Cretan Raki

Cretan raki distilled by the Pitarokoilis family using traditional methods for a pure authentic taste. This clear aromatic spirit captures the character of Crete with its smooth flavor and gentle warmth. Tsikoudia also called raki in the eastern part of Crete is a fragrant grape based pomace brandy of Cretan origin that contains from forty percent to sixty five percent alcohol by volume. It is produced by distilling the pomace which includes the grape pieces seeds and stems that remain after winemaking. The pomace is sealed for about six weeks and then gently distilled creating a spirit known for its clean profile and natural aroma. The word raki also gives the name rakizio which describes the traditional distillation celebration among family friends and neighbors. The Pitarokilis family bottles Cretan raki in round glass bottles of two hundred milliliters and in special small glass bottles of fifty milliliters. Cretan raki can be enjoyed as an aperitif or after a meal offering a taste deeply connected to the island tradition and hospitality.