Ricard Pastis de Marseille (40%)

Ricard Pastis de Marseille is a French anise-flavoured aperitif, bottled at 40% ABV. Paul Ricard created it in Marseille in 1932. It is made by infusing a neutral spirit with star anise, licorice root and other botanicals, then filtering and lightly sweetening it. Adding chilled water turns it the cloudy, milky colour typical of pastis. The nose is star anise and licorice with fresh fennel and a little citrus zest. The palate opens with anise sweetness and gentle herbal spice, becoming creamy with water and adding mint and citrus peel. The finish is clean and lingering, with herbal spice and licorice warmth.