Roots Spirits | Athens, Greece

MEET THE MAKER

In 2013, brothers Manos and Nikolas Smyrlakis set out to reconnect with a piece of their family’s history. Inspired by their deep-rooted connection to Greece’s oldest distillery, they returned to the traditions of Greek spirit making, bringing time-honored recipes together with rare, native ingredients to create Roots.

The result is a distinctive collection of premium liqueurs and non-alcoholic spirits that honors Greece’s rich heritage while taking a fresh, modern approach. At the heart of Roots is a respect for the ingredients, flavors, and traditions that have shaped Greek culture for generations, paired with a curiosity about where those traditions can go next.

The Smyrlakis brothers call their journey “going back to our Roots.” We think that's a pretty perfect description of what they've created: a celebration of where they come from, thoughtfully reimagined for today.

WHY WE LOVE IT

We discovered Roots Divino Rosso and Divino Bianco on a recent trip to Greece, and they were exactly the kind of find we love to bring home to The Savory Pantry. What really impressed us was the flavor. These aren't drinks that feel like a compromise simply because they're alcohol-free. They have the complexity, bitterness, botanicals, and character you want in a great cocktail, making it possible to enjoy a beautifully crafted drink without the alcohol.

Divino Rosso has a gently bitter character with enticing aromas of gentian and bitter orange. Pour it over ice and add tonic for a floral, botanical spritz that is refreshing, sophisticated, and full of flavor.

Divino Bianco is a zero-proof, wine-based white vermouth infused with Mediterranean botanicals including rosemary, thyme, wormwood, and Greek lemons. It is a delicious alcohol-free vermouth for anyone looking for an elegant N/A vermouth alternative. Mix it with a non-alcoholic gin alternative and garnish with an olive for a wonderfully complex take on a classic martini.

Whether you're choosing to go alcohol-free all the time or simply want a delicious alternative for a night off, Roots makes it easy to enjoy the ritual and pleasure of a great cocktail. We love that you can give up the alcohol without compromising flavor.