Pastis is an anise-based liqueur originating from France. It is made from a secret blend of about 50 herbs and spices, including star anise, and has an alcohol by volume of 40%.
How it is made
Pastis is produced using approximately 50 plants and spices, with anise being the primary ingredient. The exact recipe remains a secret, known only to the manufacturer, but includes ingredients like coriander, parsley, veronica, chamomile, spinach, and licorice.
History
In the 19th century, pastis was sold in pharmacies as a medicine for intestinal worms. Its emergence was facilitated by the prohibition of absinthe, as producers sought alternatives. In 1915, Pernod modified their recipe, replacing wormwood with anise to create pastis. Initially limited to 30% alcohol, it was later increased to 40% in 1922 and 45% in 1938.
How it is served
Pastis is typically served as an aperitif, diluted with water in a ratio of 5-8 parts water to 1 part pastis. It is also used in cocktails such as The 2070 Swizzle, Katie's Flower Shop, Doctor Funk (Don the Beachcomber), and Pearl of Puebla.
Adapted from the Russian Wikipedia article Пастис, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.