El Massaya Arak (75cl, 40%)

A triple-distilled Lebanese anise spirit from Massaya in the Bekaa Valley, produced from indigenous Oubeidi grapes. It is distilled in a Charentais copper pot still fired by slow-burning grape wood, then rests for over six months in clay jars. The nose opens with bold anise and licorice, followed by fennel seed, herbal spice, subtle floral lift and quiet sweetness. The palate has anise seeds and licorice, then dried fig and date flavours with gentle sweetness. When diluted with cold water, it gains precision and a refreshing character with traces of eucalyptus, ginger and cumin. The finish is long, with lingering anise, clean herbal echo and a cool mentholated quality.