Raki is a real Cretan product closely related to the Greek way of life, hospitality and entertainment of the Greeks!

Is the drink served in Crete on almost every occasion. Cretan raki is consumed as a sign of friendship and politeness, as a means of social communication. It is served almost naturally after every meal and there is often the opportunity to drink raki!

The process of making Cretan Raki

The process for Cretans is the same as it was centuries ago…

Raki is made in the autumn after the grape harvest, when the vines have been pruned. Raki is obtained from the grape press residue during winemaking, the core, by distillation. It contains an average of 30 to 40 percent alcohol by volume…

Distillation follows an ancient method that has been used for centuries and is now part of the Cretan tradition. The marc, which has been fermented in barrels for more than a month, boils in a special kettle, the Kazani.

The kettle or kazani consists of 4 parts:

• the pot with the marc.

• The lid is big enough to seal as much steam as possible.

• The pipe is long enough to leave space between the fire that heats the pomace and the cold water (see next step). The pipe (Loulas in Greek) directs the steam to the barrel.

•The barrel (or rouba) with cold water inside so that the steam flowing through the tube becomes raki drops.

To our health (yamas)

A typical Greek phrase, known worldwide- Yamas! It is heard in every celebration, feast, in every form of hospitality

Give us good wine and raki and we know what to do with them!

Our suggestion for excellent quality of raki and wine, is to visit our online store www.cretaneshop.gr and then YAMAS!