Arak Touma 50cl

If you want a spirit that announces itself, this Lebanese arak does the job, loud anise, clean herbal edges, and that signature milky bloom when you add water. It’s a classic for a reason, it makes food taste better and conversations last longer.

Arak is all about transformation. Straight up it’s bold and aromatic. Add a splash of water and it turns cloudy (that famous louche), opening up sweeter licorice notes and softer herbs. So you get a drink that changes in the glass, not one that stays flat from first sip to last.

What sets this style apart is the flavour focus. Anise isn’t a background note here, it’s the main character, with a cooling fennel vibe and a lightly peppery, dried-herb snap that plays ridiculously well with salty cheeses, olives, hummus, and anything off the grill.

Tasting notes

• Nose: Fresh crushed anise, fennel fronds, a hint of white pepper, and a clean, almost minty lift.
• Taste: Bold black licorice up front, then sweet aniseed, dried Mediterranean herbs, and a slightly oily texture that carries flavour across your palate.
• Finish: Long and cooling, with lingering anise, gentle spice, and a dry herbal fade that keeps you coming back.

Where it really shines is at the table. Think mezze spreads, kebabs, roasted chicken, fried halloumi, fattoush, even salty nuts. The anise and herb notes cut through fat, match smoke, and make bright lemony dishes pop, which is why arak is basically a food hack in a glass.

It’s also a bartender’s secret weapon when you want an anise punch without going full pastis mode. A small splash can bring a licorice backbone to citrusy cocktails, add depth to a highball, or give a spicy mix a cool, herbal counterpoint.

Fun Fact: The famous cloudiness when you add water isn’t a gimmick, it happens because the anise oils become visible when the alcohol is diluted, so you’re literally watching flavour come out to play.