When you think of Greece, images of ancient ruins, sun-soaked beaches, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine likely come to mind. But there’s another side to Greece that’s gaining popularity among locals and travelers alike—its burgeoning craft beer scene. While Greece is traditionally known for its wine and ouzo, the country is also home to a variety of unique and flavorful beers that are worth exploring. Whether you’re relaxing on a Greek island or enjoying a meal at a local taverna, here are some native Greek beers to try on your vacation.
Fix Hellas
Fix Hellas is one of Greece’s oldest and most iconic beers, with a history dating back to 1864. It was the first major beer brand in Greece and quickly became a favorite among Greeks. The brewery was established by Johann Karl Fix, a Bavarian who moved to Greece and brought his beer-making expertise with him. Today, Fix Hellas remains a symbol of Greek beer culture and is widely available throughout the country.
Tasting Notes:
- Type: Lager
- Flavor: Light, crisp, and refreshing with a slightly malty sweetness and mild bitterness.
- Perfect Pairing: Enjoy Fix Hellas with classic Greek dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, or grilled seafood.
Mythos
Mythos is another popular Greek beer that has become synonymous with Greek summer. Launched in 1997, Mythos quickly became a favorite among both locals and tourists for its easy-drinking and refreshing qualities. The brand’s name, which means “myth” in Greek, reflects the rich history and legends that are part of Greek culture.
Tasting Notes:
- Type: Lager
- Flavor: Mildly hoppy with a clean, crisp finish. It’s a light beer that’s perfect for hot summer days.
- Perfect Pairing: Mythos pairs well with a Greek salad, fried calamari, or a light mezze platter.
Alpha
Alpha is a classic Greek lager that has been around since 1961. It’s known for its smooth taste and quality ingredients, making it a staple in many Greek households and tavernas. Alpha prides itself on its use of 100% Greek barley, which gives the beer its distinct flavor and connection to the land.
Tasting Notes:
- Type: Lager
- Flavor: Smooth and balanced with a malty sweetness and a slight hoppy bitterness.
- Perfect Pairing: Enjoy Alpha with grilled meats, gyros, or a hearty plate of pastitsio.
Nisos
Nisos is a craft beer brewed on the island of Tinos in the Cyclades. Founded in 2012, Nisos has quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality beers that reflect the character of the Greek islands. The brewery uses locally sourced ingredients and traditional brewing methods to create beers that are full of flavor and personality.
Tasting Notes:
- Type: Pilsner
- Flavor: Crisp and refreshing with a floral aroma and a slightly bitter finish. Nisos has a distinctive taste that’s influenced by the local ingredients and the island’s climate.
- Perfect Pairing: Pair Nisos with fresh seafood, grilled octopus, or a slice of Greek cheese like graviera.
Septem
Septem is one of Greece’s most innovative craft breweries, located on the island of Evia. The brewery was founded in 2009 and takes its name from the Latin word for “seven,” which represents the seven days of the week, each with a unique beer. Septem is known for its focus on quality, creativity, and the use of fresh ingredients, which results in a range of flavorful and aromatic beers.
Tasting Notes:
- Type: Various (Pilsner, IPA, Pale Ale, etc.)
- Flavor: Septem produces a variety of beers, each with its own unique flavor profile. From hoppy IPAs to smooth pale ales, there’s something for every beer lover.
- Perfect Pairing: Depending on the beer, pair Septem with anything from spicy dishes to rich desserts.
Volkan
Volkan beer is brewed on the volcanic island of Santorini and reflects the unique terroir of the island. The brewery uses local ingredients, including volcanic rock-filtered water and Santorini honey, to create beers that are truly unique to the region. Volkan’s beers are a celebration of the island’s natural beauty and volcanic origins.
Tasting Notes:
- Type: Blonde Ale, White Ale
- Flavor: Volkan Blonde Ale is light and crisp with a hint of citrus, while Volkan White Ale is slightly fruity with a refreshing finish.
- Perfect Pairing: Enjoy Volkan beers with fresh Santorini tomatoes, fava beans, or a plate of local olives.
Vergina
Vergina is a well-established Greek beer brand, brewed by the Macedonian Thrace Brewery in northern Greece. Launched in 1998, Vergina has grown to become one of Greece’s most respected and widely enjoyed beers. The brewery is committed to using the finest ingredients and traditional brewing techniques, resulting in a range of high-quality beers.
Tasting Notes:
- Type: Lager, Red Ale, Weiss
- Flavor:
- Vergina Lager: Smooth and easy-drinking with a mild hop bitterness.
- Vergina Red Ale: Richer, maltier flavor with a hint of caramel.
- Vergina Weiss: A refreshing wheat beer with a cloudy appearance, featuring notes of banana and clove, and a creamy, smooth finish.
- Perfect Pairing:
- Vergina Lager: Grilled meats and veggies.
- Vergina Red Ale: A hearty meat stew or a slice of Greek cheese.
- Vergina Weiss: Pair it with lighter fare like salads, seafood, or a plate of fresh fruits and nuts.
Wrap-Up: Cheers to Greek Beers
Greece’s beer scene is as vibrant and diverse as the country itself. From the historic brews of Fix Hellas to the innovative craft creations of Nisos and Septem, there’s a Greek beer to suit every palate. Exploring these native beers is not only a delightful way to cool down after a day of sightseeing but also a chance to connect with Greece’s evolving craft beer culture. So, on your next vacation to Greece, raise a glass and toast to the flavors of this beautiful country—one sip at a time.
Cheers!
