Arak, esteemed as the Oldest distilled spirit, predates other renowned Anise-Flavored liquors such as Turkish Raki, Greek ouzo, and French Pastis. This traditional Middle Eastern spirit holds a unique place in Levantine Culture, crafted using time-honored Distillation Techniques that have been passed down for centuries.

Historically, Arak liquor was not always infused with aniseed; this practice began over 1,200 years ago, with the earliest documentation by Persian scholar Al-Razi in the Levant region. Originally, "arak" was a general term for Distilled alcohol, evolving over time into the Anise-infused Spirit enjoyed today.

The name "Arak" comes from the Arabic word for condensation, referencing the traditional distillation process, where alcohol evaporates from a fermented beverage and then condenses back into liquid form. Interestingly, Batavia arrack from Southeast Asia, though made from sugarcane and rice rather than grapes, shares the same linguistic roots, demonstrating the widespread influence of Arabic distillation methods.

 

The rich history of Arak wine reflects centuries of cultural exchange and craftsmanship. Whether sipped traditionally with water or enjoyed as part of a Mediterranean dining experience, Arak remains a cornerstone of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean beverages, appreciated for its bold flavor and deep-rooted heritage.

 

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