Thomas Charuhas [email protected] @LiveToBeAncient

Thomas Charuhas [email protected] @LiveToBeAncient

In partnership with Michelin Star Chef, Nick Stefanelli, the founders of Ancient Foods set out to find true artisans who produce healthy and delicious foods in ancient ways. The foods are often found in remote locations around the world. We find the authentic and ancient foods, support the artisan producers and farmers, and bring their rich history, traditions and flavors to market under the brand name Ancient Foods. We believe that food is a special way to experience ancient traditions and appreciate the rich history of the people who still live by

them today. These artisans are proud of their craft and we want to take customers

on that journey to these remote and unique places. We believe the best foods come from places that stay true to their roots and heritage. We work tirelessly to find locations that are off the beaten path and are often the talk of legends. We partner with artisans around the world that have sustained excellence and tradition throughout generations. There are eight products from Greece that we would like to highlight in this letter. These products were sourced across many trips to Greece, which featured visits to small towns and producers both in the mountains and by the sea. Michelin Star Chef, Nick Stefanelli, was personally involved with the selection and sourcing as he scouted products for use in his forthcoming Greek restaurant in Washington, D.C.

Nick Stefanelli, Michelin Star Chef, Masseria Washington, D.C.

@LiveToBeAncient Thomas Charuhas [email protected] 703.582.4493

Keros Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Details

I come from Vordonia on the outskirts of Sparta, the child of ancient Athenian olive trees in the mountainous Spartan rock. I was there when King Leonidas scaled the face of Mount Taygetos: I have seen the birth of great civilizations. My name means "The Perfect Moment", and I represent the resilient spirit of the people.

I am a 100% USDA Organic certified product.

Flavor

Elegant and complex. I boast a rich, grassy nose with hints of fresh herbs, and a round, buttery, peppery finish. I bring out the flavors of vegetables and salads and am amazing when braising meats and hearty dishes. Terroir

The unique Athenoelia olive trees growing on one of the tallest and historic mountains in Greece produce a flavor like no other. These trees are beautiful and truly ancient, with some over 1000 years old. They grow in the hillside rocks and must be harvested carefully by hand. Being among such majestic trees with their gnarled trunks and bountiful branches was something that touched our soul.


Édafos PDO

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Details

I come from the coastal town of Sitia on the Greek Island of Crete, where the Minoans were the first to cultivate the Olive Tree millennia ago. I am the child of these ancient, century old trees. My rich and unspoiled olive groves are surrounded by natural herbs, wildflowers and the deep azure waters of the Mediterranean. My name means “unique soil and climate of the area” and I am the great gift of my ancient culture.

I also have a Protected Designation of Origin

Flavor

My Koroneiki olives are hand harvested and cold pressed within hours of picking to create a deep golden oil. I am fresh & fruity, with a smooth citrus finish. Terroir

The rocky soil of Crete contains a rich geological mix that includes limestone and even sea-dwelling fossils. The island is the furthest south in Greece and has the most arid climate of southern Europe. Flavors of everything that grow here are more intense and heartier due to the dry air, the Mediterranean Sea on all sides, and the altitude of the mountains.


ILÍA Wild Forest and Thyme Honey

Details

I come from the roaming hives of Vordonia, where bees forage wild thyme and the forests that cover the mountainside. My name ILÍA means “From the Sun” which sustains the herbs and forest together on the mountain.

Flavor

I have an earthy, intense flavor, with floral notes of thyme shining through in a rich, sweet finish. Terroir

The arid climate and altitude of this area creates some of the most intense flavor in the herbs and trees that grow there. This honey comes from bees foraging on wild Thyme and trees that are indigenous to the area. The beekeeper and his ancestors use ancient methods and has his bee hives follow specific locations in the mountains throughout the year.


IRÍNI Organic Thyme Honey

Details

I am crafted by generations of beekeepers on monastic land on the island of Crete. The hot and dry climate of my mountains create some of the most intense herbs in the world.

I'm also a 100% USDA Organic certified product.

Flavor

My arid climate and closeness to the sea gives me a herbal, savory flavor with an intense thyme flower aroma and pleasant, sweet finish. Terroir

The rocky soil of Crete contains a rich geological mix that includes limestone and even sea-dwelling fossils. The island is the furthest south in Greece and has the most arid climate of southern europe. Flavors of everything that grow here are more intense and hearty due to the dry air, the mediterranean sea on all sides, and the altitude of the mountains.


Organic Greek Mountain Tea Details

I come from the rocky slopes of Mount Taygetos, near the small village of Vordonia. I was discovered by shepherds in the mountains and am often called the “Shepherd’s Tea”. In ancient times, the great surrounding cities of my region used me for refreshment and healing. This tradition is carried on to this day, thousands of years later. I am naturally caffeine free and delicious whether hot or cold.


Flavor

I am smooth, yet earthy and bright, with a touch of citrus and herbal notes. I am often enjoyed with my best friend, mountain honey. Brewing Instructions

Use your favorite tea press or infuser with a small handful of tea (3g). Or, for maximum flavor and benefits, boil for 3-5 minutes, let it steep for 3-5 minutes, then remove herbs or strain. Enjoy your Mountain Tea!


Organic Cretan Sage Tea Details

I come from the coastal slopes of eastern Crete, near the town of Sitia. My botanical name means “to save” in Latin, alluding to the many health benefits the earliest doctors from Greece to Asia appreciated. You can find me in any house or restaurant in Crete, where the locals drink me for my healthy and soothing properties, usually with wild honey. I am naturally caffeine free and delicious whether hot or cold.


Flavor

I am robust, extremely aromatic and slightly peppery with eucalyptus and citrus notes. Brewing Instructions

Use your favorite tea press or infuser with a small handful of tea (2.5g) and steep for 4-6 minutes. Or, using the pot method, add just-boiled water, let it steep for 3-5 minutes, then strain. Add wild Cretan honey to taste and enjoy your Sage Tea!


Organic Greek Oregano from Vordonia

Details My name in Greek means “Mountain Joy” and is said to have been given to me by the goddess Aphrodite as a symbol of happiness. The ancient Greeks were the first to use me, but my popularity quickly spread to the Romans and as far away as Asia. I am the quintessential, flavorful herb of the Mediterranean diet, and have been used for millennia for my flavor and medicinal properties.


Flavor

I am deeply aromatic with savory, earthy qualities throughout and notes of lemon, black pepper and mint. I am the perfect accompaniment to Mediterranean dishes of vegetables, lamb, or fish, and a staple for dressings and marinades.


Organic Cretan Thyme

Details I come from the mountain highlands of eastern Crete, near the town of Sitia. My name means "courage" in Ancient Greek. As part of ancient tradition, Minoan warriors would exchange my leaves as a sign of respect. I have a long, storied culinary history and I maintain a wonderful flavor when dried.


Flavor

I am an extremely aromatic herb with an earthy, peppery tone with hints of clove and mint fragrance that help invigorate the culinary senses.

Thomas Charuhas [email protected] @LiveToBeAncient

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