Tekirdag Rakisi Gold Series
Tekirdag Rakisi Gold Series is Turkey's classic anise spirit in its premium expression — 100% fresh-grape suma (distillate of fermented grape juice) re-distilled with high-quality aniseed from Çeşme in traditional copper alembics, then rested in oak barrels for a minimum of 90 days. Bottled at 45% ABV, the oak rest gives the Gold Series its signature golden color and velvety texture. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 45% (90 proof)
- Size: 700mL
- Origin: Tekirdağ region, Turkey
- Production: 100% grape suma; double-distilled in copper alembics with Çeşme aniseed; minimum 90 days oak rest
- Serve: chilled at 8-10°C, neat, diluted with water, or over ice — clouds to "lion's milk"
Turkey's Golden Anise Spirit
Rakı is Turkey's national spirit, and Tekirdağ's Gold Series is its polished face — the double-distilled grape spirit carries the anise cleanly, and the minimum 90-day oak rest rounds it into something unusually smooth for 45%. Add water or ice and it blooms into the milky "aslan sütü" (lion's milk) that is rakı's calling card. Browse the Tekirdag Rakisi collection and Del Mesa's anise-flavored and clear spirits.
Tasting Notes
Expect fresh anise and fennel up front, with grape spirit sweetness and a creamy, almost oily texture from the oak rest. The finish is long and cooling — anise, white pepper, and a whisper of vanilla.
How to Enjoy
Chilled at 8-10°C, neat or diluted with cold water over ice, alongside meze — grilled fish, olives, cheese, and lamb are the classic pairings. Never rush it; rakı is a slow, social drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is rakı traditionally served?
Chilled at 8-10°C, neat, diluted with water, or over ice — with water it turns the classic milky "lion's milk" white.
What does Tekirdag Gold taste like?
Fresh anise and fennel over a smooth grape spirit, with a velvety texture and long cooling finish from the oak rest.
What foods pair with rakı?
Meze — grilled fish and seafood, olives, cheese, lamb, and stuffed vine leaves.
Turkey's national spirit at its smoothest — order Tekirdag Rakisi Gold Series online from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.