Lesvos – Mytilene

Ouzo Matis is located on the island of Lesvos… the Ouzo Capital of the world!

Lesvos has a long-standing tradition in ouzo production. The island is blessed with fertile land and a rich variety of plants and herbs. Combined with its geographical position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, these conditions have enabled local producers to craft and market ouzo of exceptional quality. Lesvos is particularly renowned for its anise fields, especially in the region of Lisvori, where the aniseed—one of the key aromatic ingredients in ouzo production—is cultivated.

Ouzo production flourished on Lesvos during the 19th century, when the port of Mytilene became an important transit and export hub, from which large quantities of ouzo were shipped to Constantinople.

Matis Distillery has been producing ouzo in the same traditional way since 1861 and is one of the oldest distilleries on the island. With deep respect for tradition and a strong commitment to quality, it continues to craft ouzo using time-honoured methods passed down from generation to generation, preserving its authentic character and the distinctive aromas of Lesvos anise.

Based in Mytilene, the distillery has significantly contributed to the island’s reputation as the “capital” of ouzo. By combining local raw materials, expertise, and decades of experience, Ouzo Matis has established itself in both the Greek and international markets as a premium and authentic spirit from Lesvos.