Arak Fakra
Ancestral Tradition, Lebanon
"The pure essence of Mount Lebanon in a bottle: Arak Fakra is an artisanal triple-distilled spirit, patiently aged in clay jars to achieve incomparable purity and smoothness, historically known as the 'Lion's Milk'."
1. Identity Profile
- Producer: Coteaux du Liban
- Origin: Mount Lebanon (Kfardebian), Lebanon.
- Raw Material: Ancestral Obeidi and Merwah grapes.
- Distillation: Artisanal triple distillation in traditional stills.
- Aging: 18 months of rest in clay amphorae for natural oxygenation.
- Key Ingredient: High-quality, hand-selected anise seeds.
- Content: 375 ml (Ideal presentation for tasting).
2. Tasting Notes
Appearance: Crystalline and brilliant. Upon contact with water, it takes on a perfect milky white opacity (Louche Effect).
Nose: Potent and clean aroma of fresh anise, with subtle mineral notes and herbaceous hints derived from the grape distillate.
Palate: Velvety and round texture. The attack is fresh, followed by a balanced natural anise sweetness and a persistent and refreshing finish.
3. Distillate Character
PURITY / CLARITY ● ● ● ● ●
ANISE INTENSITY ● ● ● ● ○
MOUTHFEEL SMOOTHNESS ● ● ● ● ●
PERSISTENCE ● ● ● ● ○
4. Consumption Ritual
- Traditional Mix: It is recommended to serve 1/3 Arak and 2/3 fresh water.
- Ice Order: Always add water first and ice at the end to prevent oil crystallization.
- Pairing (Mezze): The infallible companion for hummus, tabbouleh, grilled meats, and spiced dishes.
- Digestive: Excellent for finishing a meal thanks to the natural properties of anise.
5. Technical Data
- No Added Sugar: Its sweetness comes exclusively from anise and the quality of the grape alcohol.
- Serving Temperature: Very cold, ideally between 4°C and 6°C after mixing.
- Craftsmanship: Made following 19th-century methods in the heart of Lebanon.