Ouzo 12 (75cl, 40%)

Ouzo 12 is a double-distilled Greek anise spirit made from grape alcohol and a blend of botanicals: anise, cardamom, cinnamon, coriander and nutmeg. It is bottled at 40% in a 75cl bottle. The name comes from Barrel No. 12 at the Kaloyannis distillery, where the family began distilling in 1880. Customers asked for the spirit from that cask, and it became the house recipe. Like other ouzo, it is clear in the glass and turns milky white when water or ice is added, which suits it to serving as an aperitif. The nose is sweet anise and liquorice with citrus zest and subtle spice. The palate is round and silky, with liquorice, herbal fennel and a gentle peppery bite. The finish is soft and dry, with lingering anise.