Have you ever had Metaxa? If you haven’t then please add it to your bucket list. If you have, then you know how amazing this Greek spirit is. Metaxa is perfect for sipping, and it has a unique taste that many people love.
But the question is, how do you drink Metaxa? Well, first of all, you need to choose the right glass. A tumbler or a snifter is perfect for Metaxa. Next, pour some Metaxa into the glass, making sure not to overdo it. You want just enough to savor the taste. Then, swirl the glass a bit, and take a deep breath to appreciate the aroma. Sip the drink slowly and let the flavors unfold in your mouth. Adding some ice or water is optional, but some people prefer it that way. Whatever you do, make sure to enjoy it responsibly and savor every sip.
Metaxa ingredients
Metaxa is a Greek spirit that has been around for over 130 years, and its unique ingredients are what make it stand out among other types of liquor. Metaxa is a blend of brandy and wine, infused with botanicals like anise, rose petals, and Mediterranean herbs. The base spirit is a blend of grape distillates from the Greek islands of Samos and Lemnos, which are then aged in oak barrels. The blend is then mixed with aged muscat wines from Samos, which gives Metaxa its distinct flavor and aroma.
- Blend of brandy and wine
- Botanicals like anise, rose petals, and Mediterranean herbs
- Base spirit is a blend of grape distillates from the Greek islands of Samos and Lemnos
- Aged in oak barrels
- Mixed with aged muscat wines from Samos
Metaxa History and Origin
If you are a true connoisseur of spirits, then the name Metaxa must certainly ring a bell. This Greek brandy is known for its smooth taste and aromatic flavor, and it has long been a favorite of those who appreciate a good cognac or brandy. But what makes Metaxa so special, and how did it come to be so beloved by spirit lovers around the globe? Let’s dive into the history and origin of this iconic brandy.
- Metaxa was first created by a Greek man named Spyros Metaxas in 1888. As a businessman and entrepreneur, he wanted to create a brandy that was uniquely Greek and that would showcase the country’s rich heritage.
- Metaxas blended together a variety of Greek grape spirits, as well as a secret blend of herbs and other botanicals, to create a brandy that was unlike any other. He also aged the brandy in oak casks, which gave it a distinct flavor and color.
- The first batches of Metaxa were sold in Greece and quickly gained a following among locals who appreciated the brandy’s smooth taste and unique character. Eventually, the brandy made its way to other countries throughout Europe, and then to the United States and beyond.
Today, Metaxa is still made according to the original recipe created by Spyros Metaxas over 130 years ago. While there have been some small tweaks and adjustments made over the years, the essential components of the brandy remain the same.
So how should you drink Metaxa to truly appreciate its flavor and character? While some people prefer to drink it neat or on the rocks, the classic way to enjoy Metaxa is as a long drink. Simply pour a shot of Metaxa into a glass filled with ice, and then top it off with your choice of mixer (usually soda water or lemonade). This will give you a refreshing spritzer-style drink that showcases the brandy’s unique flavor and aroma.
| Metaxa | Brandy | Cognac |
|---|---|---|
| Created in Greece in 1888 | Generally made from grapes, but can also be made from other fruits (such as apples or plums) | Must be made in the Cognac region of France and adhere to strict production guidelines |
| Blended with a variety of Greek grape spirits and herbs | Aged in oak barrels for several years to develop a rich flavor and color | Aged in French oak barrels for at least two years |
| Smooth and aromatic flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, and citrus | Can have a wide range of flavors depending on the grapes used and aging process | Often has a floral and fruity flavor with notes of oak and spice |
Whether you are a seasoned brandy enthusiast or a newcomer to the spirit, Metaxa is definitely worth trying. Its unique flavor and character make it a standout in the world of spirits, and its rich history and heritage only add to its appeal.
Types of Metaxa
Metaxa is a Greek alcoholic drink which is a blend of wine distillates, Mediterranean herbs, and Muscat wines. It is a popular alcoholic drink in Greece and is gaining in popularity worldwide. There are different types of Metaxa which are classified based on their maturation period and the number of barrels it is matured in. The different types of Metaxa are:
- Metaxa 3 Star: The Metaxa 3 Star is the youngest of all Metaxas. It is matured for three years in oak barrels and has a light color and a smooth taste. It is perfect for mixing with soft drinks and is usually served as a long drink or in a cocktail.
- Metaxa 5 Star: The Metaxa 5 Star is matured for five years in oak barrels. It has a darker color and a more intense taste than the 3 Star. It is perfect for sipping straight or on the rocks.
- Metaxa 7 Star: The Metaxa 7 Star is matured for seven years in oak barrels. It has a deep amber color and a complex taste that is a mix of sweet and bitter. It is perfect for sipping straight or with a splash of water to open up the flavors.
