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Explorer Rethymno: Tsikoudia (Raki) – The National Spirit of Crete

🥃 Tsikoudia (Raki): The National Spirit of Crete! 🔥

If there is one flavor that defines Cretan hospitality, it is Tsikoudia (widely known as Raki). As your Rethymno Explorer, we invite you to discover the soul of our island in a glass. It’s not just a drink; it’s a symbol of friendship, celebration, and a warm welcome. 🤝

What is Tsikoudia? It is a strong, transparent distillate produced from grape pomace (the remains of grapes after pressing for wine). It is served chilled and usually offered as a free treat (ikram) after your meal in every Cretan tavern!

✨ The Journey of Raki: From Vine to Glass

The production of raki is a centuries-old tradition. Here is how we make it at Explorer Rethymno:

The Grape Pomace (Stemfyla): After the grapes are pressed for wine, the skins and seeds are stored in barrels for about 40 days to ferment naturally.
The Rakokazano: The fermented pomace is placed in large copper cauldrons, called "rakokazana," and heated over a low wood fire.
Distillation: The alcohol vapors rise, cool down, and are collected as a crystal-clear spirit—the famous Tsikoudia!
The Celebration: The "Kazani" season (October-November) is a major festival in Crete. Families and friends gather around the cauldron with food, music, and dance while the fresh raki flows.

🍯 Looking for something sweeter?

If you prefer a milder taste, try Rakomelo! It is raki warmed with mountain honey and cinnamon—perfect for cold winter nights or as a soothing digestive after dinner.

Raise your glass and say "Stin ygeia mas!" (To our health!) 🥂