Şira A Traditional Drink

Şira A Traditional Drink

We discussed the benefits of “şıra” with Yavuz İskenderoğlu, who started producing this highly beneficial, mineral- and vitamin-laden beverage in Bursa.

Viticulture and grape cultivation is taken very seriously in Anatolia, where it has been practiced for thousands of years without interruption. In sacred texts, grapes are mentioned just much as olives and figs, and there are several varieties endemic to Anatolia.
When the grapes are ripe and sweet, besides being consumed as a fruit, they are also used for making grape vinegar, molasses, and fruit leather. There is also a beverage derived from grapes in Anatolian culture, called “şıra,” the production of which is an old tradition that unfortunately started disappearing over time.
Şıra, the partially fermented juice of fresh grapes, is produced from ripened grapes using various methods. We discussed şıra, which is very beneficial thanks to the minerals and vitamins it contains, with Yavuz İskenderoğlu, who started producing the drink in Bursa.
What is şıra?
The drink resulting from the squeezing of fresh grapes is called “şıra.” Its composition includes nitrogenous substances, mineral salts, and significant amounts of grape sugar. Because this sugar is absorbed into the blood directly, it is a vitamin-filled drink that provides a quick boost of energy.
How did the idea of producing şıra come about?
We are the heirs of a very valuable and rich cuisine. Anatolia exhibits a wealth of civilization that has received nourishment from several different cultures. The food and drinks of this wealth are of a very high quality and are well-suited to human nature.
Proper nutrition is as important to mental development as it is to physical development, especially for young people and children. Developmental problems are frequently observed in children who consume excessive fast food and sodas.
Şıra, which has no additives, is naturally sweet and contains lots of vitamins and minerals; it is one of the treasures of Anatolia. I was motivated by the fact that such a treasure faces extinction. Pushing all my abilities, I decided to produce and promote this traditional drink.
Have you been able to find information on the history of şıra in your research?
The grape has a history of thousands of years in Anatolia and Mesopotamia. In various parts of southeastern Anatolia, there are holes carved into the rocks where squeezed grape juice was stored.
In some of these grape workshops, there are holes numbering forty, interconnected by channels. The grape is such a versatile product that you can make several products from the same fruit. Şıra, a beverage that is thousands of years old, is one of these.
What kind of grapes is used to make şıra?
Şıra is ideally produced from dark red Öküzgözü grapes dried on the vine. When this kind of grape cannot be found, other dark grape varieties can be used to make şıra.
Why are dark grapes preferred?
Dark grapes contain concentrated amounts of resveratrol. Resveratrol is an antioxidant found in various plants. It is found in the highest amounts in the skin and seeds of dark grapes. Particularly in Pinot Noir, which is a kind of dark grape, it is known to exist at a very high concentration of 1,165 mg per kg.
Since resveratrol is the strongest antioxidant in the world, it prevents nitric oxygenation in the body, and hence prevents the accumulation of plaque in and narrowing of blood vessels, and by regulating blood circulation, it breaks down cholesterol and fats on the inner walls of blood vessels while also presenting heart disease and strengthening the immune system. It protects against headaches and cancer, and boosts kidney and liver function. It is effective in cleansing the blood, renewing cells, and dissolving fat.
What are your goals for şıra?
I believe that this drink should not be limited to the borders of Turkey. With the right promotion, perhaps this drink can become accepted by the masses especially in the Middle East. There is no reason for şıra not to be liked, considering its benefits, long tradition, and the fact that it is a noncarbonated beverage.
As for the taste, it is delicious alongside any meal. Bearing all of this in mind, as of 2010, I have been participating in international food fairs where I try to promote this national treasure. On the other hand, in the Middle Eastern market, it is very important for the product to have certification showing that it is suitable in terms of the Islamic religion.
We have made the necessary applications to receive this document. My biggest goal is to have şıra introduced as the national drink of Turkey all over the world and to make it popular.
WHAT IS ŞIRA?
Pasteurized şıra is a nonalcoholic, noncarbonated beverage that contains no sweeteners or chemical preservatives.
EFFECT ON DIGESTION
According to scientific research, there is a substance in dried black grapes called inulin, which stimulates the digestive system and keeps it healthy.