- Metaxa 12 Star: The Metaxa 12 Star is the oldest and most mature of all Metaxas. It is matured for 12 years in oak barrels and has a rich amber color and a complex taste that is a mix of sweet and bitter with hints of oak. It is perfect for sipping straight after a meal.
Metaxa Maturation Stages
Metaxa is matured in different stages to create its unique taste and aroma.
The different maturation stages are:
- The basis: These are the wine distillates which form the base of the Metaxa
- The blend: The wine distillates are blended with Muscat wines and Mediterranean herbs and spices such as aniseed, fennel, and rose petals to create the distinctive taste of Metaxa
- The ageing: The blend is then aged in oak barrels, which gives it its smooth and mellow taste
- The finishing: The final touch is the addition of natural Muscat wine, which gives Metaxa its unique aroma and flavor
Aging Process and Flavors
Metaxa is aged in oak barrels which gives it its smooth and mellow taste. The oak barrels also impart some flavors to the Metaxa such as vanilla, caramel, and oak. The length of time it is aged determines the intensity of the flavors. The 12 Star Metaxa has the most intense flavors while the 3 Star Metaxa has the mildest flavors. The addition of natural Muscat wine gives the Metaxa its unique aroma and flavor.
| Type of Metaxa | Maturation Period | Color | Taste |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metaxa 3 Star | 3 years | Light | Smooth |
| Metaxa 5 Star | 5 years | Darker | Intense |
| Metaxa 7 Star | 7 years | Deep amber | Complex mix of sweet and bitter |
| Metaxa 12 Star | 12 years | Rich amber | Complex mix of sweet and bitter with hints of oak |
The table above summarizes the different types of Metaxa, their maturation periods, colors, and tastes.
Tips for Serving Metaxa
If you’re a fan of brandy, Metaxa is a must-try. This Greek spirit is made from wine, herbs, and aged grape brandy, giving it a unique and complex flavor. But how should you serve it to best enjoy its taste and aroma? Here are some tips:
- Serve it chilled: Metaxa is best served chilled or on the rocks. You can chill it in the fridge or by adding ice cubes to your glass. Don’t add too much ice, though, as it can dilute the flavor.
- Use a tulip glass: A tulip glass is the ideal choice for serving Metaxa, as its shape allows the aroma to be released and concentrated at the top of the glass.
- Enjoy it neat: Metaxa is delicious on its own, so try sipping it neat before adding any mixers. This will allow you to fully appreciate its complex flavor.
If you do want to mix it up, Metaxa works well in cocktails like the Metaxa Sour or the Metaxa Manhattan. Here are some recipes to get you started:
| Cocktail | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Metaxa Sour | 2 oz Metaxa 1 oz lemon juice 1/2 oz simple syrup 1 egg white |
Shake all ingredients with ice. Strain into a glass and garnish with a lemon twist. |
| Metaxa Manhattan | 2 oz Metaxa 1 oz sweet vermouth 2 dashes orange bitters |
Stir all ingredients with ice. Strain into a glass and garnish with a cherry and an orange twist. |
Experiment with different serving styles and recipes to find the one that works best for your palate. With its unique flavor profile and versatility, Metaxa is sure to become a favorite in your home bar.
Metaxa Cocktails
Metaxa is a brandy made from a unique blend of wine and Mediterranean botanicals, aged in oak barrels. While it’s delicious on its own, it also makes a great base for cocktails. Here are five Metaxa cocktail recipes to try:
- The Metaxa Sour: Shake 2 ounces of Metaxa, 3/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup with ice. Strain into a glass filled with ice and garnish with a lemon twist.
- The Metaxa Espresso Martini: Shake 2 ounces of Metaxa, 1/4 ounce of Kahlua, 1/2 ounce of simple syrup, and 1 shot of espresso with ice. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with coffee beans.
- The Metaxa Old Fashioned: Muddle 1 sugar cube and a splash of water in a glass. Add ice, 2 ounces of Metaxa, and a few dashes of bitters. Stir and garnish with an orange twist.
- The Metaxa Tonic: Pour 2 ounces of Metaxa and tonic water over ice in a highball glass. Squeeze in a lime wedge and stir. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary or thyme.
- The Metaxa Paloma: Rim a glass with salt and fill with ice. Pour in 2 ounces of Metaxa, 1/2 ounce of grapefruit juice, 1/2 ounce of lime juice, and top with grapefruit soda. Garnish with a lime wedge.
These cocktails showcase the versatility of Metaxa and are perfect for sipping on a warm day or sharing with friends at a party.
Differences between Metaxa and other brandies
When it comes to brandies, Metaxa stands out from the crowd. Here are a few reasons why:
- Unique blend – Metaxa is a blend of brandy and Mediterranean herbs, which gives it a distinct flavor profile compared to other brandies.
- Aged in oak barrels – Metaxa is aged in oak barrels for up to 7 years, which gives it a smooth and mellow taste. Other brandies may not be aged for as long or in oak barrels.
- Lower alcohol content – Metaxa typically has a lower alcohol content compared to other brandies, which makes it more approachable for those who prefer a lighter drink.
Not only does Metaxa differ in taste and production, but it also has a unique serving ritual. Traditionally, Metaxa is served over ice with a splash of water and a twist of lemon. This simple recipe allows you to enjoy the full flavor of the brandy without it being too overpowering.
| Brandy | Country of origin | Taste profile |
|---|---|---|
| Metaxa | Greece | Floral, herbal, and mellow |
| Cognac | France | Elegant, smooth, and rich |
| Armagnac | France | Fruity, spicy, and rustic |
Despite the differences, brandy lovers can appreciate each unique variation and enjoy the taste, aroma, and history of each one. Whether you prefer Metaxa or another type of brandy, take the time to savor the drink and appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into each bottle.
Pairing Metaxa with Food
Metaxa, a Greek brandy that is aged in oak barrels, possesses a unique taste that can complement various types of food. Here are some tips on how to enjoy Metaxa with your meals.
1. Pair it with cheese: The smoothness of Metaxa is an excellent match for the creamy texture of cheese. Try it with feta, goat cheese or a sharp cheddar for a luxurious experience.
2. Go Mediterranean: Metaxa is best enjoyed with Mediterranean cuisine like olives, hummus, and tapenade. These flavors create a harmonious balance with the rich taste of Metaxa.
3. Play with spiciness: Metaxa can tone down the heat of spicy food. It’s an excellent drink to pair with dishes that have a spicy kick like curries or chili con carne.
- 4. Explore seafood: Seafood pairs well with Metaxa, especially grilled octopus and shrimp. The briny flavor of seafood and the smokiness of the grill go well with the brandy’s rich flavor.
- 5. Try it with chocolate: Sweet and creamy chocolate can balance the robustness of Metaxa. It can be a dessert on its own or paired with a chocolate tart or cake.
- 6. Beef it up: The smokiness of grilled or roasted meat like beef or lamb is an excellent complement to Metaxa. It’s a perfect choice for a hearty dinner party.
7. The right temperature: Metaxa should be served chilled, but not overly so. The best temperature to serve Metaxa is around 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit. If it’s too cold, the flavors can be masked, and if it’s too warm, the alcohol can become too strong.
| Food | Metaxa |
|---|---|
| Feta Cheese | 3 stars |
| Grilled Octopus | 4 stars |
| Hummus | 3 stars |
| Spicy Curry | 4 stars |
| Chocolate Cake | 3 stars |
| Roast Lamb | 5 stars |
Metaxa is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed on its own or with food. When pairing Metaxa with food, remember to choose dishes with contrasting flavors that can complement the brandy’s rich taste. Experiment with different types of cuisine, and you’ll find new and exciting ways to enjoy Metaxa.
FAQs: How Do You Drink Metaxa?
1. Is Metaxa meant to be consumed neat or mixed?
Metaxa is usually enjoyed straight or on the rocks, but it can also be mixed with soda or tonic water for a lighter touch.
2. What type of glass should I use for Metaxa?
A tumbler or an old-fashioned glass is best for Metaxa, as the wide opening allows you to savor the aroma and flavor of the spirit.
3. Should Metaxa be chilled before drinking?
Metaxa can be enjoyed chilled, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature. It all comes down to personal preference.
4. What foods pair well with Metaxa?
Metaxa goes well with rich, hearty dishes like roasted meats, stews, and grilled vegetables. It can also be enjoyed with desserts like chocolate mousse or fruit tarts.
5. Can Metaxa be used as a cocktail ingredient?
Yes, Metaxa can be used in cocktails to add depth and complexity. Its sweet, herbal notes make it a great addition to drinks like the Metaxa Sour or the Metaxa Manhattan.
6. Does Metaxa have a shelf life?
Metaxa can be stored for a long time, preferably in a cool, dark place. Even after opening, it can stay fresh for months or even years. However, exposure to light and heat can shorten its lifespan.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you know how to enjoy Metaxa, it’s time to savor this unique spirit and all its flavors and aromas. Take your time, experiment with different pairings, and enjoy the drink responsibly. Thank you for reading and be sure to check back for more tips and insights on your favorite spirits!