Metaxa Kosher Ouzo
Metaxa Kosher Ouzo is Greece's classic anise spirit from an unexpected source — the 80-proof (40% ABV) ouzo distilled by the House of Metaxa in Athens, presented in a 750mL bottle. Built on Tsipoura (pressed grapes) and a Mediterranean botanical bill led by aniseed, fennel, coriander, and mastiha from the island of Chios, it is also certified kosher, making it one of the few kosher-certified ouzos on the American market. Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- Proof / ABV: 80 proof (40% ABV) — 750mL bottle
- Base: Tsipoura (pressed grapes) with Mediterranean botanicals
- Botanicals: aniseed, fennel, coriander, Chios mastiha
- Origin: distilled by the House of Metaxa, Athens, Greece
- Certification: kosher-certified; gluten-free and vegan per listings
Metaxa's Take on Greece's National Spirit
Metaxa built its name on Greek brandy, but the house's ouzo is a fully committed expression of the national spirit: anise-forward, brightly aromatic, and made the traditional way from grape distillate rather than neutral grain spirit. The mastiha — the resinous tear of the mastic tree grown only on Chios — gives it a distinctive piney, sea-breeze lift that sets it apart from simpler anise liqueurs. Serve it the Greek way, over ice with a splash of cold water, and watch it louche into a milky opal. Browse more Greek spirits or explore everything from Metaxa at Del Mesa.
Tasting Notes
Sweet anise and licorice open with floral top notes; the palate layers aniseed, licorice, and iris flower over a saline, sea-breeze minerality, finishing clean, crisp, and long with lingering mastic.
How to Enjoy
Over ice with cold water (2:1 water to ouzo is traditional), or neat alongside meze — grilled octopus, feta, and olives are the classic pairings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Metaxa Ouzo kosher?
Yes — it is listed as kosher-certified by multiple retailers, though the certifying agency is not published on the label copy we verified.
What is ouzo made from?
Traditional ouzo is distilled from grape pomace (tsipoura) flavored with anise and botanicals; Metaxa's version adds fennel, coriander, and Chios mastiha.
Why does ouzo turn cloudy with water?
The anise oils are soluble in alcohol but not water — adding water releases them as a milky emulsion called louching. It's the sign of a proper anise spirit.
A kosher-certified Greek classic from a legendary house — order Metaxa Kosher Ouzo from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.