🥃 Distilled anis

Distilled anis is category 29 of Regulation (EU) 2019/787: an anise drink in which at least 20% of the strength comes from spirit distilled together with anise, star anise or fennel seeds. The minimum strength is 35% ABV. All six protected names of ouzo are registered in this category in the EU register.

How it differs from anis. Ordinary anis (category 28) also has the taste of anise, star anise or fennel only, but its spirit may be flavoured by maceration or natural extracts. For distilled anis a share of the spirit must be distilled with the seeds, which gives a fuller and more stable aroma. The general anise-drinks category (25) allows from 15% ABV and other plants.

Protected names. Under Annex III of Regulation (EC) 110/2008, category 29 includes Ouzo (Greece and Cyprus) and five regional Greek ouzos: Mytilini, Plomari, Kalamata, Thrace and Macedonia. For them the regulation allows a wider range of aromatic plants, including mastic, other seeds, herbs or fruit.

How it is made. Ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin is distilled in pot stills together with anise, star anise or fennel seeds. The aromatic distillate is then blended with other spirit and water; the share of spirit distilled with the seeds in the final strength must be at least one fifth. Sugar is not restricted, but the drink stays dry compared with anise liqueurs.

Why this matters to you. A “distilled anis” mark or the name ouzo on the label means the aroma comes mostly from distillation rather than extracts, and the strength is not below 35%. With water or ice this drink turns cloudy because of anethole. WHO reminds that there is no safe amount of alcohol.