 |
| Ricard makes the classic Pastis de Marseille |
Want to get your French Vibe on? Sure, you could order another Aperol Spritz... But if you want an aperitif that the true locals are drinking, Try ordering some Pastis!
If you’ve been to The South of France during the summer months, you’ve undoubtedly seen locals sitting around cafes & pools sipping on a cloudy pale yellow cocktail... Beloved by many, Pastis has basically become the unofficial drink of summer in France, and most particularly amongst regions in The South of France. So what exactly is it, what does it taste like, and how in the world does it change from caramel brown to pale yellow? We’ve rounded up everything you need to know about this signature French spirit, here.
What Is Pastis?
Pastis is an upscale, booze-heavy, anise-flavored spirit and aperitif most commonly produced in The South of France. The spirit generally clocks in at around 40-45% ABV and boasts less than 100 grams per liter of sugar. The name pastis comes from the Occitan word for mash-up.
Where Is Pastis Made? Pastis was first commercially sold in 1932 by Paul Ricard, exactly 17 years after absinthe was banned. Although distilled across a handful of regions now, the spirit is most commonly enjoyed in Marseille, the Var, the Luberon, the Vaucluse and other areas in Provence / and The South of France.
 |
| Pernod has always been our fav! |
What Is the History of Pastis? Pastis was originally created during the early 1930s as a result of the banning of absinthe. At the time, the French were crazy for anise-flavored spirits, and upon the banning of absinthe, Ricard created and commercially sold pastis as a similar alternative.
What Does Pastis Taste Like? Pastis is often compared to absinthe, though the two aren’t really that similar. Pastis is more licorice and anise-flavored. If you’ve had Arak, Ouzo, or Raki before, these are similar spirits.
How Is Pastis Best Enjoyed? Although best enjoyed on its own or with a splash of water, a handful of pastis-based cocktails exist. The most popular creations include the Rourou (made with strawberry syrup), Tomate (made with grenadine), and Perroquet (mixed with green mint syrup). When the latter two mixers are used (grenadine and mint syrup), the cocktail is called a Feuille Morte (‘dead leaf’ in English). Pastis is often substituted for other popular cocktails that call for absinthe, most notably the Sazerac.
When Is Pastis Best Enjoyed? Pastis is enjoyed year round by a variety of drinkers, though the drink is commonly consumed as an aperitif during French apéro hour. However, on the weekends, pastis is often enjoyed all day long while playing relaxing games of pétanque beneath the sun – though fair warning, this stuff packs a serious punch (and might sneak up on you if you don’t pay attention!)
 |
| you're gonna love the pool at the Villa! And a little Pastis in your Champagne makes one heck of a summer cooler! |
You'll find these world famous liquors at your local Wine & Spirits shop right here in the USA... Our personal favorite is Pernod! Just pour a little in a glass and add ice cold water to dilute it to your preference... We tend to sip on this once the weather warms a little... It makes a great Summer Cooler! We'll make sure we have this on hand for you to sip at the pool bar at Château du Soleil this summer!
For those of you who are champion drinkers you might like to try Ernest Hemingway's favorite cocktail when he lived here in The South of France; Pastis & Champagne, aptly named Death in the Afternoon! We'll have this at the pool bar as well for those of you who dare!
check out this amazing remake of a classic by musicians from around the world...
Doctor, my eyes have seen the years,
And the slow parade of fears...
