One of the most well-known alcohols that tastes like licorice is Ouzo. Ouzo is a Greek liquor that is flavored with anise, which gives it its distinct licorice taste. I have had the pleasure of trying Ouzo during my travels in Greece, and it is truly a unique and flavorful drink.
Another licorice-flavored alcohol is Sambuca. Sambuca is an Italian liqueur that is also made with anise. It is often enjoyed as a digestif and is commonly served with three coffee beans floating on top, known as the “con la Mosca” (with the fly) style. The combination of the licorice flavor and the sweetness of Sambuca make it a delightful after-dinner drink.
Pastis and Pernod are two other licorice-flavored drinks that originate from France. Pastis is a popular aperitif in France and is typically enjoyed by diluting it with water, which gives it a cloudy appearance. Pernod, on the other hand, is a brand of Pastis that is well-known globally. Both drinks have a strong anise flavor and are often consumed as a refreshing summer drink.
Absinthe is perhaps the most infamous licorice-flavored alcohol. It has a long and controversial history, with its reputation for causing hallucinations and madness. Absinthe is made with various herbs and botanicals, including anise, which gives it a pronounced licorice taste. It is traditionally consumed by pouring cold water over a sugar cube placed on a slotted spoon, which causes the drink to louche, or turn cloudy. I have had the opportunity to try Absinthe in a traditional manner, and while it did not cause any hallucinations, it did have a strong licorice flavor that was quite enjoyable.
There are also other lesser-known licorice-flavored alcohols worth mentioning. Arak is a Middle Eastern spirit that is popular in countries like Lebanon and Syria. It is made by distilling grapes and then flavoring it with anise. Anisette, also known as Anis, is a licorice-flavored liqueur that is popular in Spain and Latin America. It is often enjoyed as a digestif and is commonly used in cocktails as well. Raki is a traditional Turkish spirit that is flavored with anise and is typically consumed as an aperitif. Aguardiente is a licorice-flavored spirit that is popular in several Latin American countries, including Colombia and Mexico. It is often consumed straight or used as a base for cocktails. Xtabentun is a Mexican liqueur that is made from anise and honey, giving it a sweet licorice flavor.
There are several licorice-flavored alcohols available, each with its own unique characteristics and origins. From the Greek Ouzo to the French Pastis, these drinks offer a delightful licorice taste that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for cocktails. Whether you are sipping on an Absinthe louche or enjoying a Sambuca after a meal, these licorice-flavored alcohols provide a distinct and enjoyable drinking experience.