Razzouk Arak
Razzouk Arak
Razzouk Arak is a renowned anise-based spirit that hails from the heart of Lebanon. This traditional Lebanese arak is meticulously crafted by distilling grape juice with fresh aniseeds, resulting in a distinctive and vibrant flavor profile. Rooted in a rich history of distillation attributed to Arab alchemists in the 13th century, Razzouk Arak has been a symbol of Lebanese culture and craftsmanship for generations. With a legacy dating back to 1918, when it became the first brand to bottle and sell arak to the public, this spirit embodies the Middle Eastern character and is a testament to the enduring traditions of the region.
Tasting Notes
Shipping
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Manufacturing
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Why Gifted Pour recommends it
For the friend who loves long tables, shared plates and slow conversation, this Lebanese arak brings a whole tradition in one bottle. It is made by distilling grape juice with fresh aniseeds, and the result smells of green anise and licorice with herbal undertones, then tastes crisp and lively, with a gentle sweetness from the grape and a clean, herbal finish. What makes it feel considered is the ritual it invites: add cold water, typically one part arak to two or three parts water, and watch it turn milky white before serving over ice alongside meze. The brand's story reaches back to 1918, when it became the first to bottle and sell arak to the public, which gives the gift a sense of heritage worth telling. It suits a host who cooks Middle Eastern or Mediterranean food, a newly settled couple stocking their first bar, or anyone with Lebanese roots who would appreciate a taste of home at the next family gathering.
Pairs well with
- Meze with hummus and tabbouleh — The crisp, herbal anise cuts through creamy hummus and echoes the fresh herbs in tabbouleh.
- Grilled fish or kebabs — A clean, herbal finish and lively anise freshness lift smoky, charred flavors from the grill.
- Housewarming dinner party — The louche ritual of adding water and watching the arak turn milky white gives guests a shared moment around the new table.
Questions about this bottle
What is Razzouk Arak made from?
Razzouk Arak is a traditional Lebanese arak made by distilling grape juice with fresh aniseeds. The grape base lends a subtle sweetness, while the aniseed gives the spirit its bold, defining anise character.
What does Razzouk Arak taste like?
Expect a fresh, aromatic anise nose with licorice, green anise and herbal undertones. On the palate it is crisp and lively, with anise balanced by a light grape sweetness, and the finish is clean and herbal with lingering anise freshness.
Why does arak turn milky when water is added?
This is called the louche. When cold water is added, typically one part arak to two or three parts water, the anise-flavored spirit turns milky white. It is the heart of the classic Lebanese arak ritual, usually served over ice with meze.
Can Razzouk Arak be used in cocktails?
Yes. Beyond the traditional water-and-ice serve, it works in an Arak Sour: combine arak, fresh lemon juice and simple syrup over ice, then garnish with a lemon twist. It can also be enjoyed simply on the rocks or served as a pre-meal aperitif.
