A glass of French Pastis liqueur turning cloudy after adding water

What is Pastis? The Complete Guide

6 min read
  1. So, What is Pastis?
  2. The History and Origins of Pastis
  3. How is Pastis Made?
  4. How to Drink Pastis: The Traditional Way
  5. Popular Pastis Brands and Varieties
  6. Pastis vs. Other Anise Spirits

So, What is Pastis?

Pastis is an anise-flavored spirit and aperitif from France, typically clocking in at 40-45% alcohol . It is traditionally made by macerating star anise, licorice root, and various herbs. The name itself comes from the Provençal word pastisson, meaning ‘mixture’.

But the real magic happens when you add water. The clear, golden liquid instantly transforms into a cloudy, milky white. This transformation has a name: the louche effect, also known as the Ouzo effect for other mixtures.

Key Characteristics of Pastis:

The Official Rules: What Makes a Pastis a “Pastis”?

If we want to be more technical, “Pastis” isn’t just a generic name; it’s a legally protected designation with specific rules defined by the European Union.

There are two official categories:

Pastis:

Pastis de Marseille:

The Pastis de Marseille designation therefore guarantees a more intense, traditional expression of the spirit.

Find the full technical details in the official EU Regulation 2019/787

The History and Origins of Pastis

Pastis has deep roots in French culture, dating back to the early 20th century, though its story begins much earlier with absinthe. When absinthe was banned in France in 1915 due to health concerns, distillers needed an alternative to satisfy the French appetite for anise-flavored spirits.

Poster made by Pernod to promote its absinthe, around 1900.

Poster made by Pernod to promote its absinthe, around 1900.

Timeline of Pastis:

The most famous Pastis brand, Ricard, was created by Paul Ricard in 1932 in Marseille. His recipe became so popular that “Ricard” is often used interchangeably with “Pastis” in France, similar to how “Aspirin” represents painkillers in the US.

How is Pastis Made?

The production of pastis involves a careful distillation and blending process that creates its distinctive flavor profile:

Main Ingredients:

  1. Star Anise and/or Green Anise: The primary flavoring agent
  2. Licorice root: Adds sweetness and depth
  3. Fennel: Contributes to the complex anise flavor
  4. Neutral alcohol: The base spirit
  5. Sugar, sometimes Cinnamon: For sweetness and body
  6. Additional herbs: May include coriander, cardamom, sage, and other herbs from the Provence area

Star Anis, Pastis' main ingredient. It is native to South China and Vietnam.

Star Anis, Pastis’ main ingredient. It is native to South China and Vietnam.

Production Process:

  1. Maceration and/or Distillation: Herbs and spices are soaked in neutral alcohol and go through distillation to concentrate the flavors
  2. Sweetening: Sugar is added to achieve the desired taste profile
  3. Aging: Most producers age their pastis for several months to marry the flavors
  4. Bottling: The final product is bottled

Soon we will share with you our best homemade Pastis recipes!

How to Drink Pastis: The Traditional Way

The small and wide glass shape is usually found in cafes.

The small and wide glass shape is usually found in cafes.

Pastis has a specific ritual associated with its consumption that’s deeply embedded in French culture:

  1. Pour pastis: Add 1-2 parts pastis to a glass
  2. Add ice: Place ice cubes in the glass
  3. Add water: Slowly pour 3-5 parts cold water, depending on how strong you want it to be
  4. Watch the transformation: Enjoy the cloudy metamorphosis
  5. Sip slowly: Savor the drink, in moderation!

In France, Pastis is traditionally consumed as an aperitif before meals, particularly during the late afternoon or early evening. In practise though, it’s almost always time for “Apéro”!

Major Commercial Brands:

Artisanal and Premium Options:

But there are many more regional, unique and even international brands out there that all deserve our attention. Feel free to check our Distillery Map to find the best distillery near your home!

Pastis vs. Other Anise Spirits

While pastis shares similarities with other anise-flavored spirits, each has distinct characteristics:

Pastis vs. Ouzo (Greek):

Pastis vs. Sambuca (Italian):

Pastis vs. Absinthe:

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