Pastis is a very popular alcoholic beverage in the South of France. It is synonymous with sun, cicadas and game of boules. It is nicknamed “the little yellow” because of its sunny yellow colour.
It’s a simple drink, but the method to follow is rigorous.
The basic recipe is easy: pastis, ice cubes and water.
However there is a precise order for making the ideal pastis. If you don’t follow it, you’ll be exposed to the mockery and compassion of the people of Provence. Peuchère!
According to tradition, the ice cubes are added after the pastis has been poured into the glass, followed by the water.
It is not necessary to fill the glass with ice cubes: two or three cubes are enough.
The technique of putting the ice cubes before the pastis and before the water is called ‘à la parisienne’ (from Paris). The title says it all: this is the method for beginners.
In fact, this method would dissipate the aromas by freezing the anethol, the molecule that makes the pastis cloudy when water is added.
The ‘old-fashioned’ technique does not use ice cubes. So how do you ensure that your pastis is perfectly chilled?
Well, you put a jug of water in the fridge a few hours before the aperitif.
The amount of water added is also very important and depends on the Pastis lover; some like it with very little water and others with a little more water, almost “drowned”.
We did say ‘almost’, because pastis is an alcohol that dilutes in water, so the amount to be added must be carefully measured to avoid ‘drowning’ the drink.
The right ratio? One part pastis to 5 parts water.
This can lead to long and passionate conversations about the best way to drink it.
Which option should you choose? Pastis is like anything else; everyone has their own preferences and tastes!
All you have to do is try out the different methods and choose the one that suits you best.
Our Pastis Anista, distilled in the land of lavender, puts the emphasis on locally-sourced organic plants. It is smooth and well balanced.
However, there are a few mistakes you should avoid if you want to enjoy pastis the way it should be enjoyed.
Mistake 1: Storing pastis in the fridge
Pastis should never be kept in the fridge, but always at room temperature. If stored properly, i.e. in a dry place away from heat and light, it can be kept for several months. Once opened, always close the bottle tightly and keep it upright.
Mistake 2: Serving pastis warm
Pastis is best served chilled!
Drinking pastis chilled does not mean taking it out of the fridge. Simply add ice cubes.
Mistake 3: ‘Drowning’ pastis
Pastis is a fairly light alcohol that can be diluted with water. To do this properly, the water needs to be cool and in the right proportions!
