Pilavas Ouzo

Pilavas Ouzo is a Greek ouzo brand that combines more than 70 years of tradition, family craftsmanship, and authentic Greek drinking culture. It is one of the most famous producers of this iconic aniseed distillate, which is as much a symbol of Greece as olives, the sea, and sirtaki.

The history of the Pilavas brand begins in 1940, when Nikos Pilavas, originally from the island of Chios, came to the city of Patras. Pilavas Over the following decades, the family developed their vision – in 1950, they established their first family distillery on Voulgareos Street in Patras.

In 1976, Nikos Pilavas passed on the secrets of distillation to his son Panagiotis so that he could continue the tradition. Pilavas Two years later, in 1978, Panagiotis established a second distillery on G. Olympiou and Koumaniotou Streets in Patras.

Two years later, around 1980, the company moved to 177 Panepistimiou St. in Patras to accommodate its rapid growth and expansion. Pilavas In 1990, Panagiotis' sons, Nikos and Pericles Pilavas (the third generation), took over the management. As a result of further growth, the distillery moved to its own private land on the Old National Road 31 Akteo, Patras. There, they built modern facilities covering an area of 3,500 m², which allow for the production of up to 6,000 bottles per hour.

In addition, Pilavas boasts ISO 9001 and HACCP certifications, confirming their commitment to quality and safety. Today, the Pilavas brand exports to nine European countries, but remains a family business with a modern profile.

Pilavas Ouzo is produced using the traditional method of distillation in copper stills. The key ingredient is aniseed, complemented by various aromatic herbs and spices that make up the Pilavas family's secret recipe. Typical additions include fennel, cinnamon, coriander, and mastic.

After distillation, the drink is mixed with pure water and then aged to blend and smooth the flavors. The result is an ouzo with an alcohol content of 38 - 40 % ABV, characterized by a delicate sweetness, freshness, and a distinctive anise aroma.

Pilavas Ouzo has a classic flavor profile: dominant anise, subtle spicy and herbal nuances, smooth, clean, and fresh finish. It is traditionally served with water and ice, which turns its clear color milky (the so-called "louche effect"). It is a drink that is an integral part of Greek dining – it is drunk with small dishes (meze) such as olives, cheeses, seafood or grilled specialties.

In addition to classic ouzo, Pilavas also produces:

- Tsipouro (traditional grape distillate),

- Brandy,

- Liqueurs of various flavors.

Today, Pilavas products are exported to more than 35 countries around the world, so they can be found not only in Greece, but also in bars and restaurants throughout Europe and America.

The Pilavas family distillery has been in continuous operation for over 80 years, still using the same traditional methods. Patras, where it is based, is one of the centers of ouzo production, similar to Mytilene on the island of Lesbos. In Greece, ouzo is often considered the national drink, and it is brands such as Pilavas that maintain its authentic character.

Pilavas Ouzo is a brand that embodies Greek hospitality and lifestyle. It is the result of family tradition, precise distillation, and a love of original recipes. Whether you taste it directly in a Greek tavern by the sea or at home with friends, Pilavas brings a piece of authentic Greece to your glass – with the aroma of anise, the taste of tradition, and a long-standing heritage.