with subtle notes of pine, spices, and herbs. The flavour of mastic can be quite strong when consumed raw but mellows out when cooked or used in food preparations.
The Strength of Ouzo
Ouzo is a strong alcoholic drink that is produced through distillation of a variety of herbs and spices. The alcohol content of ouzo can range from 37-60%, with most brands beig closer to the higher end. This is due to the fact that ouzo is distilled multiple times, creating a stronger, more concentrated spirit. Additionally, ouzo contains sugar, which can also contribute to its strength. Sugar makes ouzo more palatable and adds body to the drink, but it also has the effect of increasing its alcohol content. The combination of high alcohol content and sugar makes ouzo one of the strongest drinks available.
Conclusion
Mastic ouzo is a unique Greek liqueur with a distinctive flavor. Produced from the sap of a tree that only exists on the Greek island of Chios, it boasts an earthy, musky, and vanilla-like taste. It can be served as an aperitif or as a digestive and is used in many products such as liqueurs, spoon sweets, beverages, chewing gum, sweets, desserts, breads and cheese. Mastic ouzo is definitely worth trying for its unique flavor and it will leave you with a pleasant sweet touch on the palate.
