Pastis is an aperitif deeply woven into French social and culinary culture. Originally developed as a legal alternative to absinthe in the 1930s, pastis has a high cultural significance in French society and is often associated with the relaxed lifestyle of Provence, where the aperitif is traditionally enjoyed in good company on warm evenings.
The recipe for this traditional pastis originated at another of Burgundy’s historic distilleries, Maison F. Bouhy, founded in 1855 in La Clayette. Bouhy specialized in herbal aperitifs, its signature product being the anise liqueur pastis. Seeking to diversify its expertise, Maison Jacoulot acquired the F. Bouhy distillery and all of its historical recipes in 2007.
The formula for this lush pastis is based on the essential oils of star anise and distilled Mediterranean plants including green anise, fennel, and lemon balm, among others. Maceration happens throughout the year, followed by distillation, blending, and dilution with reverse-osmosis water. A small addition of natural sugar and an infusion of licorice are used to round out the flavor, texture, and aromatic personality.
Tasting Notes
Bright aniseed and earthy licorice. Pleasant, smooth, herbaceous.
Usage Notes
Jacoulot Pastis is best enjoyed in the classical fashion of anise spirits found across the Mediterranean—specifically in the South of France’s Provence—mixed with cold water that turns the golden pastis into a milky concoction, a phenomenon known as “louching” that is a treasured part of the drinking ritual. It is recommended to add 5-6 parts cold water to one part of pastis, lowering the proof to that of an ideal aperitif, while expanding the palate and awakening the full botanical expression. Pastis is also an excellent addition to stews and braises of seafood, being a storied ingredient in Marseille’s famed bouillabaisse.
Region
Burgundy
Village
Romanèche-Thorins
Source
Anise oils and botanicals sourced from Mediterranean southern France
Botanicals
Star Anise, green anise, fennel, lemon balm and others.
Production
Botanicals are macerated, distilled, blended then diluted with reverse osmosis water.
Sweetener
Natural beet sugar
ABV
45%
Pack Size
6x700mL