Abou Akl Arak 100 Proof 750ML

Abou Akl Arak 100 Proof 750ML is a triple-distilled Lebanese arak made from indigenous Obeidi grapes, bottled at 50% ABV (100 proof) in a 750ml format. Distilled in Lebanon's Mount Lebanon region, this full-strength expression highlights the anise-forward intensity and herbal complexity that define traditional Lebanese arak at its most robust.

Quick Facts: ABV: 50% (100 Proof)  |  Origin: Mount Lebanon, Lebanon  |  Style: Anise Spirit (Arak)  |  Grape: Obeidi

Production & Heritage

Abou Akl produces its arak from Obeidi grapes, an ancient white varietal cultivated on the eastern slopes of Mount Lebanon — a terroir that has sustained Lebanese winemaking and distilling traditions for centuries. The spirit undergoes triple distillation with aniseed, a process that refines the raw grape distillate into a concentrated, aromatic spirit. At 100 proof, this expression sits at the higher end of the arak potency spectrum, delivering undiluted character that responds well to the traditional addition of water and ice, which triggers the iconic milky-white louche effect.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Pronounced aniseed leads immediately, followed by dried herbs and a subtle fruity sweetness reminiscent of the Obeidi grape base. With air, delicate floral and botanical nuances emerge beneath the dominant licorice notes.

Taste: The entry is smooth despite the high proof, with anise coating the palate and quickly giving way to a layered mid-palate of mild sweetness, herbal complexity, and a faint grape-spirit warmth. The 50% ABV provides structure without harshness, allowing each flavor to register distinctly.

Finish: Clean and refreshing, with lingering herbal and aniseed notes that persist without turning bitter. A gentle warmth carries through, tapering into a dry, slightly cooling close.

How to Drink Abou Akl Arak

The traditional Lebanese serve remains the gold standard: pour one part arak, add two parts cold water, then add ice — always in that order — and watch the spirit transform into its signature cloudy white. This dilution opens the aromatics and tempers the proof beautifully. Beyond the classic serve, Abou Akl Arak works in several cocktails. An Arak Mule substitutes arak for vodka, where the anise plays against ginger beer's spice. A Levantine Collins combines arak with lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water for a bright, herbaceous long drink. A Mediterranean Negroni variation swaps gin for arak, pairing its licorice depth with sweet vermouth and Campari in a bold, aromatic twist.

Best For

• Hosting a traditional Lebanese mezze dinner with family or friends
• Introducing someone to authentic Levantine spirits culture
• Exploring anise-based spirits beyond pastis and ouzo
• Building a globally diverse home spirits collection

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Abou Akl Arak taste like? Abou Akl Arak delivers a bold anise flavor supported by mild sweetness, herbal complexity, and a clean, refreshing finish. The Obeidi grape base adds a subtle fruity undertone beneath the dominant licorice character.

How does Abou Akl Arak compare to Gantous & Abou Raad Arak? Both are traditional Lebanese araks made from local grapes and distilled with aniseed, but Abou Akl's 100 proof bottling is notably higher in strength than many standard araks, which typically range from 80 to 106 proof. This higher ABV tends to produce a more concentrated anise intensity and a more dramatic louche when diluted.

Is Abou Akl Arak good for sipping neat? At 50% ABV, it can be sipped neat by those who enjoy full-proof spirits, but arak is traditionally diluted with cold water and ice, which unlocks its aromatic layers and creates the characteristic milky appearance.

Where is Abou Akl Arak made? Abou Akl Arak is produced in Lebanon, using Obeidi grapes grown on the eastern slopes of Mount Lebanon. This region has been a center of Lebanese grape cultivation and arak distillation for generations.

What foods pair well with Abou Akl Arak? Grilled lamb kebabs benefit from arak's anise cutting through the richness. Hummus and baba ghanoush complement the spirit's herbal notes. Fattoush salad mirrors the refreshing quality of diluted arak. Labneh with olive oil and za'atar echoes its herbaceous profile. Briny olives and pickled turnips contrast the spirit's mild sweetness.

What sizes does Abou Akl Arak come in? The standard widely available format is the 750ml bottle at 100 proof.

Is Abou Akl Arak worth the price? Abou Akl Arak positions as a mid-range Lebanese arak that delivers genuine traditional character — triple-distilled from Obeidi grapes at a generous 100 proof. For its category, it represents solid value for those seeking an authentic, full-strength expression.

Why Abou Akl Arak?

What distinguishes this bottling within the broader arak category is the combination of Obeidi grapes — a varietal indigenous to Lebanon — with triple distillation and a full 100 proof presentation. Many araks on the export market are bottled at lower strength, which can mute the interplay between grape spirit and aniseed. Abou Akl preserves that intensity, making it a faithful representation of how arak has been consumed in Lebanon for centuries. For anyone building knowledge of Mediterranean anise spirits or seeking the real thing for a proper mezze table, this expression earns its place.