World Raki Week is back! Yeni Rakı, Türkiye’s iconic anise-flavoured spirit and the world’s top-selling rakı brand, has been a cornerstone of Turkish social life for generations. Often called ‘Lion’s Milk’ for its milky appearance when mixed with water, this unique spirit, crafted from premium grapes and aniseed, carries a history dating back to 2000 B.C. Deeply rooted in Turkish culture and tradition, rakı embodies the joy of togetherness and the art of hospitality. From 29th November to 8th December, Yeni Rakı invites people worldwide to celebrate the second annual World Rakı Week. With events in London and other cities, this global celebration brings cultures together to honour rakı’s rich heritage and its unifying spirit.
The Legacy of Yeni Reki
Yeni Rakı has been a staple of Turkish dining and social traditions since its launch in 1937, embodying a rakı-making heritage spanning over 500 years. Crafted with care, it blends fresh and dried grapes with premium aniseed, undergoing a double distillation process in traditional copper stills. This meticulous method gives Yeni Rakı its smooth, aromatic character, celebrated for its ability to complement Turkish mezze dishes, such as seafood, cheeses, and spicy dips. Known as ‘Lion’s Milk’ for its transformation when mixed with water, Yeni Rakı captures the essence of Anatolian hospitality and shared moments.
More than just a simple drink, Yeni Rakı represents a cultural ritual, uniting people around lively conversations and vibrant meals. Its iconic flavour profile and distinctive traditions—such as slow sipping and pairing with a variety of small plates—have made it a symbol of togetherness in Türkiye and beyond. By balancing respect for its origins with a global appeal, Yeni Rakı continues to be the world’s leading rakı, connecting past and present with each glass
World Raki Week in London
Discover more at World Raki Week

All imagery courtesy of World Raki Week.





