Henri Bardouin Pastis
Henri Bardouin Pastis is a 45% ABV (90 proof) French aperitif in a 750mL bottle — crafted in Forcalquier, Provence, from more than 65 herbs and spices by Distilleries et Domaines de Provence. Star anise and licorice lead, but layers of wormwood, cardamom, tonka bean, sage, rosemary and mint unfold underneath. Add chilled water and it louches to a milky opal. Order it online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 45% (90 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Botanicals: 65+, individually macerated or distilled — star anise, licorice, mugwort, centaury, cardamom, tonka bean, peppers, sage, rosemary, thyme, fennel (21 ingredients secret)
- Producer: Distilleries et Domaines de Provence, Forcalquier, France — named for the company's founder, launched ~1990
- Style: pastis — high-end, artisanal, unlike industrial anise spirits
Pastis for People Who Want More Than Anise
Most pastis is star anise and licorice wearing a costume. Henri Bardouin is the real thing: each of the 65+ botanicals is slowly infused over three months, blended over a fourth, and the result drinks like a Provençal herb garden — anise up front, then floral spice, bitter roots, dried citrus and a cooling mint-anise finish. It's the bottle that converts pastis skeptics. Explore more liqueurs or browse the Henri Bardouin range at Del Mesa.
Tasting Notes
Nose: pungent licorice and aniseed, faint mint and chamomile; water tones down the anise and amplifies the mint. Palate: balanced, clean, rounded aniseed with lemon-zest freshness, soft black licorice, dried mint leaf, chamomile. Finish: long, pronounced licorice and aniseed, herbal and slightly dry.
How to Enjoy
The traditional serve: one part pastis to five or six parts chilled water — pour the water slowly and watch the louche effect turn it cloudy gold. Add ice after the water. Pair with olives, tapenade, charcuterie or Provençal seafood.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pastis? A French anise-flavored aperitif, traditionally diluted with chilled water — the anise oils cloud the drink in the classic "louche" effect.
What is the ABV? 45% ABV (90 proof).
How many botanicals are in Henri Bardouin? More than 65 herbs and spices, with 21 kept secret by the distillery.
Provence in a glass — order Henri Bardouin Pastis online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.