Introducing 35N Cretan Distillery: A Taste of Crete in Australia

Introducing 35N Cretan Distillery

At Greek Providore, we’re thrilled to bring the essence of Crete to Australia with 35N Cretan Distillery’s exceptional range of spirits. 35N captures the heart and soul of Crete’s rich distilling tradition through a selection of finely crafted tsikoudia and ouzo.

The Inspiration Behind 35N

The name “35N” represents a geographical point on the 35th parallel north, which runs through Crete—a land with a history spanning 5,000 years. This parallel symbolizes the deep connection between the island’s ancient heritage and the contemporary spirit embodied in their distillates. The name reflects their commitment to preserving traditional Cretan distillation methods while appealing to modern palates.

Distinctive Grape Varieties and Craftsmanship

35N’s tsikoudia stands out due to its careful selection of grape varieties. The team works with stable winegrower partners to ensure the highest quality of grapes and grape marcs. Through decades of testing, they have identified varieties that yield the most flavourful and aromatic spirits. Their single-variety tsikoudia, including those made from Moschato, Syrah, and Malvasia di Candia Aromatica grapes, showcases distinctive aromatic profiles through a slow distillation process that enhances each variety’s natural richness.

Honouring Tradition with a Modern Touch

35N is dedicated to honouring the traditions of Cretan tsikoudia while appealing to contemporary tastes. The production process respects traditional methods but incorporates modern technology to maintain high standards of health and safety. This balance ensures that the spirits retain their authentic flavours while evolving to meet modern preferences.

Unique Offerings and Enjoyment

One of 35N’s standout products is their refined ouzo. Unlike typical ouzos, 35N’s version is light, delicate, and features subtle aromas. It’s a pure product that embodies the essence of Greek summer. For those who enjoy their spirits in cocktails or pairings, the team recommends trying their tsikoudia straight to appreciate its unique aromas and exploring cocktail recipes.

Bringing Crete Home to Australia

We are honoured to import 35N Cretan Distillery’s remarkable spirits to Australia. Their commitment to quality and tradition, combined with their innovative approach, makes their tsikoudia and ouzo a true reflection of Crete’s spirit. Each sip of 35N brings a piece of Crete closer to you, offering an authentic taste of the island’s rich heritage.

Continue reading for our exclusive Q&A with Vicky from 35N Cretan Distillery, where we delve deeper into the inspiration behind their name, their unique grape varieties, and how they honour Cretan traditions while appealing to modern tastes.

Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind the name 35N and how it reflects the essence of Crete?
35N stands for a small spot on our planet’s 35N parallel, the location of an ancient island with a history of 5000 years whose residents have always been living and acting with heart and soul. This island is Crete. The name of the distillate is Tsikoudia. That’s why our slogan is: 35 is not a number, it is the way to explore Crete.

What makes the grape varieties used in 35N’s Tsikoudia stand out in terms of taste and quality?
We have stable partners, winegrowers, who follow our instructions so that we can ensure every year the best purchase of grapes and grape marcs. The choice of varieties is not accidental. Many decades of testing have pushed us to come up with which varieties give us
the desired result.

How do you ensure that the traditions and history of Cretan Tsikoudia are honoured in your products while also appealing to modern tastes?
Tsikoudia 35 is distilled the way it used to be. However, the machines are modern, the processing obeys all the protocols that ensure human health, and we have taken advantage of all modern means to perfect the result and not to mutate it. The younger audience we have, vindicated us with its search for traditional flavours that have a spirit of evolution.

What distinguishes 35N’s single-variety tsikoudia, particularly those made from Moschato , Syrah and Malvasia di Candia Aromatgica grapes?
We loved the fact of identifying varieties in a spirit. Our slow distillation ensures the "filling" of the aroma's characteristic of the variety. That "testify" to its aromatic richness.

What’s so special about this Ouzo?
Our ouzo is different from the usual. It is light and delicate. We wanted an ouzo with discreet aromas. It is a product of 100% distillation. A pure product. A pure product that encapsulates the Greek summer.

What’s your favourite way to enjoy 35N Tsikoudia and Ouzo. Do you have a go-to cocktail or pairing?
We definitely want someone to try it plain, to understand the aromas of each product. Then, you will find on The Greek Providore website as well as our social media recommended cocktails by expert bartenders here in Greece.

When you’re not working, what’s your favourite place to relax and unwind in Crete? Any hidden gems you’d recommend?
Crete is full of gems. So, they not hidden. Apart from the magical place, the blessed terroir, Crete can offer a gastronomic experience that will satisfy even the most demanding.

As someone passionate about the business, what’s the most rewarding part of working with 35N Cretan Distillery?
People's acceptance. The way the product was embraced. You know, every bottle that someone simply opens and enjoys, hides a laborious process. The joy of being recognised is what keeps us going.

If you could choose one thing you want Australians to know about 35N spirits, what would it be?
I think our slogan encapsulates the whole concept, especially for friends who are far away. So, in every sip, you will bring Crete a little closer to you.

What’s your favourite food to pair with 35N tsikoudia or ouzo especially when sharing it with
friends and family?
Each product has its own Pairing. For Ouzo, the small meze is ideal. For Syrah we would say that meat is a wonderful combination. Our blend needs fried fishes, the acidity of this product complements this type of cooking. Muscat of Spinas would go great with a shrimp spaghetti. The Malvasia Di Candia Aromatica would love a panna cotta. The Tsikoudia with Honey is a galaktoboureko or orange pie and the Aged Tsikoudia ,dark chocolate, nuts, accompanied by a cigar.

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