Aniseed (anise) liqueur
ReferenceFrance, Greece, Turkey, Lebanon, Spain
Tasting Notes
Star anise, fennel seed, licorice root, green anise, wormwood (in some), mint, herbes de Provence. The louche effect is visual flavor: clear spirit turns milky-white as water releases the oils. Warm, coating, persistent finish.
Brand Guide
Well
Pernod ($20-25), Ricard ($20-25)
Call
Henri Bardouin Pastis ($30-35)
Premium
Herbsaint ($25-30, the Sazerac standard)
Top Shelf
Marie Brizard Anisette ($25-30, sweet style). Ouzo: Metaxa Ouzo ($20-25), Plomari ($25-30). Each regional style is its own world
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The Story
Licorice in liquid form. The Mediterranean's most polarizing and ancient flavor tradition.