What is anise?
The term "aniseed" refers to beverages and ingredients that have an aroma and flavor similar to that of anise. This definition includes a variety of aniseed plants such as anise, fennel, and star anise, which are commonly used in the making of these spirits. Aniseed beverages such as pastis and raki are often valued for their ability to evoke memories and traditions through their distinct flavor profiles.
Aniseed plants are the origin of this particular taste
Aniseed drinks get their characteristic flavour from different aniseed plants. Some of the most popular include green anise (Pimpinella anisum), star anise (Illicium verum) and fennel (Foeniculum vulgare). These plants are renowned for their essential oils which give the drinks their much-loved aniseed notes. At Maison Noirot, our flavourists carefully select these plants to guarantee the quality and authenticity of our products.
The different anise drinks
Aniseed drinks come in many variations, each offering a unique experience. In France, pastis and absinthe are iconic examples of this category. Pastis, with its sweet and spicy anise notes, is often consumed diluted with water. Absinthe, famous for its green color and drinking rituals, is known for its powerful character and complex nuances. Other aniseed drinks like raki in Turkey or ouzo in Greece demonstrate the cultural importance and diversity of aniseed spirits around the world.
The spirit of the south in a drink
When you think of aniseed drinks, the South of France immediately comes to mind, with its sun-drenched landscapes and friendly lifestyle. Pastis, a true emblem of this region, is inseparable from games of pétanque played under the azure sky. Maison Noirot's pastis stands out with its inspiration straight from the Alps, combining both the warmth of the south and the authenticity of our mountains for a unique drink to be enjoyed under the sun by the sea or at an altitude of 2000 m.
