Gazoza and Vissino Refresher

Growing up Greek, one didn’t grown consuming that much soft drinks (soda as the yanks call it). We had pop (what us Canadians call it) in the house but it was there for guests or on occasion given to us.

In Greece, there’s 7-UP, Sprite later arrived but for as long as I can remember, the Greek offering was “gazoza”. Produced by regional makers of soft drinks, gazoza was the local 7-UP.

With our family from northern Greece, we were familiar with the Florina roster of soft drinks. Practically every region has their own line of soft drinks. Which one is your fave?

For this fantastic summer drink, you’ll need one gazoza type drink, a jar of Vissino, lime juice, limes and ice. If you’re feeling devlish, work some booze into the mix.

This recipe is inspired by Sonic Drive In’s Cherry Limeade but I think you’re going to like my Greek-a-fied version more.

Gazoza and Vissino Refresher

(for a large pitcher)

2L bottle of gazoza, 7-UP or Sprite

1 jar of Vissino (sour cherry spoon sweet) or jar of maraschino cherries

1 cup fresh lime juice (about 8 limes)

lime slices for garnish

1. In a large pitcher, add the 7-UP, vissino syrup and cherries, lime juice and stir until incorporated.
2. Place some ice cubes in a tall glass, pour yourself a glass, garnish with lime slice and enjoy!

Gazoza and Vissino Refresher

(for a one drink)

2-3 Tbsp. of vissino syrup (or maraschino cherry)

220ml can of gazoza, 7-UP or Sprite

3-4 cherries from the vissino

juice of 1/4 to 1/2 lime

lime slice garnish

1. Add the syrup, 7-UP and mix. Add your cherries, lime juice to taste and top with ice and lime wedge.

TIP: Serve with a long spoon to scoop out the cherries in the glace.