Of course THE Greek alcoholic drink is ouzo, available in all shapes and sizes and usually at ridiculously low prices.

In days gone by it was traditionally drunk at an 'Ouzeri', where an order of ouzo would automatically be accompanied by a variety of appetisers much in the style of Spanish tapas. Nowadays most bars and tavernas treat it like any other drink, but there are still Kafenions which will bring you a small plate of pikilia - olives, sausage, pickled vegetables etc - which make a delightful accompaniment to the drink.

Ouzo makes a fine aperitif - not least because of its miraculous powers to settle the stomach before the onslaught of the olive oil!

There is also a variation on the theme in the shape of Tsipouro, usually drunk after the meal. This can either be aniseed flavoured or not, and has much in common with Italian grappa. As such, treat it with caution. You may find you really like it, but it is definitely NOT to everybody's taste.