The History, Production, and Varieties of Rakı: The Essential Spirit of the Table
- Oct 7, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: 10 hours ago
Rakı is one of Turkey’s greatest cultural treasures. More than just a drink, it is a symbol of friendship, sharing, and a heritage spanning centuries. This culture, brewed in the heart of Anatolia, continues to thrive today through modern tavern experiences at places like Kepos Balık Evi in Çayyolu, Ankara.
Would you like to take a closer look at the history, alchemy, and varieties of this legendary spirit?
The Deep History of Rakı: From the Abbasids to Today
The journey of Rakı goes back much further than most think. It traces back to the distillation techniques of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) period in the 5th century and the later use of the "el-imbik" (alembic) during the Abbasid period in the 8th century. However, the "Lion's Milk" culture as we know it took its true shape during the Ottoman Empire, particularly in the 16th century.
The Era of Evliya Çelebi: In the 17th century, the famous traveler Evliya Çelebi mentioned "Arakçiyan" (rakı producers) in his Seyahatname. At that time, rakı was consumed plain or with added mastic (gum resin).
The 19th Century and Tavern Culture: Following the Tanzimat reforms, Rakı took center stage in the taverns of Galata and Pera. In the Republic era, with the establishment of modern facilities, it reached international standards and entered global gastronomy literature as Turkey's national drink.
How is Rakı Made? (The Art of Distillation)
Rakı is essentially the alchemy of grapes and aniseed. In the first stage, grapes are fermented to produce a high-proof spirit called suma. In the second stage, this suma is distilled again in traditional copper stills together with aniseed.
"A classic evening at Kepos. Peace in the glass, flavor on the table. 🥂 You are at the right address for fresh mezes and deep conversations. We are waiting for you tonight!"
Why does Rakı turn white? The aniseed oil in rakı is soluble in alcohol but insoluble in water. When water is added, the oil droplets are released, giving the drink its characteristic milky-white color. Some premium varieties are aged in oak barrels to gain a much smoother, woody character.
Popular Rakı Varieties and Palates
At Kepos Balık Evi, we offer an extensive cellar featuring varieties for every taste:
Yeni Rakı: The world-famous classic with a balanced anise and grape aroma.
Yeni Seri & Uzun Demleme: Smoother options produced with fresh grapes and slow distillation (up to 72 hours).
Altın Seri & Efe Gold: Sophisticated tastes with amber tones, produced from 100% fresh grapes and aged in oak barrels.
Beylerbeyi Göbek: A favorite for those seeking a smooth finish, distilled three times using only the "middle" (purest) part of the distillate.
Kulüp Rakı: Known as the favorite of Atatürk (the founder of modern Turkey), it has a nostalgic, high-alcohol yet balanced character.
The "Kepos" Experience: More Than Just a Meal
Rakı is a social spirit. It is a whole when paired with white cheese, melon, olive oil mezes, and fresh seafood. At Kepos Balık Evi, this tradition meets modern hospitality:
Live Music Spirit: Every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, your table turns into a celebration with live Kanun and Guitar performances featuring 90s Turkish Pop and Classical Turkish Music (TSM).
Corporate & Business Dinners: With our spacious hall and VIP fireplace rooms, we offer the most serene environment in Çayyolu for corporate events, team-building activities, and business meetings. On weekdays and Sundays, we host groups with special fixed-menu options.
"Whether you are here for a lively celebration or a quiet business dinner, Rakı is the bridge that turns a meal into a conversation."
Conclusion: The Art of Socializing
Regardless of which variety you choose, this ancient drink always opens the door to sincere conversation. At Kepos Balık Evi, we keep this culture alive in Ankara with our daily fresh fish, signature mezes, and music that appeals to every ear.
📞 Reservation & Info: +90 312 235 67 31 📍 Address: Mutlukent Mah. Angora Bulvarı No: 66, Çayyolu/Ankara 📱 Follow Us: Instagram @keposbalikevi
