Maybe most of us regard Greece as a summer country with warm sand, hot winds and dusty streets, but there are winters in Greece too, of course. Greece has several ski areas, and even in the mildest areas, like Nafplio, the thermometer could crawl down to zero. And then the Greeks drink Rakomelo. Rakomelo is perfect in Advent and Christmas, as it consists of sweet honey and Christmas spices like cinnamon and cloves.
It is possible that you can’t get hold of Greek spirits like raki, tsipoura, tsikouda, (dear children, etc…) Do not despair. Vodka will highlight the honey and spice tastes, but use grappa if you want more character, more like the original Rakomelo.
- 75 ml raki or other liquor (see above)
- 1 teaspoon Greek thyme honey or other liquid honey
- 1 / 2 cinnamon stick
- 1 clove
Put everything in a small pan and heat it slowly and gently until the honey melts and steam starts to rise. Remove the cinnamon stick and clove. (The cinnamon may of course be used again if you make more Rakomelo.) Drink while it’s hot! Enough for two shots, or one small drink (in Greek standards).