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Rakomelo | Local Honey Liqueur From Crete, Greece | TasteAtlas

Rakomelo

(Ρακόμελο)

Rakomelo is a Cretan drink that combines honey and tsikoudia, a clear Cretan spirit that is sometimes referred to as raki, though it is not anise-flavored like the namesake Turkish spirit. The drink is often flavored with herbs and spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, or cloves.


It is frequently prepared at home by combining warm spirit and honey, but commercially produced versions are also available. Rakomelo is sometimes served warm, usually as a soothing winter drink or a health remedy, while the well-chilled variety is mainly enjoyed neat or with ice, preferably as an aperitif or a digestif.


It is believed that it dates back to the 12th century and its origin is mainly associated with Crete, though some sources list the Cyclades as its original location, primarily the island of Amorgos.