{"title":"Tekirdag","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"tekirdag-rakisi-750ml","title":"Tekirdag Rakisi 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTekirdag Rakisi 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a premium Turkish raki made from grape alcohol and aniseed, bottled at 45% ABV (90 proof) in a 750ml bottle. Regarded as the raki of choice among gourmet drinkers in Turkey, Tekirdag stands apart for its use of prized Çeşme aniseed and a meticulous double-distillation process in traditional copper pot stills.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 45%  |  Origin: Turkey  |  Style: Anise-Flavored Spirit (Raki)  |  Producer: Mey İçki (formerly Tekel)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTekirdag Rakisi is produced by Mey İçki, one of Turkey's largest spirits producers and successor to the historic state monopoly Tekel. The spirit begins as grape-based alcohol, which is then twice distilled in traditional copper pot stills with aniseed sourced from the Çeşme region on Turkey's Aegean coast — widely considered the finest anise-growing area in the country. A distinctive step in Tekirdag's production is the careful management of the distillation cut, referred to in Turkish raki-making tradition as \"söndürme\" (extinction in the cauldron), where precise proportional blending of the mid-run distillate shapes the spirit's signature smoothness. Following distillation, the raki is rested briefly in oak barrels before bottling, contributing subtle depth and a rounded character uncommon in many competing raki brands.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate, well-integrated aniseed leads the nose, followed by faint hints of dried citrus peel and a subtle herbaceous quality. The aromatics are clean rather than aggressive, signaling a refined distillation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The palate entry is silky and smooth, immediately delivering pure anise flavor that broadens at mid-palate into gentle citrus and warm spice notes. There is a natural sweetness from the grape-based spirit that balances the licorice-like intensity of the anise, keeping the profile harmonious rather than one-dimensional.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium-long, with lingering aniseed and a subtle fruitiness that trails off gradually. The texture remains soft and clean through the close, without the harsh burn that can mark lesser anise spirits.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Tekirdag Raki\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe traditional Turkish serve — known as \"aslan sütü\" (lion's milk) — involves mixing one part raki with two parts cold water in a tall glass, which turns the spirit a milky white, then adding ice. This dilution opens up the anise aromatics and creates a refreshing, sessionable drink ideal alongside a long meal. Beyond the classic serve, Tekirdag works well in a \u003cstrong\u003eMediterranean Mule\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the anise adds complexity alongside ginger beer and lime; a \u003cstrong\u003eRaki Sour\u003c\/strong\u003e, substituting for pastis to bring Turkish character to citrus and egg white; and a \u003cstrong\u003eRaki Highball\u003c\/strong\u003e with soda water and a squeeze of grapefruit, which highlights the spirit's citrus undertones.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting a traditional Turkish meze dinner with friends\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting someone who enjoys exploring anise-flavored spirits from different cultures\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExpanding a home bar's Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spirits selection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSummer evening sipping alongside grilled seafood or charcuterie\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Tekirdag Raki taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Tekirdag Raki delivers a smooth, well-balanced anise flavor supported by subtle citrus and warm spice, with a silky texture and a clean, moderately long finish. It is less aggressive than many anise spirits, making it approachable while retaining authentic raki character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Tekirdag Raki compare to ouzo?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are anise-flavored spirits that louche (turn milky) when mixed with water, but Tekirdag Raki is grape-based and double-distilled in copper at 45% ABV, typically yielding a drier, more spirit-forward profile than most Greek ouzos, which are often bottled at 40% ABV and can carry more residual sweetness. Raki tradition also favors longer, meal-length drinking diluted with water, whereas ouzo is commonly served as a shorter aperitif.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Tekirdag Raki good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e It can be sipped neat for those who enjoy concentrated anise flavor, but it is traditionally and most commonly enjoyed diluted with cold water and ice, which softens the 45% ABV and opens up the aromatic range considerably.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Tekirdag Raki made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Tekirdag Raki is produced in Turkey by Mey İçki, using grape alcohol distilled with aniseed sourced from the Çeşme district on the Aegean coast. The brand takes its name from the Tekirdağ province in Turkish Thrace, a region historically associated with premium raki production.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Tekirdag Raki?\u003c\/strong\u003e White cheese and honeydew melon — a classic Turkish meze pairing that contrasts the anise with sweet and salty elements. Grilled octopus or calamari, whose charred, briny flavors complement the spirit's herbal notes. Hummus and warm flatbread for a simple, textural match. Stuffed grape leaves (dolma), where the herbaceous filling echoes the anise aromatics. Lightly spiced lamb kebabs, whose richness is cut cleanly by the spirit's refreshing quality when diluted.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Tekirdag Raki come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard bottle is 750ml, which is the most widely available format in international markets. In Turkey, larger formats such as 1L and 70cl bottles are also commonly found.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Tekirdag Raki worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Tekirdag Raki positions as a premium expression within the raki category, priced above basic domestic Turkish rakis but remaining accessible compared to ultra-premium or limited-edition releases. Its use of Çeşme aniseed and careful double-distillation process justify its standing as the benchmark premium raki for most enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Tekirdag Raki?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTekirdag Raki has earned its reputation as Turkey's go-to premium raki through a combination of high-quality raw materials and disciplined distillation. The use of aniseed exclusively from Çeşme — Turkey's most respected anise-growing region — gives it an aromatic purity that generic rakis cannot match. Its double distillation in copper pot stills and brief oak resting period add layers of smoothness and subtle complexity that set it apart in a crowded category. For anyone serious about exploring the world of anise spirits beyond ouzo and pastis, Tekirdag represents the definitive Turkish entry point.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tekirdag","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837096882345,"sku":"26270","price":28.