Greeks turn to cheap, traditional spirits

Traditional Greek spirits like raki, ouzo and tsipouro are attracting more drinkers in Greece as they are more affordable for those struggling financially due to the crisis, according to recent research which found that the cheaper spirits have also become the preferred drink among those suffering from alcoholism.

In 2015, tsipouro or raki was the preferred drink for nearly one-third of those suffering from alcohol dependence, compared to 21.7 percent in 2011, according to a report compiled by the Greek Documentation and Monitoring Center for Drugs (EKTEPN).

Whiskey, vodka and cognac, more expensive drinks, were preferred by 16 percent of alcoholics in 2015, compared to 27.1 percent four years before that, the same report found.