Ouzo No. 12 is the classic anise-flavored Greek spirit, poured at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. One of the most recognized ouzo brands in the world, it is built on a blend of aniseed and aromatic botanicals and turns a beautiful cloudy white when met with water or ice. We list it as a warm, Mediterranean welcome to the table, an aperitivo in the truest sense, from our family to yours.
About the Producer
The Ouzo 12 name traces to the Kaloyannis family, who began distilling in 1880. According to the house’s history, the brand was first distilled in Constantinople before the family’s roots carried it to Greece. Discerning guests came to insist on being served from “Barrel No. 12,” the cask whose spirit was so smooth and aromatic that it became the house recipe and gave the brand its name and lasting reputation.
What’s In It
Ouzo 12 is made from a blend of herbs, seeds and fruits whose aromas are drawn out by maceration and distillation. Aniseed sits at its heart, joined by botanicals that include fennel and additional aromatics, layered over a grape-based and neutral spirit. The distillate is carried through a series of copper stills. The hallmark of any true ouzo is the “ouzo effect”: clear in the glass, it turns milky and opalescent the moment water or ice is added, as the anise oils, soluble in alcohol but not water, gently cloud the spirit.
Tasting Notes
Expect a forward, fragrant aroma of anise and licorice, rounded by warm, sweet spice. The palate is smooth and aromatic, with the cooling, slightly sweet character of anise carrying into a clean, refreshing finish. Served chilled or over ice with a splash of water, it softens into something silky and inviting.
What to Pair It With
Ouzo shines beside Mediterranean small plates. It is wonderful with our Saganaki, lovely alongside the Spaniard Octopus, and a natural match for Fresh Oysters. Ask your server to build a spread from the full dine-in menu.
How It’s Served at Grappa
We pour Ouzo No. 12 chilled or over ice with a splash of water at $11 per serving, so you can watch it turn cloudy as the meal begins, by candlelight.
FAQ
Where is it from?
Ouzo No. 12 is a Greek spirit, made by the house founded by the Kaloyannis family, who began distilling in 1880. It is one of the most recognized ouzo brands in the world.
What does it taste like?
It tastes of anise and licorice with warm, sweet spice, smooth and aromatic, with a clean, cooling finish, especially when served chilled or over ice.
Why does it turn cloudy with water?
That is the “ouzo effect.” The anise oils dissolve in alcohol but not in water, so when you add water or ice the oils separate and scatter light, turning the clear spirit milky white.
To enjoy Ouzo No. 12 with us, book a table, explore the cocktail & spirits list, and browse the dine-in menu.
