The Polykala Distillery Showroom invites visitors to explore over 125 years of Greek liqueur-making tradition. Guests embark on a guided tour showcasing the distillery’s legacy, followed by a curated tasting experience highlighting the cultural significance of the region’s finest liqueurs. Savor the rich, piney aroma and silky mouthfeel of the renowned mastic liqueur, crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in the warm, hazelnut notes of the versatile liqueur, perfect for sipping or cocktails. Discover the velvety texture and balanced sweetness of the sour cherry liqueur, a decadent delight. This immersive experience allows visitors to appreciate the distillery’s exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to preserving Greek culinary heritage.
Key Points
- Established in 1897, the Polykala Distillery offers a 30-minute tour showcasing its 125-year legacy of crafting high-quality Greek liqueurs.
- The tasting experience includes a 10-minute introduction to the history and production of the distillery’s signature Mastiha, Hazelnut, and Cherry liqueurs.
- Visitors can sample the unique flavors and textures of these traditional Greek liqueurs, including the piney, floral Mastiha and the rich, decadent Hazelnut.
- The distillery is located in Athens, with the meeting point at Kotzia square, making it easily accessible via public transportation.
- Positive customer reviews highlight the warm welcome and informative staff, as well as the overall inclusive and wheelchair-friendly nature of the experience.
Distillery’s Rich History
With over 125 years of history, the Polykala Distillery has deep roots in the region. Founded in 1897, the distillery has been crafting high-quality liqueurs using traditional methods passed down through generations.
Throughout its long history, the distillery has remained committed to sourcing the finest local ingredients, including the prized mastic from the island of Chios.
Today, visitors can step back in time and learn about the distillery’s rich legacy during the 30-minute tour. From the carefully curated tasting menu to the welcoming staff, the Polykala Distillery experience offers a glimpse into Greece’s vibrant liqueur heritage.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Athens.
Mastic Liqueur Tasting
Although the distillery’s liqueur selection offers a diverse range of flavors, the Mastiha liqueur is considered a standout. Crafted from the resin of the Mastic tree, this liqueur boasts a rich aroma and a unique taste that is quintessentially Greek. The tasting experience allows visitors to savor the depth of this one-of-a-kind spirit.
Aroma | Flavor | Mouthfeel |
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Piney, floral | Earthy, herbal | Silky, lingering |
Guests can expect a 10-minute introduction to the Mastiha liqueur, learning about its history and production methods. This captivating experience sets the stage for a deeper appreciation of the distillery’s craft and the cultural significance of this exceptional spirit.
Hazelnut Liqueur Tasting
The hazelnut liqueur from Polykala Distillery captivates the senses with its warm, inviting aroma.
With a harmonious blend of rich hazelnut notes and subtle spice and oak aromas, this liqueur offers a truly decadent experience.
The liqueur’s versatility shines through, making it an excellent choice for:
- Sipping on its own as a digestif
- Incorporating into cocktails for a touch of nutty sophistication
- Pairing with desserts to complement the sweet flavors
- Gifting to loved ones who appreciate fine liqueurs
This meticulously crafted hazelnut liqueur is a testament to Polykala Distillery’s commitment to excellence, seamlessly blending tradition and modern expertise.
Cherry Liqueur Tasting
Polykala Distillery’s cherry liqueur captivates the palate with its rich, aromatic profile. Crafted from sour cherries, this decadent libation exudes pure spice aromas that tantalize the senses.
The liqueur’s velvety texture and balanced sweetness make it an ideal accompaniment to desserts or an indulgent after-dinner sip. Visitors to the distillery have the opportunity to sample this cherished offering, along with the hazelnut and mastiha liqueurs, during the guided tasting experience.
With its unique flavors and storied history, the cherry liqueur exemplifies Polykala’s commitment to preserving traditional Greek distilling techniques and delivering exceptional quality to its discerning guests.
