Liatiko Recipe

Combine liquids

Pour 1 cup Liatiko (or other red wine) and 3 cups water into a medium saucepan. Stir to combine.

Add 3/4 cup granulated sugar to the liquid and stir gently to dissolve before heating.

Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest, 1 tablespoon orange peel, 1 cinnamon stick, and 3 whole cloves to the saucepan.

Warm the mixture over medium-low heat. Do not boil — heat until steam rises and small bubbles form at the edges (about 8–10 minutes) to allow the aromatics to infuse and the sugar to fully dissolve.

Taste after 8 minutes. If you prefer a stronger spice or citrus note, simmer an additional 2–3 minutes, keeping the heat low so alcohol does not fully evaporate.

Remove the saucepan from heat. Use a fine-mesh sieve to strain the liquid into a heatproof pitcher or bowl, discarding the solids (cinnamon, cloves, peels, and zest).

Stir in 2 teaspoons brandy or raki, if using, to add depth and help preserve aroma.

Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature (about 20–30 minutes), then chill in the refrigerator until cold (about 1 hour) or serve over ice immediately for a refreshing lightly sweetened Liatiko spritzer.

To serve: fill 4 glasses with ice (divide 1 cup ice among them), pour the chilled mixture evenly into the glasses, garnish each with a mint sprig, and serve.