Introduction
Metaxa, a quintessential Greek spirit, has made its mark on the world with its unique flavor and rich history. Although often referred to as brandy, Metaxa is more accurately described as a brandy-based flavored spirit, meticulously crafted by combining brandy, sweet wine from the island of Samos, and a secret elixir of Mediterranean botanicals. Join us on a journey to discover the intriguing tale of Metaxa and its exceptional taste.
A Silk-Inspired Legacy
The Metaxa brand was born in 1888, thanks to the vision of Spyros Metaxas, a tavern owner with deep roots in the silk trade. Inspired by the smoothness of silk, Metaxas set out to create a distinctive spirit that would be renowned worldwide. Appropriately, the Greek word for silk is “metaxi,” thus giving the spirit its name.
Metaxas’ dream took shape as he built the first distillery in Athens’ port of Piraeus. With the support of the Greek diaspora, the spirit soon found its way to international markets, including the United States. In 1968, a modern distillery was established in the Athenian suburb of Kifissia, further elevating Metaxa’s production. The company’s rich heritage includes a logo featuring the Salamina Warrior, a symbol that connects the brand to ancient Greek history.
Crafting the Metaxa Spirit
The journey of creating Metaxa involves blending distinct elements to achieve its signature taste:
1. Base Brandy
Metaxa sources about 80% of its base brandy from Spain and Italy, with the remaining portion coming from Greece. Made from three Greek grape varieties—Savatiano, Sultanina, and Korinthiakos—the Greek brandy undergoes column distillation. After one year of aging in French Limousin oak casks, the brandy gains complexity and character.
2. Sweet Wine from Samos
Sweet wine made from Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains grapes is the second key component. Metaxa acquires this wine from vineyards in the center of the picturesque island of Samos, where grapes flourish at elevations between 600 and 1,600 feet above sea level. The island’s constant winds contribute to grape health, resulting in thicker-skinned grapes with rich flavor compounds.
3. Secret Herbal Elixir
The third ingredient is an herbal extract, the exact composition of which is known only to a select few. One confirmed ingredient is rose water derived from the May rose, also known as Provence rose. The petals from these roses are carefully gathered from bushes at approximately 2,500 feet above sea level and macerated in a water-alcohol solution. The herbal elixir undergoes separate maceration, and then the components are combined.
4. Aging Process
After the initial blending, the mixture ages for at least two years in large, neutral wood casks. Metaxa also boasts some extraordinary blends aged up to 30-40 years. The aging process imparts depth and complexity to the final blend.
The Metaxa Lineup
Metaxa offers a core lineup consisting of 5 Star, 7 Star, 12 Star, and Private Reserve bottlings. Each expression conveys its quality level rather than indicating maturation length. Generally, higher numbers signify increased aging and a higher percentage of Samos wine in the blend.
Here are tasting notes from a recent visit to the distillery:
1. Metaxa 5 Star
The 5 Star Metaxa boasts a floral nose, highlighted by rose petals, lemon blossom, and jasmine, accompanied by candied orange and wood spice notes. On the palate, peach and apricot flavors mingle with golden raisins, complemented by well-integrated oak wood and sandalwood undertones.
2. Metaxa 7 Stars
Similar to the Five Star expression, the Seven Star features concentrated flavors with a brandy-like profile. Cinnamon and coffee notes are more pronounced, alongside peach, apricot, raisin, and prune flavors.
3. Metaxa 12 Stars
The Metaxa 12 Star offers a richer palate and layered complexity. With aromas of fig, prune, raisin, and candied orange, it introduces earthy notes of black pepper and chili. The spirit’s extended aging contributes to its apparent dryness and higher tannin levels.
4. Metaxa Private Reserve
A rare find in the US, the Metaxa Private Reserve showcases more spice, particularly cinnamon, and less stone fruit on the nose. Dried fruit notes of raisin, fig, and prune, along with dark chocolate and rancio aromas, create an exceptional olfactory experience. On the palate, the spirit is smooth and honey-sweet, with notes of dark dried fruit, chocolate, and dried/candied orange zest.
Conclusion
Metaxa, a gem among Greek spirits, has captivated brandy enthusiasts worldwide. Although not strictly considered brandy under current EU regulations, Metaxa’s unparalleled flavor and complexity make it a beloved choice for aficionados. Its captivating blend of fruit and spice lends itself beautifully to savoring neat or as a base for delightful cocktails. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or a curious explorer, experiencing the magic of Metaxa is an opportunity not to be missed.
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