Step into the world of METAXA, crafted by the visionary Spyros Metaxa in 1888, METAXA stands as Greece’s one-of-a-kind amber spirit. Recently, our team had the opportunity to visit its cellars in Athens embarking on an enchanting Cellar Experience journey.
Few brands boast a legacy spanning three centuries. METAXA, this unparalleled amber spirit crafted from aged wine distillates, Greek Muscat wines, along with a secret infusion of Mediterranean herbs and spices, proudly claims its place among them.
Our collaboration with METAXA began last year, marked by our first project – a media trip to LIKNON METAXA’s second “home” on the island of Samos, nestled within an organic Muscat vineyard.
Engaging with METAXA’s leadership revealed an extraordinary story that we were fortunate to immerse ourselves in. Invited to partake in the distinctive Cellar Experience at the House of Metaxa in Kifissia, we witnessed the narrative we had previously written about in press materials come to life.
Our guide and client, Huity Konstantinidou, Hospitality and Events Director for the House of Metaxa, shared Spyros Metaxa’s vision of creating a spirit that defied categorization—neither cognac nor brandy, but a spirit with its own identity. This exceptional elixir, unchanged since its inception 135 years ago, has captured the hearts of Greeks and earned admiration worldwide, from the US and Canada to Germany, the Czech Republic, and beyond.
The tale continued with insights into METAXA’s emblem, the “Salamina Warrior”, inspired by an ancient Greek coin, that Spyros Metaxa discovered during the construction of the original distillery in Piraeus. The emblem pays homage to the pivotal Battle of Salamis in 480 BCE. Unchanged, with a few tasteful adjustments, the logo stands as a symbol of METAXA’s enduring history.
Descending into the House’s Cellars, located 6-7 meters below ground, we were guided by the next Metaxa Master, Kostis Kalpaxidis, who offered a detailed presentation on every aspect of METAXA’s production and supply chain. The secret recipe, guarded by the Metaxa family and Masters, features fine aged wine distillates, the distinct Samos Muscat wines and a blend of Mediterranean herbs and botanicals. Every single blend that goes in every bottle is overseen by the Metaxa Master, ensuring consistent quality with the final benchmark set by their discerning palate.
The journey culminated in a tasting of METAXA’s unique spirits. Among them was the recently launched METAXA Orange, recommended by Mr Kalpaxidis to be savoured with Mediterranean Tonic water and a twist of orange peel. Additionally, we indulged in the timeless METAXA 12 Stars, enjoyed both neat and as a delightful base for long drinks or cocktails.
In fact, it’s not a surprise that METAXA spirit, flavour, and dynamism have great success as the main ingredient of tasteful and inspiring cocktails that are highly trendy among the youth. We have already enjoyed it in popular bars and clubs and is recommended by highly respected bartenders. It’s inspiring to see how a spirit with a rich history and tradition can be transformed and leveraged as a top choice for the younger generations.
An unforgettable evening, leaving us with deep admiration for this historic brand.
We feel privileged to contribute to METAXA’s success, both in our home country and abroad.
