Athens: Liqueur Tasting

When it comes to authentic Greek experiences, few things capture the spirit of Greece quite like sampling traditional liqueurs. The Athens Liqueur Tasting at Brettos Plaka offers a delightful peek into over a century of craft distilling. This experience invites you to explore Greece’s rich flavors—sweet, herbal, fruity, and exotic—all in a cozy, historic setting.

What we love about this tour is its authenticity and intimate atmosphere. Being hosted at the oldest distillery in Athens, established in 1909, adds a genuine touch that newer venues simply can’t match. Plus, the chance to pick five of over 30 homemade flavors makes each tasting uniquely personalized.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the short duration—just 30 minutes—so if you’re hoping for a long, in-depth tasting, this might feel a bit quick. But for those seeking a quick, flavorful introduction to Greek spirits, it hits the mark perfectly.

This experience suits travelers interested in local drinks, Greek culture, and small-group settings. Whether you’re a foodie, a curious traveler, or simply love spirits, you’ll likely find this a memorable, flavorful highlight of your Athens trip.

Key Points

• Historic Venue: The distillery has been making liqueurs since 1909, adding a layer of tradition.
• Personalized Tasting: You select 5 flavors from over 30 available, tailoring the experience.
• Authentic Flavors: Expect classics like Masticha, Honey & Cinnamon, and tropical options like Banana and Pineapple.
• Short but Sweet: The 30-minute tour is quick but packed with flavor and history.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, encouraging a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve with no upfront payment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Experience Unique?

This isn’t your typical touristy tasting; it’s rooted in tradition. Brettos Plaka, the host, has been crafting liqueurs based on old recipes since 1909. Walking into the distillery feels like stepping back in time—warm, inviting, and filled with the scent of herbs and spirits aging in bottles. This historic setting makes the tasting more than just about the taste; it’s about connecting with Greek craftsmanship.

The variety of flavors—over 30—means you’re likely to find favorites and surprises alike. From the traditional Masticha, resin extracted from the mastic tree (a flavor distinctly Greek, with a pine-like aroma and slightly herbal note), to the internationally popular Batida de Coco, flavors span the spectrum. There’s also a Honey & Cinnamon blend, which is very popular among younger visitors, and fruitier options like Cherry, Banana, Apple, Pineapple, and Cranberry.

This diverse lineup means you can customize your tasting, making each visit a personal journey through Greece’s flavor landscape. The fact that all the liqueurs are homemade based on old recipes lends an authenticity that mass-produced spirits simply can’t match.

The Tasting Process and Atmosphere

Once you’re seated, you’ll be offered the chance to choose five flavors. The small group size—a maximum of 10 people—creates a relaxed, friendly environment where you can ask questions and learn about each liqueur’s story and ingredients. An English-speaking instructor guides the tasting, explaining each flavor’s background and what makes it unique.

The tasting is informal, yet educational. You’re encouraged to sip slowly, savor the flavors, and perhaps discover a new favorite. Many travelers enjoy the experience not just for the spirits but also for the stories behind each bottle, passed down through generations.

Value and Pricing

For the price of the tour, you receive five liqueurs to taste, which is quite generous considering many tasting experiences charge similar prices for fewer samples. Since each liqueur is homemade and based on traditional recipes, you’re paying for quality and authenticity.

Given the limited duration, some might wonder if it’s enough, but we see this as a valuable snapshot—a chance to taste a variety of Greek spirits without a lengthy commitment. If you’re with a group, it’s a fun, social way to spend half an hour and gain insight into Greek drinking culture.

Practical Details and Booking

The tour lasts about 30 minutes, with flexible starting times depending on availability. You’ll need to check the schedule, but the experience is designed to be short and sweet, perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day.

Booking is flexible: you can reserve now and pay later, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. This ease of planning is especially helpful if your plans are still evolving.

The group is small—limited to 10 participants—which enhances the intimate feel and allows your guide to give personalized attention.

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Accessibility and Location

The venue, Brettos Plaka, is centrally located in the vibrant Plaka neighborhood, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing or a stroll through historic Athens. The setting is accessible and welcoming, with staff eager to share their knowledge.

This tasting is perfect for adventure-seekers who want to sample authentic Greek spirits with a local twist. It’s also suited for those interested in local traditions or looking for a memorable, small-group experience. If you’re short on time but want a taste of Greek craftsmanship, this short, engaging activity hits the spot.

However, if you are after a longer, more comprehensive tasting or a full-barrel tour, you might find this experience a bit brief. Still, for a quick, memorable introduction to Greece’s liqueur heritage, it’s hard to beat.

In terms of value, this tour offers a glimpse into Greece’s rich spirit-making tradition at an accessible price. The ability to choose your flavors adds a personal touch, making each visit unique. The historic setting at Brettos, combined with the friendly, small-group atmosphere, ensures an engaging and authentic experience.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love local drinks, enjoy small-group activities, and want a taste of Greece that’s both fun and educational. It’s ideal for those who appreciate craftsmanship and want to take home a new favorite liqueur or two.

While it’s short, the quality of the flavors and the story behind each bottle make it a worthwhile addition to your Athens itinerary. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or simply curious about Greek culture, this is a charming way to connect with the country’s flavor traditions.

How long does the tour last?
The tasting lasts around 30 minutes, making it a quick but flavorful experience.

Can I choose which liqueurs I taste?
Yes, you pick five from over 30 available flavors, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferences.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the small group is limited to 10 participants, which ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What languages are available?
The instructor guides the tasting in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your plans.

Where is the experience held?
At Brettos Plaka, centrally located in Athens’ historic Plaka neighborhood.

Is this experience suitable for all ages?
While it’s primarily aimed at adults interested in spirits, the focus on traditional, non-alcoholic information makes it suitable for most mature travelers.

In sum, the Athens Liqueur Tasting at Brettos Plaka offers a charming, authentic taste of Greece’s spirit-making heritage. It’s a perfect quick stop for curious travelers wanting to learn about and sample local flavors in a historic setting. Whether you’re a dedicated connoisseur or a casual explorer, this small-group experience can add a memorable flavor to your Athens adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: