L'Arack de Musar

This Lebanese arak comes from Château Musar, the Bekaa Valley estate founded in 1930 and best known for its legendary wines. Arak is the anise spirit of Lebanon and the classic partner to a mezze table, and Musar’s version is one of the most refined.

It starts with grape spirit averaging about five years old. Anise seeds go in during the final distillation, and the spirit then rests in terracotta amphorae, which add to its rich licorice aroma. Bottled at 53% ABV, it’s pure and aromatic, with a silky, gently sweet texture and a firm anise backbone.

Serve it the traditional way: one part arak to two parts cold water, poured over ice, which turns it a cloudy white. It’s perfect with mezze, grilled meats, and seafood.