χύμα κρασί
chyma krasi
The English phrase "house wine" is translated into Greek as χύμα κρασί (chyma krasi).
χύμα κρασί refers to a relatively inexpensive wine sold in restaurants. In Greek tavernas, this specifically refers to the wine served from large containers or jugs rather than from specific branded bottles.
Meaning: a relatively inexpensive wine sold in restaurants (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
chyma krasi
Did you know?
- The word κρασί is a diminutive form meaning 'blending'. In ancient Greece, drinking wine neat was considered barbaric, so it was almost always mixed with water.
- While κρασί is the common word for wine, Greek also has a separate word, οίνος, which is used primarily in formal, religious, or poetic contexts.
- In a traditional Greek setting, ordering χύμα κρασί often signals a desire for the more rustic, unpretentious experience of the taverna rather than a formal seated service.
Example conversation
At a traditional Greek tavern.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΝίκο, θα παραγγείλουμε χύμα κρασί;Niko, tha parangeiloume chyma krasi;Nikos, shall we order house wine?
- Νίκος NikosΝαι, ας πάρουμε ένα κιλό χύμα κρασί.Ne, as paroume ena kilo chyma krasi.Yes, let's get a kilo of house wine.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΕίναι φθηνό και νόστιμο.Ine fthino kai nostimo.It is inexpensive and tasty.
- Νίκος NikosΣωστά, είναι ιδανικό για το φαγητό μας.Sosta, ine idaniko gia to fagito mas.True, it is ideal for our food.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries κρασί, χύμα, CC BY-SA 4.0.
