What does Arak taste like?

Arak tastes primarily of anise — clean, herbal, and aromatic with a subtle grape fruitiness. When mixed with water, the flavor softens and opens up. Neat, it's intensely aromatic and high-proof (typically 50–60%).

How is Arak different from Ouzo or Pastis?

All three are anise-flavored spirits. Arak is grape-based and higher proof with a drier profile. Ouzo uses a neutral grain base with additional botanicals. Pastis is made by maceration rather than distillation. Arak is the oldest of the three.

Arak

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Arak El Rif Blue

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Arak – Authentic Middle Eastern Anise Spirit

Arak is the national spirit of Lebanon and one of the oldest distilled spirits in the world — grape-based, double or triple distilled, and redistilled with anise seeds in traditional copper pot stills. The result is a clear spirit that turns milky white when mixed with water and ice (the louche effect). The defining drink of Lebanese and Levantine hospitality, traditionally served with mezze alongside chilled water and ice.

How to Drink Arak

Pour Arak into a glass first, then add water (1 part Arak to 2–3 parts cold water), then ice. Always add water before ice. Serve with mezze — hummus, tabbouleh, grilled meats, cheese — and drink slowly throughout a meal.

Featured Producers

El Massaya — Bekaa Valley, triple-distilled, aged in clay amphorae. Exceptionally pure with a clean anise character and long finish. Ksarak — Triple-distilled, the most widely available authentic Lebanese Arak in the United States.