Athens: Liqueur Tasting

This review covers a visit to Athens’ oldest distillery, Brettos Plaka, where you can sample more than 30 homemade liqueurs in a quick, friendly tasting session. With a history dating back to 1909, this spot offers a genuine taste of Greece’s spirited tradition—literally. The experience promises a fun, relaxed way to explore Greek flavors without needing a full bar crawl or food tour, making it ideal for travelers looking to add a local touch to their trip.

What we really love about this experience is how accessible and intimate it is. The small group setting (limited to just 10 participants) means you’ll get plenty of personalized attention. Plus, with over 30 liqueurs to choose from, the tasting is highly customizable—perfect if you’re a curious foodie or a spirits enthusiast. That said, since it lasts only about 30 minutes, it’s more of a quick highlight rather than an in-depth exploration. So, if you’re after a deeper dive into Greek spirits or a longer session, this might feel a little brief.

This tour works best for those wanting a taste of local tradition in a fun, informal environment—ideal for couples, solo travelers, or small groups eager to discover authentic Greek spirits in a historic setting.

Key Points

• Historic Venue: Brettos Plaka is Athens’ oldest distillery, established in 1909.
• Customizable Tasting: Choose 5 from over 30 homemade liqueurs based on traditional recipes.
• Wide Range of Flavors: From Masticha to Batida de Coco, plus Honey & Cinnamon, Cherry, Banana, and more.
• Authentic Experience: Small group setting with personalized attention, led by an English-speaking guide.
• Flexible & Convenient: Book now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Time-Efficient: Perfect for a quick, flavorful stop during your Athens sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Flavorful Journey Through Greek Spirit Traditions

When you think of Greece, images of ancient ruins and delicious cuisine probably come to mind. But what about the country’s liquid heritage? That’s exactly what this Liqueur Tasting at Brettos Plaka offers—a chance to explore Greece’s spirited side in a friendly, authentic environment. Located in central Athens, this historic distillery has been crafting over 40 liqueur flavors since 1909, with recipes passed down through generations. Today, it stands as a lively spot where visitors can sample and learn about Greek liqueurs, which are rooted in tradition but also infused with fun.

The Setting: Brettos Plaka

Walking into Brettos feels like stepping back in time. The hotel’s vintage charm, with colorful bottles lining the shelves and a warm, inviting atmosphere, immediately makes you feel part of something special. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, where an English-speaking instructor guides you through the tasting process. Reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable staff who often share little stories about the history of each spirit, adding a layer of storytelling to the tasting.

What’s Included: The Flavors and the Experience

You’ll get to choose five liqueurs from a selection of over 30, all handcrafted using original recipes. This customization is a highlight, as it allows you to tailor the tasting to your preferences—whether you favor traditional flavors or something more exotic. Popular choices include the classic Masticha, made from resin extracted from the mastic tree, which is highly revered in Greece, or the sweeter Batida de Coco for fans of tropical flavors.

Other favorites tend to be Honey & Cinnamon, a traditional spirit loved by younger crowds, and fruitier options like Cherry, Banana, Apple, Pineapple, and Cranberry. Many visitors appreciate how each liqueur tells a story, often linked to local ingredients or regional customs. The tasting lasts about 30 minutes, making it an efficient but memorable stop during your day in Athens.

What to Expect: The Tasting Itself

Expect a relaxed, informal environment where the guide explains the history of each flavor and the process behind its creation. The focus is on authenticity and tradition, so no mass-produced spirits here—everything is homemade based on old recipes. Guests often comment on the smoothness and complexity of the flavors, which reflect Greece’s diverse landscape and cultural influences.

One reviewer notes, “The guide was very friendly and knowledgeable, sharing stories about each liqueur’s origin, which made the tasting even more enjoyable.” Another mentions how much they appreciated the variety of flavors available and the chance to sample multiple spirits in a short time, making it an excellent value for a unique cultural experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details: Booking, Cost, and Duration

The tour is designed for flexibility. You can reserve now and pay later, with a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. The cost includes five liqueurs, selected by you, making it a straightforward, no-surprise experience. With a duration of just 30 minutes, it fits well into a busy sightseeing schedule, especially if you’re looking for a quick, immersive taste of Greek tradition.

The activity is conducted in English, and groups are kept small to ensure an intimate experience. It’s suitable for all ages above legal drinking age, and there are no additional costs beyond the initial booking.

Why This Experience Offers Real Value

While it’s a short session, the Athens Liqueur Tasting offers a genuine connection to Greece’s local craftsmanship. Sampling spirits that have been produced using recipes from over a century ago provides an authentic flavor of Greek culture—both figuratively and literally. The ability to select your five flavors from such a broad palette means each tasting is personalized, which adds to its appeal.

The setting at Brettos enhances the experience with its historic ambiance and friendly atmosphere. If you’re curious about Greek spirits beyond ouzo or wine, this is a wonderful way to expand your palate in a fun, relaxed environment. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the variety of flavors, which allows for a tailored experience that feels both educational and enjoyable.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tasting is perfect for travelers who want a quick, authentic, and memorable introduction to Greek spirits. It suits foodies, spirit enthusiasts, or anyone curious about local traditions. Since it’s not a lengthy experience, it’s an ideal add-on between sightseeing or as a cozy break in the afternoon. It’s also well-suited for couples or small groups who want an intimate, culturally rich activity without the commitment of a longer tour.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, you’ll be led by an English-speaking instructor who explains the history of each liqueur and guides you through the tasting.

Can I choose my flavors?
Absolutely. You get to select five liqueurs from over 30 options, allowing you to customize your experience based on your preferences.

How long does the tasting last?
The entire experience lasts about 30 minutes, making it a quick but memorable activity.

What is included in the price?
The price covers five homemade liqueurs of your choice, based on traditional recipes, served in a friendly, historic setting.

Are there any cancellation policies?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this experience suitable for all ages?
While it’s primarily a tasting of spirits, it’s suitable for anyone of legal drinking age. The focus is on cultural appreciation rather than alcohol consumption alone.

Where does this take place?
At Brettos Plaka, the oldest distillery in Athens, located in the central historic district.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a quick, authentic glimpse into Greece’s traditional liqueurs, Brettos Plaka’s Liqueur Tasting offers a delightful and educational experience. Its small-group format, historic setting, and extensive flavor options make it a standout activity for those looking to add a flavorful, cultural touch to their Athens visit. While the session is brief, the personalized approach and the chance to sample a variety of spirits ensure it’s a memorable, value-packed experience. Perfect for curious travelers, social groups, or anyone eager to understand a lesser-known side of Greek craftsmanship.

In all, this tasting isn’t just about drinking; it’s about connecting with Greece’s traditions, tastes, and stories—one sip at a time.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby