The Turkish spirit known as raki (Arrack) has been a popular
drink in the region since the days of the Ottoman Empire. It is a clear brandy,
distilled from grape wine, mixed with anise for flavor, and is aged in barrels
for a short period, leading to a spirit with a 40-50% ABV. The clear liquid
becomes milky in appearance when water is added, which has led to the nickname
‘Lions Milk’ (Link 1). Typically, it is sipped with meals, following the
tradition of a ‘Raki Table’ in which philosophers and leaders would eat appetizers
and discuss important ideas while under the influence (Link 2). Turkey’s modern
founder, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, was an avid drinker of the spirit and he would
often sport a glass while conversing about politics, especially when it would
anger his more traditional rivals (Link 3).
Raki remains popular today despite pressure from non-secular
government officials in the Muslim nation. That popularity may soon take a
downward spiral, as non-secular political parties have increased pressures
through taxation and limiting advertisement and celebration of Turkey’s
unofficial liquor. These government crackdowns on raki are having an added side
effect of increases in unregulated liquor, causing multiple deaths in recent
times (Link 4).
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