Arak Haddad Elite
Arak Haddad Elite is the flagship expression from Eagle Distilleries of Amman, Jordan — a premium arak quadruple distilled from grape spirit with fine aniseed and then rested in wooden barrels for added maturity, bottled at 50% ABV (100 proof). Full-bodied yet smooth, it's arak built for both traditional fellowship and modern sipping. You can order it online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 50% (100 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Base: grape spirit redistilled with premium aniseed
- Process: quadruple distilled; aged in special wooden barrels (also sold as Arak Haddad "Zahra")
- Origin: Amman, Jordan — Eagle Distilleries Company
The Lion of Levantine Arak
Haddad's Elite expression takes the brand's triple-distilled arak and runs it through a fourth distillation to capture what the distillery calls the most complex part of the anise character — then barrels it in wood, an unusual step for arak that rounds the spirit and deepens its texture. The result keeps arak's signature intensity while pouring silkier and more composed than most. The label "Zahra" (Elite) is the same bottling. Compare with other anise spirits in the liqueurs aisle, browse Haddad Elite, or explore more Ancho Reyes for another tradition-driven bottle with bartender credibility.
Tasting Notes
Enticing aromas of fresh anise, vineyard herbs and a faint whisper of oak. The palate is silky and warm — honeyed sweetness giving way to a dry, licorice-tinged finish. Full-bodied with a very rich character, yet smooth for drinking.
How to Enjoy
The traditional serve: one part arak to two parts cold water, then ice — the spirit louches into its signature cloudy white. It pairs beautifully with mezze, grilled lamb and citrusy fish; a bottle of ice water alongside is customary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is arak?
Arak is a traditional Levantine anise-flavored spirit distilled from grapes and flavored with aniseed — the national drink of Jordan and Lebanon.
Why does arak turn white with water?
The anise oils are soluble in alcohol but not water; diluting drops the ABV and the oils emulsify into the milky "louche."
What does Arak Haddad Elite taste like?
Fresh anise, licorice, warm herbs and a smooth barrel-kissed finish — richer and smoother than standard Haddad bottlings.
Experience one of the great anise spirits of the Levant — Arak Haddad Elite ships from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.