{"title":"Askalon","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"askalon-100pf-arak-750ml","title":"Askalon 100 Proof Arak 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAskalon 100 Proof Arak 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is an Israeli anise spirit distilled from Obeidi grapes and bottled at 50% ABV (100 proof) in a 750ml format. Produced by Barkan Wine Cellars, this full-strength arak stands apart through its use of Lebanese-origin Obeidi grapes — a traditional variety prized in Middle Eastern arak production — rather than the local Israeli grape stock more commonly found in competing brands.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 50% (100 Proof)  |  Origin: Israel  |  Style: Anise-Flavored Grape Spirit  |  Distillery: Barkan Wine Cellars\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBarkan Wine Cellars, one of Israel's largest and most established wine and spirits producers, crafts Askalon Arak using Obeidi grapes grown on the eastern slopes of Mount Lebanon. Obeidi is the same white grape varietal historically favored in traditional Lebanese arak distillation, lending a distinctive character to the spirit. The grapes are fermented, distilled, and then redistilled with anise seed to achieve the signature licorice-forward profile; only carefully selected ingredients are used to achieve what the distillery describes as a balanced harmony between alcohol and anise. The 100 proof bottling delivers arak at its most assertive strength, a notable step up from the standard 80 proof expressions common in the category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with pronounced anise and a subtle herbaceous undercurrent. It registers as complex without being overwhelming, with faint grape-skin sweetness beneath the dominant licorice aromatics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the palate, the entry is bold and warming at 100 proof, immediately delivering concentrated anise alongside a surprisingly smoky character. The mid-palate fills out with spice and herbal depth, balanced by a full-bodied weight that prevents the spirit from feeling sharp despite its strength. Fruit and botanical notes interweave as the flavors develop.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is lingering and dry, with persistent anise and a faint smokiness that slowly fades. A gentle warmth stays on the palate, typical of higher-proof arak.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Askalon Arak\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe traditional serve is to dilute roughly one part arak with two parts cold water, which triggers the iconic louche — the spirit turns milky white as anise oils emulsify. Ice can be added after dilution. At 100 proof, this expression holds its flavor structure even with generous water, making it ideal for the classic Middle Eastern ritual of sipping alongside small dishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eArak Spritz:\u003c\/strong\u003e Combine with sparkling water and a squeeze of fresh lemon for a refreshing, lower-ABV aperitif that highlights the anise backbone.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLion's Milk (Aslan Sütü):\u003c\/strong\u003e The traditional long drink of arak, water, and ice; at 100 proof, the spirit maintains robust anise flavor even when heavily diluted.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAnise Old Fashioned:\u003c\/strong\u003e Substitute arak for whiskey with a demerara sugar cube and orange bitters — the grape distillate base and anise create a distinctly Mediterranean riff on the classic.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting a traditional Middle Eastern meze dinner with friends\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting someone exploring spirits beyond the Western canon\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdding an anise-forward option to a well-stocked home bar\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCocktail experimentation for bartenders seeking a higher-proof arak\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Askalon Arak taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Askalon 100 Proof Arak delivers bold, concentrated anise with an unexpectedly smoky quality, supported by herbal and spice notes and a full-bodied texture. The grape-distillate base adds subtle fruit complexity beneath the dominant licorice character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Askalon Arak compare to Elite Arak?\u003c\/strong\u003e Elite Arak is Israel's most widely consumed arak brand and is generally bottled at lower proof, making it lighter on the palate. Askalon's 100 proof bottling and its use of Obeidi grapes from Lebanon's eastern mountain slopes give it a bolder, more traditional profile with greater depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Askalon Arak good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e It can be sipped neat, but at 50% ABV it is quite intense; the traditional and recommended approach is to dilute with cold water, which unlocks the full aromatic complexity and tames the alcohol heat.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Askalon Arak made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Askalon Arak is produced in Israel by Barkan Wine Cellars, though the Obeidi grapes used in its production are sourced from vineyards on the eastern slopes of Mount Lebanon.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Askalon Arak?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled lamb kebabs pair naturally, as the anise complements charred meat. Hummus and fresh pita provide a creamy counterpoint to the spirit's intensity. Briny feta cheese and olives echo the Mediterranean origin. Fresh watermelon offers a classic regional pairing, its sweetness balancing the dry anise. Fried cauliflower with tahini mirrors the nutty, earthy tones in the spirit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Askalon Arak come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard widely available format is the 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Askalon Arak worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Askalon 100 Proof positions as a mid-range arak that delivers above-average intensity and character for its price tier, particularly given its use of traditional Obeidi grapes and full 100 proof bottling strength — features not always found in similarly priced competitors.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Askalon Arak?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat distinguishes this expression within the broader arak category is the combination of Obeidi grapes — historically the gold-standard varietal for arak production in the Levant — with a full 100 proof bottling strength. Many Israeli araks rely on local grape varieties and bottle at 80 proof, producing a lighter, more approachable spirit. Askalon pushes in the opposite direction, delivering a denser, more aromatic arak that holds its anise character even under heavy dilution. For anyone seeking an arak that stays true to the traditional high-proof, grape-forward style while remaining accessible through a well-known Israeli producer, this bottling makes a strong case for itself.