Arak El Rif Green Special Reserve
Arak El Rif Green Special Reserve is a 750mL Lebanese arak bottled at 53% ABV (106 proof) — the green-label reserve of a family that has distilled arak since 1828. It is triple-distilled from white grapes and green anise seed to a closely guarded fifth-generation formula. Order it online at Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 53% (106 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Style: Arak — grape spirit distilled with green anise seed
- Distillation: Triple-distilled
- Producer: El Rif, Lebanon — family distilling since 1828
- Tier: Special Reserve (green label)
Distilling Since 1828
El Rif traces its distilling to 1828, which puts the house among the oldest arak producers in Lebanon. The recipe in use today is credited to the family's fifth generation and remains a secret — what is published is the framework: the finest grapes and anise seeds, triple distillation, and no shortcuts on strength. The Green Special Reserve is the range's classic reserve bottling, the one Lebanese drinkers have reached for across two centuries of mezze tables. Browse the house on the Arak El Rif vendor page.
Tasting Notes
Concentrated anise and licorice on the nose over a clean grape-spirit base. Bold and warming on the palate, with deep licorice sweetness, an oily texture and a dry grape backbone; diluted, it broadens into dried herb and a faint bitter-citrus edge. The finish is long and warming, with persistent licorice.
How to Enjoy
One part arak to two parts cold water, then ice — the louche is the quality test, and this one blooms thick and white. Keep the glass topped through a long mezze lunch or a grilled-meat dinner. Its red-label sibling sits at the very top of the range; compare both in our liqueurs collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between El Rif Green and Red?
The Green Special Reserve is the house's classic reserve at 53% ABV. The Red Premium Reserve is a separate, much stronger bottling at 70% ABV — the top of the El Rif range.
How old is the El Rif distillery?
The family has produced arak in Lebanon since 1828, and the current formula is credited to its fifth generation of distillers.
Is El Rif sweetened?
No — it is a dry arak: grape spirit and anise, with no added sugar. The sweetness you taste comes from the anise itself.
Two centuries of Lebanese distilling in one green label — order Arak El Rif Green Special Reserve online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.