Naxos is not only about its beaches. It is also about the secrets you discover inland, in villages like Halki. At the heart of this charming settlement, behind a modest door, lies the Vallindras Distillery, the home of the famous Kitro of Naxos. The story of Kitro dates back centuries, when local vine growers used citron leaves to flavor their raki, creating what was once called “kitrorako.”
In the late 19th century, Markos G. Vallindras gave new life to this tradition. In 1896, he obtained the first official license to operate a distillery in Halki, organizing and developing production. From there, Kitro traveled across the world — from Russia and Egypt to Asia Minor and America — earning distinctions at international exhibitions in Marseille, Bordeaux, Liège, Athens, and Thessaloniki.
Stepping inside today, you are immediately embraced by the scents. Citron leaves, alcohol, wood and old paper blend into a heady perfume that carries you back in time. The walls, filled with diplomas, old licenses and photographs, narrate a tradition preserved for more than a century.
There, the current hostesses — Eirini Fragkoudaki and her daughters — welcome you with a warm smile. With simplicity and affection, they talk about the secrets of distillation: the leaves collected in the winter cold, the hours the copper stills boil before the spirit is born. Every word brings the images to life, as if you could see the old Naxians working at the very same threshold.
The highlight of the visit comes with the tasting:
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Yellow Kitro – strong and dry, 36°,
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White Kitro – balanced, 33°,
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Green Kitro – sweeter and lighter, 30°.
Three flavors, three interpretations of the same tradition. With every sip, you taste what fills the room itself: the essence of citron leaves, the freshness of the island, the heritage of five generations.
✨ Travel Tip: After your visit, wander through the narrow alleys of Halki. In the central square you’ll find cafés with homemade sweets, small galleries and shops with handcrafted products – the perfect finale to an unforgettable experience.
A heartfelt thank you to the hostesses for their warm hospitality.
Special thanks to Meteora Tours for the wonderful suggestion that led us to this journey of scents and history in Naxos.