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Askalon","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44836678500521,"sku":"22554","price":24.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/askalon_arack_100__88953.jpg?v=1730466250"},{"product_id":"askalon-80-proof-arak-750ml","title":"Askalon 80 Proof Arak 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAskalon 80 Proof Arak 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a traditional Israeli anise spirit bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof) in a 750ml format. Produced by Carmei ZVI–Segal Bros Ltd. and certified Kosher for Passover, it stands among the most recognized arak labels available outside the Middle East.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 40%  |  Origin: Israel  |  Style: Anise Spirit (NAS, Unaged)  |  Producer: Carmei ZVI – Segal Bros Ltd.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArak is the ancestral anise spirit of the Eastern Mediterranean, predating both Greek ouzo and Turkish rakı in its regional lineage. Askalon is produced by Carmei ZVI–Segal Bros Ltd. in Israel, where arak remains deeply embedded in communal dining culture. The spirit is distilled with anise seed, left unaged, and bottled clear — designed to louche (turn milky white) when diluted with cold water, a hallmark of authentic arak service. Its Kosher for Passover certification requires strict ingredient and process oversight, distinguishing it from many competing brands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pronounced anise seed leads immediately, followed by a cool, herbaceous quality. There is a clean, slightly sweet undertone beneath the dominant licorice character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The palate opens with bold black licorice flavor that coats the tongue evenly. At mid-palate the anise sweetness intensifies, balanced by a subtle mineral dryness. The overall impression is delicate yet assertive — a spirit built around a single, well-defined flavor axis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium in length with lingering anise warmth and a cooling, almost mentholated sensation. The aftertaste stays clean without bitterness or harshness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Askalon Arak\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe traditional serve is the most rewarding: pour one part arak, then add two parts ice-cold water and watch it louche into an opaque white. Add ice after dilution, never before, to prevent crystallization on the surface. A \u003cstrong\u003eLimonana Arak\u003c\/strong\u003e — arak with fresh lemon juice, mint, and simple syrup — is a natural Middle Eastern cocktail pairing that amplifies the herbal profile. An \u003cstrong\u003eArak Sour\u003c\/strong\u003e, built like a classic sour with egg white, lets the anise carry through citrus and foam. For a refreshing long drink, an \u003cstrong\u003eArak Spritz\u003c\/strong\u003e with soda water, a squeeze of grapefruit, and fresh herbs keeps the spirit light and sessionable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting a Middle Eastern or Mediterranean-themed dinner party\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing friends to the anise spirit family beyond ouzo and pastis\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePassover celebrations requiring certified Kosher spirits\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding an inclusive home bar with spirits from diverse traditions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Askalon Arak taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Askalon Arak delivers a bold, unmistakable black licorice flavor driven by anise seed, with a delicate sweetness and a clean, cooling finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Askalon Arak compare to Greek ouzo?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are anise-based spirits that louche when diluted, but arak is traditionally unsweetened and distilled with grape spirit, whereas many ouzos include added sugar and may use a grain or molasses base. Askalon tends toward a drier, more direct anise profile compared to the slightly sweeter, rounder character of most ouzo bottlings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Askalon Arak good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e It can be sipped neat, but arak is traditionally enjoyed diluted with cold water at roughly a 1:2 ratio, which opens up the aromatics and softens the alcohol considerably.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Askalon Arak made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Askalon Arak is produced in Israel by Carmei ZVI–Segal Bros Ltd., a producer specializing in traditional Israeli spirits and wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Askalon Arak?\u003c\/strong\u003e Mezze platters with hummus and baba ghanoush complement arak's anise cleanly. Grilled lamb kebabs benefit from the spirit's palate-cleansing quality. Fresh salads with herbs like mint and parsley echo its herbal backbone. Salty cheeses such as feta or halloumi contrast its subtle sweetness. Fried kibbeh or falafel pair well because the anise cuts through rich, oily textures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Askalon Arak come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard and most widely available format is the 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Askalon Arak worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Askalon positions as an accessible, entry-level arak — priced competitively within the anise spirit category and offering authentic Israeli arak character without the premium markup of small-batch or aged expressions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Askalon Arak?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAskalon's primary distinction is its Kosher for Passover certification, a meaningful differentiator for observant consumers who need a verified option during the holiday and year-round. Beyond certification, it delivers what arak should: a clean, anise-forward spirit built for communal drinking alongside food. In a market where many anise spirits are flavored or sweetened after distillation, Askalon remains a straightforward, traditionally produced Israeli arak. For anyone exploring the broader family of anise spirits — ouzo, pastis, sambuca, rakı — it provides an essential point of reference from the spirit's historic heartland.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Askalon","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44836833001641,"sku":"14431","price":22.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/askalon_80_arak__45553.jpg?v=1730472217"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/askalon.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}