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/tekirdag_rakisi__25025.jpg?v=1730478228"},{"product_id":"tekirdag-gold-rakisi-700ml","title":"Tekirdag Gold Rakisi 700ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTekirdag Gold Rakisi 700ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a premium oak-aged Turkish raki made from 100% fresh grapes and high-quality aniseed, bottled at 45% ABV. Twice distilled in copper alembics and aged a minimum of 90 days in oak barrels, this expression earned 89 points from Tastings.com, distinguishing it as one of Turkey's more refined raki offerings.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 45%  |  Origin: Tekirdağ Region, Turkey  |  Oak-Aged (minimum 90 days)  |  Distillery: Mey İçki, Istanbul\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTekirdag Gold is produced by Mey İçki, Turkey's dominant spirits producer headquartered in Istanbul. The raki begins with 100% fresh grapes distilled twice through traditional copper alembic pot stills — a method that preserves aromatic intensity while refining texture. What separates Tekirdag Gold from the brand's standard expression is its minimum 90-day maturation in oak barrels, a step that introduces subtle wood influence and rounds out the spirit's naturally assertive anise character. The aniseed itself is sourced from Çeşme, a coastal town on Turkey's Aegean coast renowned for producing Turkey's most aromatic anise. A key production distinction lies in the careful management of the mid-distillate — referred to traditionally as \"the belly\" — during the copper pot distillation, a technique that contributes to the spirit's balance and depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pronounced anise seed leads, followed by dried citrus peel, straw, and a thread of toasted hazelnut. The oak aging contributes a warm, herbal undertone with hints of Mediterranean dried herbs beneath the dominant aniseed bouquet.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is silky and immediately anise-forward, but the mid-palate opens into gentle baking spices and a subtle sweetness that standard raki rarely achieves. As it develops, citrus and a layered spice complexity emerge, with the oak influence providing structure rather than overt wood flavor.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and smooth, with a lingering essence of refined spice and clean aniseed that fades gradually into dried fruit. The texture remains silky throughout, never turning bitter or harsh even as the warmth settles.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Tekirdag Gold\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe traditional Turkish serve remains the gold standard: pour Tekirdag Gold into a tall, narrow glass and add chilled water at roughly a 1:1 or 1:2 ratio, watching the spirit turn its characteristic milky white — the \"lion's milk\" effect. Adding a single ice cube after dilution is common during warmer months. For cocktail applications, Tekirdag Gold's oak-aged complexity makes it unexpectedly versatile. A \u003cstrong\u003eRaki Sour\u003c\/strong\u003e (substituting raki for whiskey with lemon and simple syrup) highlights the anise-citrus interplay. A \u003cstrong\u003eMediterranean Highball\u003c\/strong\u003e with soda water, a squeeze of grapefruit, and fresh mint lets the herbal aromatics shine. An \u003cstrong\u003eAnise Old Fashioned\u003c\/strong\u003e, built with a barspoon of honey syrup and orange bitters, leans into the oak influence and spice profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting a traditional Turkish meze dinner with friends and family\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a spirits enthusiast who enjoys anise-forward liquors like ouzo, pastis, or arak\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing someone to premium raki beyond the standard category\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing with grilled seafood, cured meats, and Mediterranean appetizers at a summer gathering\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Tekirdag Gold taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Tekirdag Gold delivers a rich, silky anise flavor complemented by gentle baking spices, dried citrus, and a subtle sweetness derived from its fresh grape base and oak barrel aging. The finish is long and smooth with lingering refined spice and clean aniseed.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Tekirdag Gold compare to Efe Raki Gold?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are premium Turkish rakis made from fresh grapes and aged to add complexity beyond standard expressions. Tekirdag Gold tends toward a silkier texture with more pronounced oak influence from its barrel aging, while Efe Gold is often described as slightly bolder in its raw anise intensity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Tekirdag Gold good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Tekirdag Gold can be sipped neat, though the traditional and most common Turkish method is to dilute it with chilled water, which opens up the aromatics and softens the 45% ABV to a more approachable strength.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Tekirdag Gold made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Tekirdag Gold is produced by Mey İçki in Turkey, drawing its name from the Tekirdağ region in Turkish Thrace, an area historically associated with high-quality raki production. The aniseed is sourced from Çeşme on Turkey's Aegean coast.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Tekirdag Gold?\u003c\/strong\u003e White cheese and honeydew melon — the classic Turkish raki accompaniment — is essential. Grilled octopus or calamari complement the anise with charred, briny notes. Cold meze like hummus, cacık (yogurt-cucumber dip), and stuffed grape leaves match the herbal character. Grilled lamb kebabs stand up to the spirit's spice, and roasted eggplant dishes mirror its smoky oak undertones.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Tekirdag Gold come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Tekirdag Gold Rakisi is commonly available in the 700ml bottle size, which is the standard format for this expression in most markets.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Tekirdag Gold worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Tekirdag Gold positions as a premium expression within the Turkish raki category, sitting above standard Tekirdağ Rakısı thanks to its oak aging and Çeşme aniseed sourcing. For drinkers already familiar with raki, the added complexity and smoother finish represent a meaningful step up in quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Tekirdag Gold?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe oak barrel aging — a minimum of 90 days — is the defining feature that sets Tekirdag Gold apart in a category where most expressions skip maturation entirely. That barrel time, combined with copper alembic double distillation and premium Çeşme aniseed, produces a raki with genuine depth and a silky texture uncommon at this level. Its 89-point score from Tastings.com confirms what the traditional production method promises: a spirit with real complexity beyond its anise-forward foundation. For anyone seeking a raki that rewards slow sipping alongside a spread of meze, Tekirdag Gold delivers that experience with clarity and refinement.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tekirdag","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837097144489,"sku":"26271","price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/tekirdag_gold_rakisi__50535.jpg?v=1730478232"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/tekirdag.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}