Meeting Point and Location
To find the meeting point for the Polykala Distillery experience, visitors should head to Kotzia square, located opposite the Mayor’s Hall in Athens.
The distillery’s address is Kleisthenous 7, Athina 105 52, Greece, and the tour will return to the same meeting point after the experience.
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The meeting point is easily accessible, situated in a central location near public transportation.
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The experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors.
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However, it isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
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At the end of the tour, you will receive a 100ml bottle of their chosen liqueur to take home.
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Experience Highlights
A 10-minute introduction by guides Nina or Rena kicks off the Polykala Distillery experience. Visitors then embark on a 30-minute explanation of the distillery and liqueur production. The experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it inclusive for all. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Introduction | 10-minute welcome by guides |
Explanation | 30-minute tour of distillery and liqueur production |
Accessibility | Wheelchair and stroller friendly |
Restrictions | Not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with medical conditions |
Inclusions | Ticket includes 100ml bottle of liqueur of choice |
The Polykala Distillery experience allows visitors to enjoy 125 years of history and savor the rich flavors of their artisanal liqueurs.
Visitor Feedback
With 21 reviews and an impressive 5.0 overall rating, the Polykala Distillery Showroom has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from visitors.
The vast majority, 20 out of 21 reviews, awarded the experience a full 5-star rating. Visitors highlighted the warm welcome, informative staff, and the exceptional quality of the liqueurs.
However, there were a few minor issues reported, such as the distillery not opening on time. In these cases, the hosts provided refunds or rescheduling options, demonstrating their commitment to customer satisfaction.
- Positive comments praise the informative staff and high-quality liqueurs.
- 20 out of 21 reviews awarded the experience a 5-star rating.
- Occasional issues with timely opening were addressed with refunds or rescheduling.
- The Polykala Distillery Showroom receives glowing reviews from its visitors.
Accessibility and Restrictions
The Polykala Distillery Showroom is accessible to visitors with wheelchairs and strollers, making it a convenient option for a wide range of guests. However, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. This is due to the nature of the liqueur tasting experience, which may not be suitable for certain individuals.
Accessibility | Restrictions |
---|---|
Wheelchair accessible | Not recommended for pregnant travelers |
Stroller accessible | Not recommended for those with serious medical conditions |
Convenient for a wide range of guests | – |
– | – |
The showroom offers a unique opportunity to explore the 125-year-old history of the distillery and sample its renowned liqueurs, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Greek culinary heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase Additional Bottles of Liqueur?
Yes, visitors can purchase additional bottles of liqueur after the tasting experience. The distillery offers a variety of flavors, and visitors can choose to take home their favorite liqueur in a 100ml bottle.
Do You Offer Any Discounts or Packages for Group Bookings?
Yes, Polykala Distillery offers group discounts for bookings. They provide a special package that includes a 10% discount on the total price for groups of 6 or more visitors.
How Long Is the Entire Distillery Visit Experience?
The entire distillery visit experience lasts approximately 40 minutes. It includes a 10-minute introduction, a 30-minute explanation of the distillery and liqueur production, and time for a tasting of up to three liqueur flavors.
Are There Any Food Items Available for Purchase On-Site?
The Polykala Distillery visit doesn’t offer any food items for purchase on-site. The experience focuses on liqueur tastings and a tour of the distillery. Visitors can take home a 100ml bottle of their chosen liqueur.
Can I Request a Personalized Tasting Selection?
Yes, visitors can request a personalized tasting selection. The staff is accommodating and will work with you to curate a tasting experience that fits your preferences. Simply let them know your desired flavor profile during your visit.
Sum Up
The Polykala Distillery showroom offers a captivating glimpse into Greece’s rich liqueur-making heritage. Visitors can savor the distinctive flavors of mastiha, hazelnut, and cherry liqueurs, all crafted with local ingredients. This short yet immersive experience provides the perfect opportunity to explore the distillery’s storied past while exploring the vibrant city of Athens.
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