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Tsipouro is a traditional Greek spirit distilled from grape pomace—the skins, seeds, and stems that remain after winemaking. It is a crystal-clear, aromatic spirit that is deeply connected to the Greek way of life. In modern single-varietal expressions, such as Dekaraki, the careful selection of grapes and gentle distillation in copper stills highlight the unique character of each grape variety.
It means the spirit is produced from one single grape variety, allowing its distinctive aromas and flavors to shine through.
In Dekaraki, for example, each expression—Muscat of Tyrnavos, Roditis Alepou, or Malagousia—preserves the authentic identity of its grape variety, without blending or the addition of anise.
A single-varietal approach delivers pure aromas, a distinct identity, and remarkable consistency in flavor. It allows the spirit to express its terroir—the soil, altitude, and harvest conditions that shape its character.
Dekaraki Single-Varietal Tsipouro offers three unique expressions, each crafted from a different grape variety:
- Muscat of Tyrnavos: Intense and aromatic, with notes of fig, raisin, and rose.
- Roditis Alepou: Fresh and fruity, with hints of lemon, banana, and honey.
- Malagousia: Elegant and floral, with aromas of citrus, white flowers, and peach.
Each variety retains its distinctive personality thanks to carefully selected grapes and meticulous distillation.
Tsipouro is made by fermenting and distilling grape pomace in traditional copper stills, where temperature and distillation time determine the spirit’s purity, balance, and flavor.
For single-varietal spirits such as Dekaraki (Muscat, Roditis, and Malagousia), the production process is tailored to each grape variety in order to showcase its unique aromas and character.
Tsipouro with anise develops the distinctive aromas associated with ouzo, while tsipouro without anise allows the natural aromatic profile and flavor of the grapes to take center stage.
This makes it possible to fully appreciate each variety’s character, with its fruity, floral, or earthy notes becoming more pronounced. In single-varietal spirits such as Dekaraki, this approach highlights the unique identity of each grape variety (Muscat, Roditis, and Malagousia) without any interference.
Tsipouro is best enjoyed chilled, ideally between 8–12°C. At this temperature, its aromas become more expressive while maintaining a balanced body.
Dekaraki, for example, performs best when lightly chilled and served at around 10°C.
Tsipouro pairs beautifully with a wide variety of meze, from cheeses and seafood to spicy meat dishes, depending on the grape variety.
For Dekaraki Single-Varietal Tsipouro, each expression has its own ideal food pairings:
- Muscat of Tyrnavos: Grilled or fresh cheeses (such as feta and manouri), cheese pies, pan-fried meats, sausages, smoked pork (apaki), spicy meat dishes, rich sauces, and hearty stews.
- Roditis Alepou: Fried seafood, marinated fish, light salads, savory spreads, and grilled dishes.
- Malagousia: Grilled seafood and fish, smoked or cured fish, lemon-based dishes, and rich or tangy recipes.
Each variety offers a different tasting experience, highlighting the aromas and personality of the grape.
Most tsipouro spirits range between 38–42% ABV.
Dekaraki Single-Varietal Tsipouro is bottled at 40% ABV, achieving the ideal balance between intensity and elegance while preserving the delicate aromatic profile of each variety.
The flavor of tsipouro is shaped by several factors:
- Grape variety: Each variety offers its own distinctive aromas and flavor profile.
- Terroir: Soil, altitude, and climate influence the intensity and complexity of the aromas.
- Harvest: The ripeness of the grapes and the timing of the harvest affect sweetness and acidity.
- Distillation: The distillation technique and the type of still determine the spirit’s purity and balance.
Dekaraki’s single-varietal expressions—Muscat of Tyrnavos, Roditis Alepou, and Malagousia—clearly demonstrate how grape variety and terroir create unique personalities without the need for blending.
Yes. Tsipouro can be matured in oak barrels, where it develops woody notes and a smoother, rounder character.
Dekaraki’s single-varietal expressions, however, are intended to be enjoyed in their clear, unaged form, allowing the natural aromas of each grape variety to shine through.
A quality tsipouro stands out through its crystal-clear appearance, clean and expressive aromas, and smooth, balanced palate.
Single-varietal tsipouro, such as Dekaraki, makes this difference noticeable from the very first sip.
Not necessarily.
Tsipouro is best stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. However, it is ideally served chilled, at around 10°C.
For example, Dekaraki Single-Varietal Tsipouro offers its best tasting experience when lightly chilled before serving, allowing the aromas and elegance of each grape variety to be fully expressed.