Hillas Ouzo 700ML

Hillas Ouzo 700ML is a traditional Greek anise spirit distilled on the island of Lesvos at 40% ABV (80 proof). Produced by the Greek Distillation Company S.A. in Mitilini (Mytilene), this ouzo draws its character from the island widely regarded as the spiritual home of ouzo production in Greece.

Quick Facts: ABV: 40%  |  Origin: Mitilini, Lesvos, Greece  |  Style: Traditional Ouzo  |  Distillery: Greek Distillation Company S.A.

Production & Heritage

Hillas Ouzo is produced by the Greek Distillation Company S.A., based in Mitilini on the island of Lesvos — an area with a centuries-long tradition of ouzo distillation and a protected geographic association with the spirit. The production follows traditional Greek distillation methods, relying on premium anise seeds and a selection of Mediterranean botanicals native to the region. Lesvos is home to more ouzo distilleries than any other part of Greece, and its terroir — particularly its local anise varieties — contributes to a distinctive softness that separates its ouzos from those produced on the mainland.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Delicate licorice leads the nose, followed by mild herbaceous notes and a gentle underlying sweetness. A subtle freshness rounds out the bouquet, keeping it inviting rather than aggressive.

Taste: The entry is smooth and clean, with sweet fennel and classic anise tones arriving immediately on the palate. Mid-palate, a subtle citrus backbone emerges alongside a touch of warm spice, adding dimension without overwhelming the core anise character. The overall impression is balanced and refreshing.

Finish: Clean and slightly dry, with lingering herbal sweetness that fades gradually. There is no harsh burn — just a composed, gently warming close that invites the next sip.

How to Drink Hillas Ouzo

The traditional Greek serve is neat or with cold water added to taste — the water triggers the characteristic louche effect, turning the clear spirit a milky white and softening the anise intensity. Ice can also be added, though purists recommend adding water first to avoid crystallization of the anise oils. Beyond the classic serve, Hillas works well in several cocktails: an Ouzo Lemonade, where the anise pairs naturally with fresh citrus and soda for a Mediterranean refresher; a Greek Mojito, substituting ouzo for rum to bring herbal complexity alongside mint and lime; and a Mediterranean Mule, combining ouzo with ginger beer and a squeeze of lemon for a spiced, aromatic twist on the classic mule format.

Best For

• Serving alongside a Greek meze spread with friends and family
• Introducing someone to ouzo who has never tried the category
• Summer entertaining with chilled water-diluted serves
• Building a Mediterranean spirits collection beyond the usual gin and vodka selections

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Hillas Ouzo taste like? Hillas Ouzo delivers a smooth, refreshing anise flavor supported by sweet fennel, soft herbal undertones, and a subtle citrus backbone. The finish is clean and slightly dry with lingering herbal sweetness.

How does Hillas Ouzo compare to Mini Mytilene Ouzo? Both are produced on the island of Lesvos and share a smooth, accessible character rooted in traditional Mytilene distillation. Hillas tends to present a slightly drier finish, while Mini Mytilene leans into a rounder sweetness, though both occupy a similar everyday-quality tier within the ouzo category.

Is Hillas Ouzo good for beginners? Yes — its smooth, balanced profile and 40% ABV make it an approachable entry point into the ouzo category, especially when diluted with cold water in the traditional Greek style.

Where is Hillas Ouzo made? Hillas Ouzo is distilled by the Greek Distillation Company S.A. in Mitilini (Mytilene), on the island of Lesvos, Greece. Lesvos is historically recognized as the heartland of Greek ouzo production.

What foods pair well with Hillas Ouzo? Grilled octopus, where the charred smokiness contrasts the anise sweetness; briny feta and olives, which balance ouzo's herbal notes; fried calamari, whose crisp texture and mild seafood flavor complement the spirit's clean palate; fresh watermelon and white cheese, a classic Greek summer combination; and taramasalata or hummus, whose creamy richness is cut by ouzo's refreshing anise character.

What sizes does Hillas Ouzo come in? The standard widely available format is the 700ml bottle.

Is Hillas Ouzo worth the price? Hillas Ouzo positions as an accessible, everyday ouzo — well-suited for regular enjoyment and meze gatherings rather than special-occasion sipping. Its Lesvos provenance and traditional production offer genuine quality at an entry-level price tier within the category.

Why Hillas Ouzo?

What distinguishes Hillas is its origin on Lesvos, the island most closely associated with ouzo production in Greece. The local anise varieties and botanical traditions of Mitilini give the spirit a regional authenticity that mainland-produced ouzos cannot replicate. Its clean, balanced profile makes it versatile enough for neat sipping, traditional water-diluted service, and cocktail experimentation. For drinkers looking for a genuine Lesvos ouzo without a premium price tag, Hillas delivers honest, well-made character true to the island's distilling heritage.