Pastis

Pastis is the generic term for very strong absinthe-like spirits produced in France.

Often referred to as The National Drink of Provence or The Milk of Provence.

Developed in Marseille in the Provence region of Southern France as a substitute for absinthe.

Absinthe was banned by the French government in 1915 due to its content of the bitter herb wormwood.

Pastis does not contain wormwood.

It's based on anise or star anise (badian) and liquorice as the principal ingredients.

Each distillery has its own secret recipes and variations, and some brands contain more than seventy different herbs and spices.

Well known brands are Pastis 51, Pernod, Ricard, and Pastis Bleu.

Pastis is usually mixed with water and served as an aperitif. Like absinthe, pastis becomes milky white and cloudy when water is added to it - also known as the louche.

Although acknowledged as the traditional aperitif of Provence, pastis is one of the most popular aperitifs throughout France - and a highly integral part of French culture.

Pastis is also used in cocktails and in dishes with fish, shellfish, pork and chicken.