Arak El Rif Red Premium Reserve
Arak El Rif Red Premium Reserve is a 750mL Lebanese arak bottled at a remarkable 70% ABV (140 proof) — the strongest and rarest tier of the El Rif range, from a family distilling since 1828. Triple-distilled from grapes and anise, it is built to be diluted at the table, where its intensity opens into exceptional aromatic depth. Order it online at Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 70% (140 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Style: Arak — grape spirit distilled with anise
- Distillation: Triple-distilled
- Producer: El Rif, Lebanon — family distilling since 1828
- Tier: Premium Reserve (red label) — the top of the El Rif range
The Top of the El Rif Range
El Rif has made arak in Lebanon since 1828, and the Red Premium Reserve is where the house puts its fullest expression: the same grape-and-anise foundation as the green-label Special Reserve, carried to 140 proof. That strength is not a stunt — arak is always diluted before drinking, and a higher-proof base means the anise oils arrive in greater concentration, so the louche forms denser and the flavour holds through more water. It is the bottle Lebanese arak drinkers treat as the connoisseur's pour. Browse the house on the Arak El Rif vendor page.
Tasting Notes
A commanding anise aroma, powerful and fresh. The palate — once diluted — is velvety and warm, with concentrated licorice layered over grape depth and dried herbs, and the finish is exceptionally long: warming, clean, and tapering through spice and herb notes.
How to Enjoy
Dilution is mandatory at this strength, and it is also the pleasure of it: start with one part arak to two or three parts cold water, add ice after the water, and adjust to your palate. Serve it slowly with a full mezze spread, seafood or grilled meats. The green-label Special Reserve pours at a gentler 53%; both are in our liqueurs collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is El Rif Red 70% alcohol?
It is bottled as a high-strength reserve: arak is traditionally diluted with water before drinking, and the extra proof carries a denser concentration of anise oils, giving a thicker louche and deeper flavour after dilution.
Can El Rif Red be drunk neat?
It is not intended to be. At 140 proof it should be diluted with cold water (and then ice) — that is how arak is served and how its aromatics open.
How does the Red differ from the Green?
Both are triple-distilled El Rif araks from the same house; the Green Special Reserve is 53% ABV, the Red Premium Reserve is the top tier at 70% ABV.
The strongest pour in the El Rif house — order Arak El Rif Red Premium Reserve online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.