Pastis Portfolio Vol:1 - Lidanis

One of the most interesting questions that I have ever heard asked at a drinks’ industry question and answer session was: “What is your second favourite drink?”. The question was asked of Mr. Martin Miller, founder of Miller’s Gin, and his answer was, “Probably pastis.”.

I, obviously, drink a lot of gin and I’m also partial to a Horse’s Neck cocktail, but, like Mr Miller, my own second favourite spirit to drink recreationally is probably pastis. I (DBS) am actually known to prefer absinthes that are closer to Pastis in character, which is interesting as pastis or anise was first created as a replacement for absinthe after it had been unfairly banned.

Inspired by the range of Pastis available in France, I gathered an armful of bottles, and decided to set about reviewing some of the big, and not so big, brands of this anise-flavoured beverage.

LIDANIS

The first pastis in the Portfolio will be an unusual choice: LIDANIS. As far as I am aware, this is Lidl’s own-brand of pastis (hence LID-ANIS). Available by the litre, it, like most pastis, is bottled at 45% ABV.

With water
Cool and pleasant, with a good burst of anise. Quite sweet and very two-dimensional, but good, clean, cheap and satisfying. Easy to drink and, after one glass, you are left wanting another. A touch of creaminess on the finish.

With ice
Quite strong, grainy alcohol and a fair bit of burn, then some anise, but not a patch on having it with water; it needs a lot more ice-melt and dilution for it to become more palatable. With further dilution, some bitter anise comes through.

In Conclusion
Whilst this pastis isn’t the best out there, it is still pretty good and, at €8 a bottle, in terms of value for money, it’s hard to beat.