Pastis can be served both traditionally and in cocktails
Pastis, a star in the world of French spirits, is known for its distinct anise flavor and rich history.
As a typical aperitif from the south of France, it is often enjoyed on the rocks on a sunny terrace but can also be used to create exciting and refreshing cocktails.
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s explore what type of pastis is available on the market.
The most famous brands are Pernod and Ricard. Both offer a distinctive, robust aniseed flavor, with Pernod boasting a slightly sweeter profile and Ricard being a bit more herbaceous.
There’s also Henri Bardouin Pastis, which stands out for its complex flavor profile sourced from a secret blend of many herbs and spices. Finally, you will also find Pastis 51 as one of the popular brands in many supermarkets around France.
And now for the cocktails with pastis!
Pastis Spritz
This cocktail is a nice twist on the classic Spritz.
Ingredients:
- 1 part pastis
- 2 parts Prosecco
- Touch of soda water
- Orange slices for decoration
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Pour pastis and prosecco into a glass over ice.
- Add a touch of cold soda water.
- Garnish with orange and enjoy this refreshing and bubbly treat.
Pastis Mauresque
This cocktail is a sweet delight with an almond flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 parts pastis
- 1 part almond syrup
- 4 parts water
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Pour the pastis and almond syrup into a glass over ice and stir well.
- Add cold water.
- Garnish with a cocktail cherry.
Pastis Sex and the CityXee
The perfect cocktail for a girls night. Enjoy the pink color of the grenadine and the raspberry on top.
Ingredients:
- 1 part pastis
- 1 part grenadine syrup
- 3 parts water
- Raspberry or strawberry
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Pour pastis and grenadine syrup into a glass over ice and stir well.
- Add cold water.
- Garnish with your favorite berry.
Pastis Perroquet
A refreshing minty twist on the classic pastis and water.
Ingredients:
- 1 part pastis
- 1 part mint syrup
- 4-5 parts water
- Mint leaves for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Pour the pastis and mint syrup into a glass over ice and stir well.
- Add cold water.
- Garnish with mint leaves.
Pastis Rourou
If you are a fan of tropical flavors, Rourou is just for you.
Ingredients:
- 1 part pastis
- 2 parts pineapple juice
- 1 splash strawberry syrup
- Fresh pineapple for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Pour the pastis and pineapple juice into a glass over ice and stir.
- Carefully add the strawberry syrup and let it settle for a nice look. Then stir.
- Garnish with fresh pineapple.
Pastis – a taste of the French Riviera
These 5 delightful cocktails demonstrate the versatility of the pastis and emphasize that it is not just a liqueur that you sip nicely on hot summer days.
Whether you prefer the traditional brands like Pernod and Ricard or opt for a more complex flavor like Henri Bardouin, there’s a pastis-based cocktail out there for everyone.
Don’t miss:
- The history of pastis and the kinship to absinthe
- Absinthe Bar & Museum in Antibes
- 10 recipes for delicious drinks with pastis
So, embrace the spirit of the French Riviera and add a splash of pastis to your next cocktail!
By Tommy Sverre – updated 2024
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