Holy Land Petra Gold Arak 750ML

Holy Land Petra Gold Arak 750ML is a 100-proof (50% ABV) anise-flavored spirit produced in Jordan, sold in a standard 750ml bottle. At 50% ABV, this arak sits at the higher end of the category's typical strength range, delivering a robust, full-bodied expression of the Levantine tradition.

Quick Facts: ABV: 50% (100 Proof)  |  Origin: Jordan  |  Style: Anise Spirit (Arak)  |  Size: 750ml

Production & Heritage

Arak is the defining spirit of the Levant, with roots stretching back centuries across Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Israel, and Palestine. Traditional arak production involves distilling grape-based wine spirit, then redistilling it with aniseed — the botanical responsible for the spirit's signature licorice-like flavor and the characteristic milky-white "louche" that appears when water is added. The name "Petra" references Jordan's iconic ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs, tying this expression to Jordanian cultural identity. Specific distillery and production details for Holy Land Petra Gold have not been independently published.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Expect prominent anise and licorice on the nose, hallmarks of any traditionally made arak. At 50% ABV, the alcohol carries those aromatics with notable intensity, and a subtle herbal undertone may emerge as the spirit opens up.

Taste: The palate entry is driven by bold aniseed flavor, with a warming alcohol presence that reflects the 100-proof strength. Mid-palate, the anise character expands with a slightly sweet, almost fennel-like quality typical of grape-distillate-based araks. The high proof lends a viscous, weighty mouthfeel that distinguishes it from lighter expressions in the category.

Finish: The finish is long and warming, with lingering licorice and dry herbal notes. The 50% ABV ensures the anise flavor persists well after each sip.

How to Drink Petra Gold Arak

The traditional Levantine serve remains the gold standard: pour one part arak into a small glass, add one to two parts cold water (which triggers the dramatic milky-white louche), then add ice — always in that order, as adding ice first can cause uneven crystallization of the anise oils. Beyond the classic serve, arak's bold anise backbone works in several cocktails. An Arak Sour (arak, lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white) tempers the spirit's intensity with citrus brightness. A Mediterranean Mule (arak, ginger beer, lime) pairs the anise with spicy ginger for a refreshing highball. An Arak Spritz (arak, sparkling water, fresh cucumber, mint) highlights the herbal side of the spirit and makes an excellent warm-weather aperitif.

Best For

• Hosting a traditional meze dinner with family or friends
• Introducing adventurous drinkers to Levantine spirits culture
• Gifting someone with Middle Eastern heritage or culinary interests
• Building a globally diverse home spirits collection

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Petra Gold Arak taste like? It delivers a bold, anise-forward flavor profile with licorice sweetness and herbal undertones, amplified by its 100-proof strength for a warming, full-bodied experience.

How does Petra Gold Arak compare to Elite Arak by Joseph Gold & Sons? Elite Arak is bottled at 40% ABV and marketed as triple-distilled, while Petra Gold comes in at a significantly higher 50% ABV, which yields a more intense anise presence and heavier body. The 10-percentage-point difference in alcohol makes Petra Gold a noticeably bolder pour.

Is Petra Gold Arak good for sipping neat? At 50% ABV, it can be sipped neat by those comfortable with high-proof spirits, but the traditional and most rewarding method is diluting with cold water at a 1:2 ratio, which opens the aromatics and creates arak's signature louche.

Where is Petra Gold Arak made? Petra Gold Arak is produced in Jordan, a country with deep historical ties to arak production throughout the Levant region of the eastern Mediterranean.

What foods pair well with Petra Gold Arak? Arak is the classic companion to meze — hummus and warm pita provide a creamy, neutral canvas for the anise. Grilled lamb kebabs match the spirit's boldness with smoky, savory richness. Fresh tabbouleh and fattoush salads offer herbal brightness that echoes the anise. Salty halloumi cheese creates a satisfying contrast with the licorice sweetness. Briny olives and pickled vegetables cut through the spirit's warmth and refresh the palate between sips.

What sizes does Petra Gold Arak come in? The standard available size is the 750ml bottle.

Is Petra Gold Arak worth the price? Petra Gold positions as a full-strength arak expression in the entry-to-mid-level price tier for anise spirits, and its 100-proof potency means a little goes a long way when diluted traditionally — stretching value per serving compared to lower-proof alternatives.

Why Petra Gold Arak?

The defining feature of this expression is its 50% ABV, which places it above many commercially available araks that typically land between 40% and 47%. That extra proof translates directly into a more concentrated anise character and a richer mouthfeel when diluted with water in the traditional style. For anyone building familiarity with Levantine spirits or seeking an authentic arak to anchor a meze spread, Petra Gold delivers the intensity and cultural authenticity that lighter bottlings often lack. Its Jordanian origin connects it to one of the oldest arak-producing traditions in the region.