Discover the traditional alcoholic drinks of Tahiti!
Alcoholic beverages are an integral part of Tahitian culture, and parties or family gatherings often cannot do without these beverages. Some are grown on the island and even created using locally sourced produce. The most common drink is certainly the Tahitian alcoholic punch.
Punch is made from fruit juices such as pineapple and orange, but can also consist of various liquors. It goes very well with all the strong alcohols traditionally available in Tahiti.
The Po’o’i
Po’o’i is a lucrative liquor, or alcohol infusion, which is now popular in Tahiti. It is traditionally made from tiare flowers, a flower that is very typical of the region. With a low alcohol level, Po’o’i has a sweet, spicy taste and a subtle smell. It is consumed to cool off, especially during large gatherings and festive occasions.
Tiquili
Tiquili is a grain-based alcoholic drink distilled by the people of Tahiti and known for its golden color and sweet taste. It is prepared using a variety of mixed fermented grains, including cassava, rice and corn, all mixed with water, sugar and salt.
The Tiquili can be eaten neat, but it is usually served with a little fruit liqueur. It is very popular with Tahitians for its comforting side and for its lightness.
pia
Pia is an alcoholic drink obtained by distillation of a variety of local plants and spices. The recipe is kept secret by insiders, but the most common ingredients include grapes, taro, sugar, herbs and flowers. Pia is highly valued for its wide variety of flavors and colors, as well as for its aromatic properties.
This drink is very old and is part of the culinary and food heritage of the Tahitians. Watch your intake as the Pia is very strong and can easily make your head spin.
Coconut Wine
Coconut wine is an alcoholic drink made from coconut milk that was perfected by the people of Tahiti. It is made from fresh coconut milk, sugar and fruit juice, which gives it a sweet and pleasant taste. Fermentation can take up to six months, resulting in a rich, dark liquor.
Coconut wine is very popular with Tahitian communities as well as tourists. It is served hot or cold depending on preference and is usually accompanied by a plate of fresh fruit.
There Vahina is a liqueur made from fresh coconut oil called copra. Vahine is produced by fermenting copra mixed with water, then treating it with herbs, spices and sugar. This drink has a rich taste and is particularly powerful, which makes it a very typical and popular drink in Tahiti.
Although it is sometimes considered too strong for consumption, the Vahine is very popular with residents and tourists who discover the variety of Tahitian drinks. It is important to remember that this drink is very strong and should not be consumed excessively.
Traditional Tahitian alcoholic beverages are a unique blend of indigenous flavors and cultures. French Polynesia is known for its many alcoholic beverages, including Tahiti Kaha, Tahiti Hinano, and Tahiti Vahine. Tahiti Kaha is a slightly malty beer, while Hinano and Vahine are liqueurs. Click here to discover the typical alcohols of French Polynesia and to learn more about these traditional drinks. They are perfect to accompany your meal or to celebrate a special occasion. Discover them and taste their unique flavor!
Comparative table of traditional Tahitian alcoholic beverages
| Beverage | Main Ingredients | Taste/ Smell |
|---|---|---|
| Tahitian Punch | Fruit juices, various liqueurs | sweet, fruity |
| Po’o’i | tiara flowers | Spicy, sweet |
| Tiquili | Cassava, rice, maize | sweet, light |
| pia | Seeds, herbs, flowers | Variety of tastes and smells |
| coconut wine | Coconut milk, tropical | Sweet, slightly sweet |
| Vahina | Copra, spices, plants | rich |
The variety of alcoholic beverages available in Tahiti is vast and each of them carries a particularity that makes it unique. The combination of fruits and plants gives unique flavors that will make you appreciate the Tahitian terroir.
It is important to remember that drinking in moderation is always the best choice to enjoy all varieties of Tahitian alcoholic beverages without adverse consequences. Whether you are a local or a tourist, you can have fun enjoying the drinks with all the necessary precautions and enjoy them at any time.