Rakomelo is a Greek alcoholic beverage that combines raki or tsikoudia with honey and a variety of spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and other regional herbs.
It has a bright, warm amber colour and, as a blend of strong alcohol and honey, features a naturally sweet, delicate yet spirited taste with a subtle hint of spice, leaving a rich, velvety feel on the palate.
Because of its two key ingredients, raki and honey, rakomelo is a digestive spirit rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids, and is traditionally used by many Greeks as a home remedy for a sore throat or cough.
The history of rakomelo dates back to the 12th century, when the Peloponnese peninsula was under Frankish occupation. Other accounts place its origin on the islands of Crete and Amorgos or other Cycladic islands.
Today, rakomelo is produced in Crete, other Aegean islands, and on the Greek mainland. It is mainly consumed during the winter as a warm drink, with a sweet like pasteli or halva simigdalenio, but can also be enjoyed ice cold as a shot during a summer visit to the Greek islands.
Rakomelo from Amorgos is one of the island’s most beloved traditional drinks, a warm and fragrant blend of local raki infused with honey and aromatic spices. Crafted with care and often served gently heated, it captures the essence of Amorgos in every sip—wild herbs, sun-soaked landscapes, and a deep-rooted sense of hospitality. Its smooth sweetness and subtle warmth make it perfect for cool evenings, shared among friends in seaside tavernas or under starlit skies. More than just a drink, rakomelo is a taste of Amorgian culture, where simplicity and authenticity come together in the most delightful way.
