Haddad Caves Al Rawabi Arak
50% ABV (100 proof) | 750mL | Anise spirit, traditional Levantine style — Haddad Caves Al Rawabi Arak is a traditional anise-flavored spirit in the Levantine style, distilled by Haddad Caves in Jordan — arak is the classic spirit of the Eastern Mediterranean table, made by distilling a base spirit with aniseed. Served diluted with water or ice, it turns milky white — the famous louche — and releases its full anise fragrance. Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.
Al Rawabi is positioned as an everyday, food-friendly arak: bright anise on the nose, clean and sweet-spicy on the palate, cooling and refreshing when diluted the traditional way. It belongs to the great family of Mediterranean anise spirits — alongside ouzo, pastis, and raki — but with its own Jordanian identity. Pair it with mezze: hummus, olives, grilled meats. For the adventurous drinker, it is one of the most distinctive anise spirits on our shelves.
Tasting notes
Nose: bright aniseed, clean and sweet-spicy. Palate: cooling, refreshing anise when diluted; turns milky white (louche). Finish: sweet-spicy, clean. (Traditional serving.)
Why buy it from Del Mesa Liquor
- 50% ABV (100 proof) — traditional strength
- Haddad Caves, Jordan — Levantine-style anise spirit
- The louche: dilutes milky white, releasing anise fragrance
- Classic with mezze — hummus, olives, grilled meats
- Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor
How to serve it
The traditional way: one part arak to two parts chilled water over ice — watch it louche. Never serve it neat and warm.
Frequently asked questions
What is arak?
A traditional anise-flavored spirit of the Levant, distilled with aniseed; it turns milky white when water is added (the louche).
Is it collectible?
No — it's an everyday, food-friendly arak at an approachable price point.
How do you drink it?
Diluted with chilled water or ice, traditionally 1:2 with food — especially mezze.
Is arak like ouzo or raki?
Same family of Mediterranean anise spirits, but each has its own base spirit and character — arak is the Levantine expression.
Why does it turn white?
Anise oils dissolve in alcohol but not water — adding water forces them out of solution, clouding the drink.