There’s an unwritten Greek rule: a ‘meze’ demands a drink. Whether that drink is wine, ouzo, tsipouro, or beer, it’s really a matter of personal taste. As the summer sun climbs high, we’ve curated the best bottles—wines, beers, and spirits—that pair beautifully with Greece’s iconic small plates.
A Taste of the Mediterranean Way of Life
Meze—those savory small dishes at the heart of Greek and Mediterranean culinary culture—are more than just food. They’re a reason to gather, to talk, to linger. Whether it’s tonight, tomorrow, or yesterday, meze is often the silent invitation that brings people together.
But can meze stand alone, without a glass of something cold and spirited on the side? Not quite. Just as drinking alcohol without food is considered a faux pas, a table of meze without a complementary drink lacks something essential. As Newton might say (if he were Greek), for every flavor, there must be a corresponding sip.
Summer Rules: Stay Cool, Stay Hydrated
There’s an old Greek saying: “In months without an ‘R,’ add water to your wine.” It’s a tongue-in-cheek reminder from the era of household wine-making, suggesting moderation in warmer months when supplies ran low. It doesn’t account for beer, ouzo, or tsipouro—but it does make one important point: when the mercury rises, alcohol dehydrates. For every glass of wine or spirit, drink a glass of water to stay balanced under the sun.
Now, let’s set aside the clichés and explore some inspired, exciting combinations of meze and drink—pairings that are as flexible and fun as topping a pizza. Whether you stick to tradition or venture into the unexpected, summer meze is all about sharing, experimenting, and savoring.
For the Wine LoversSideritis Natur 2023 – Tetramythos Winery
From the coastal hills of Aigialeia, Tetramythos brings us a naturally vinified white made from the lesser-known but charming Sideritis grape. Fermented and aged in ceramic vessels under a flor yeast veil, this wine has no added sulfites and only 11% ABV. It’s crisp, fruity, multi-layered, and a standout choice for light seafood meze.
Pet Nat 2024 – Bosinakis Winery
A sparkling rosé from Mantinia, made with the aromatic Moschofilero grape. The Bosinakis family has long championed this region and variety, and their latest release delivers bold aromatics, fresh acidity, and a zesty finish. At 12.5% ABV, it’s a festive, lively partner to fried fish, tangy cheeses, or herb-laced dips.
Mystik Rosé 2024 – Aleris Wines
Winemaker Spyros Vlachos and his team combine 83.5% Agiorgitiko with a touch of Syrah (15%) and Merlot (1.5%) to produce this vivid rosé. It’s packed with red stone fruit flavors and sweet spice, yet remains structured and complex. At 13% ABV, it pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, spicy sausage, or charred octopus.
For Spirit EnthusiastsBarbayannis Ouzo – Red Label
A classic from one of Greece’s most iconic distilleries on the island of Lesvos. This premium ouzo (47% ABV) offers a bouquet of anise, wildflowers, and nuts, with a long, elegant finish. Serve it chilled alongside marinated anchovies, olives, or fried zucchini.
Verino Tsipouro
Crafted in the Peloponnese near the town of Argos, Verino’s tsipouro (59% ABV) is a hidden gem. Surprisingly smooth for its high alcohol content, it offers layers of floral, herbal, and fruit notes without the burn. Sip slowly with cured meats, sharp cheeses, or savory pies.
Kazani Stoupakis Ouzo – Black Label
This ouzo carries history in every drop. Distilled in Chios by the Stoupakis family since 1900, it’s rich, refined, and balanced at 46% ABV. With finesse and character, it complements meze classics like grilled sardines or tomato keftedes (fritters).
For the Beer AficionadosKatsika Yellow – 6.5% ABV – Folegandros Microbrewery
This artisanal bière de garde is the only Greek beer ever recommended on a Michelin-starred menu. Slightly hazy with intense citrus, spice (think dried coriander and cinnamon), and subtle oak undertones from barrel aging. A flavorful partner to roasted meats, aged cheeses, or spicy dips.
Robbie Fresh Lager – 5.5% ABV – Main Squeeze Brewing
A masterclass in simplicity. This lager may seem straightforward, but it’s precisely balanced—clean, crisp, and brewed with care. Ideal for just about any summer dish, from grilled souvlaki to fresh salads and dips.
Jasmine IPA – 6.2% ABV – Strange Brew
Despite the name, this Greek take on an East Coast IPA contains no jasmine. But what it does offer is juicy, hoppy flavor with a mildly bitter finish. Made with oat, wheat, and LN3 yeast, it’s a robust choice that pairs perfectly with bold meze—like spicy soutzoukakia (meatballs) or pepper-stuffed feta.
Meze and Drinks: A Mediterranean State of Mind
When it comes to meze and drinks, there’s no strict formula—just a willingness to explore. Whether you’re clinking glasses by the sea or assembling a spread in your own kitchen, what matters is good company, curious palates, and the pleasure of tasting something new.
Let your summer table be loud with conversation, vibrant with flavors, and always, always stocked with something refreshing to sip.