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Anisette Drink recipe

Cocktail glass

Indulge in a creamy and irresistible Anisette drink recipe, perfect for those who love the unique taste of anise liqueur. Made with Joadja Anise Liqueur, Gin Aviation, cream, egg white, and ice, this cocktail is a must-try for any beginner bartender. Shake it up using a shaker with a strainer and enjoy a deliciously smooth drink that's sure to impress!


Anisette Ingredients

Anisette Equipment

  • shaker with strainer - get rid of large pieces of ingredients (ex: fruit parts, seeds)

Anisette Recipe

  1. fill a shaker halfway with ice cubes to cool the ingredients properly
  2. shake till perfectly chilled
  3. prepare glass

The Popularity of Anisette: A Classic Liqueur with a Modern Twist

As a professional bartender, I have seen the rise and fall of many cocktails. However, one drink that has remained a classic favorite is Anisette. This sweet, anise-flavored liqueur has been famous for centuries, and it is still a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts worldwide. In this article, we will explore the history, origins, and popularity of Anisette, along with its ingredient roles, variations, and common mistakes when making it.

The History and Origins of Anisette

Anisette is a French liqueur that has been around since the 19th century. It is made from anise seed, which gives it a distinct licorice flavor. The process of making Anisette involves distilling the anise seed with alcohol, sugar, and other flavorings such as fennel, coriander, or star anise. The result is a clear, sweet liqueur that is enjoyed in many cocktails and as an aperitif.

Anisette is famous for its unique flavor and its association with famous artists such as Vincent Van Gogh. In the late 19th century, Van Gogh was known to drink Anisette while he painted his masterpieces. This association with artistic expression has made Anisette a popular drink among creative people.

Anisette's Famous Appearance

Anisette has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other liqueurs. It is clear and has a slight yellow tinge to it. When poured into a glass, it forms a layer of tiny bubbles that rise to the surface. This appearance makes it an attractive ingredient in cocktails and adds a touch of elegance to any bar.

Ingredient Roles in Anisette Cocktails

The key ingredient in Anisette cocktails is, of course, Anisette. However, other ingredients play a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. Let's take a look at some of the most common ingredients found in Anisette cocktails:

  • Gin: Gin is often combined with Anisette to create a classic cocktail called the Anisette Martini. Gin adds a subtle botanical flavor to the drink that complements the licorice taste of Anisette.
  • Cream: Cream is a common ingredient in Anisette cocktails that adds a creamy texture to the drink. It is often used in cocktails such as the Anisette Alexander or the Anisette White Russian.
  • Egg White: Egg whites are used in Anisette cocktails to create a frothy, light texture. When combined with Anisette, it adds a rich, velvety mouthfeel to the drink.

How to Garnish Anisette Cocktails

Garnishing Anisette cocktails is a fun and creative way to enhance their appearance and flavor. Here are some of the most common garnishes used in Anisette cocktails:

  • Lemon or Lime: A slice of lemon or lime adds a zesty, acidic twist to Anisette cocktails and complements the sweet licorice flavor.
  • Mint: Fresh mint leaves add a refreshing aroma and flavor to Anisette cocktails. They are often used in cocktails such as the Anisette Mojito or the Anisette Julep.
  • Anise Star: An anise star is a traditional garnish for Anisette cocktails. It adds a subtle anise flavor and gives the drink an elegant look.

Variations of Anisette Cocktails

Anisette cocktails can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary requirements. Here are some variations of Anisette cocktails that you can try:

  • Virgin/Mocktail Version: To make a non-alcoholic Anisette cocktail, simply omit the alcohol and replace it with a non-alcoholic substitute such as Seedlip or Lyre's.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Anisette is naturally gluten-free, so all you need to do is ensure that the other ingredients you use are also gluten-free. Brands such as Tito's Vodka and Cointreau are gluten-free and can be used in Anisette cocktails.
  • Vegan Version: Anisette is vegan-friendly as it is made from plant-based ingredients. However, some cocktails may contain non-vegan ingredients such as cream or egg white. To make a vegan Anisette cocktail, use a vegan cream substitute such as coconut cream or aquafaba instead of egg white.
  • Keto Version: Anisette is low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable ingredient for a keto-friendly cocktail. To make a keto-friendly Anisette cocktail, use sugar substitutes such as stevia or erythritol instead of sugar.
  • Low-Calorie Version: Anisette is relatively low in calories compared to other liqueurs, making it a great option for those watching their calorie intake. To make a low-calorie Anisette cocktail, use low-calorie mixers such as soda water or diet tonic water.

Common Mistakes When Making Anisette Cocktails

As with any cocktail, there are some common mistakes that bartenders and home mixologists make when making Anisette cocktails. Here are some of the most common mistakes:

  • Using too much Anisette: Anisette has a strong, sweet flavor, and using too much can overpower the other ingredients in the cocktail. Use the recommended amount in the recipe and adjust to taste.
  • Not shaking the cocktail enough: Anisette cocktails that contain cream or egg white need to be shaken vigorously to create a frothy texture. Be sure to shake the cocktail for at least 30 seconds.
  • Using the wrong type of glass: Anisette cocktails are best served in a chilled martini glass or a rocks glass with ice. Using the wrong type of glass can affect the presentation and flavor of the cocktail.
  • Not garnishing the cocktail: Garnishing Anisette cocktails adds an extra layer of flavor and presentation. Don't skip this step!

In conclusion, Anisette is a classic liqueur that has stood the test of time. Its unique flavor, appearance, and associations with famous artists have made it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts worldwide. Anisette cocktails can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary requirements, making them a versatile option for any occasion. By avoiding common mistakes and following the tips in this article, you can create perfect Anisette cocktails every time.

If you are going to order Anisette in a bar, don’t forget to mention all the ingredients to the bartender. Anisette can be served with different ingredients in different places.