Uploaded August 2021 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
In this video, CP reviews Ricard Pastis. Learn about this French apéritif as we explore it in detail.
Discover The Liquor Formula & Read The Review:
bespokeunit.com/articles/spirits/ricard-pastis
Learn about the Bespoke Unit Liquor Formula:
bespokeunit.com/spirits/formula
Read all about Pastis with our guides:
bespokeunit.com/spirits/pastis
00:00 Introduction
Ricard Pastis was reviewed using the Bespoke Unit Liquor Formula, a quantifiable review matrix that you can use online or quickly refer to if you're in a hurry.
00:38 Overview
Pastis was invented in the 1920s as an absinthe substitute following its ban in 1915. Pernod and Ricard are among the best-known pastis brands and these separate companies merged in 1975 to become the alcohol giant we known today. Ricard's pastis is still produced in Marseille from a variety of herbs and spices such as anise, fennel, caraway, and ginger. As a Pastis de Marseille, it is made at 45% ABV.
02:49 Robe & Appearance
Before louching (adding water) Ricard is a dark brown liquid. It's clear overall but it can develop a deposit if stored in a cold room for too long. It leaves a sticky residue, which indicates the use of sugar in the liquid. The legs are surprisingly thick and slow.
03:44 Nose
The nose is unctuous and sweet. Its bouquet is rich without being intense. It's dominated by aniseed but there are hints of fennel and ginger, too. It's not complex, either. Adding water is quick and leaves a milky yellow liquid.
05:10 Palate
With a very sweet flavour profile with an astringent mouthfeel, Ricard opens with aniseed, fennel, and a hint of bay leaf. Its heart is somewhat sweeter and unctuous with whiffs of Turkish delight, ginger, and toffee. Lastly, its finish continues to deliver aniseed with other herbs and spices. While not a complex experience, it offers an easygoing viscous experience.
06:29 Overall Experience
Ricard's bottle is iconic with a classic design that's barely changed over the years. It features a screw top and no additional packaging. It's not a versatile drink nor is it particularly formal. However, it's perfect when looking for easy refreshment in the summer heat.
07:15 Cocktail Suggestions
Ricard and pastis in general aren't known for their cocktails but there have been creations in recent years. It can be used as an absinthe substitute in a pinch but there have been some dedicated cocktails like "Je Suis Marseille". It can also be used in mixers and we suggest that you check out our guide to the best pastis cocktails: bespokeunit.com/pastis/cocktails
08:24 Pairings
Opt for apéritif pairings like cold cuts, ham, pistachio nuts, and tapenade. You could also go with a good cigar if you like. Consider something with a herbal note. For instance, we reviewed the Plasencia Alma del Campo, which does have a hint of anise in the first third. Otherwise, a creamy Connecticut blend would work, too.
Already tried Ricard Pastis de Marseille or have any questions? Leave us a comment to let us know your thoughts!
CONNECT:
Web: BespokeUnit.com
Instagram: Instagram.com/BespokeUnit
Facebook: Facebook.com/BespokeUnit
Twitter: Twitter.com/BespokeUnit
Subscribe to Newsletter: BespokeUnit.com/newsletter
In this video, CP reviews Ricard Pastis. Learn about this French apéritif as we explore it in detail.
Discover The Liquor Formula & Read The Review:
bespokeunit.com/articles/spirits/ricard-pastis
Learn about the Bespoke Unit Liquor Formula:
bespokeunit.com/spirits/formula
Read all about Pastis with our guides:
bespokeunit.com/spirits/pastis
00:00 Introduction
Ricard Pastis was reviewed using the Bespoke Unit Liquor Formula, a quantifiable review matrix that you can use online or quickly refer to if you're in a hurry.
00:38 Overview
Pastis was invented in the 1920s as an absinthe substitute following its ban in 1915. Pernod and Ricard are among the best-known pastis brands and these separate companies merged in 1975 to become the alcohol giant we known today. Ricard's pastis is still produced in Marseille from a variety of herbs and spices such as anise, fennel, caraway, and ginger. As a Pastis de Marseille, it is made at 45% ABV.
02:49 Robe & Appearance
Before louching (adding water) Ricard is a dark brown liquid. It's clear overall but it can develop a deposit if stored in a cold room for too long. It leaves a sticky residue, which indicates the use of sugar in the liquid. The legs are surprisingly thick and slow.
03:44 Nose
The nose is unctuous and sweet. Its bouquet is rich without being intense. It's dominated by aniseed but there are hints of fennel and ginger, too. It's not complex, either. Adding water is quick and leaves a milky yellow liquid.
05:10 Palate
With a very sweet flavour profile with an astringent mouthfeel, Ricard opens with aniseed, fennel, and a hint of bay leaf. Its heart is somewhat sweeter and unctuous with whiffs of Turkish delight, ginger, and toffee. Lastly, its finish continues to deliver aniseed with other herbs and spices. While not a complex experience, it offers an easygoing viscous experience.
06:29 Overall Experience
Ricard's bottle is iconic with a classic design that's barely changed over the years. It features a screw top and no additional packaging. It's not a versatile drink nor is it particularly formal. However, it's perfect when looking for easy refreshment in the summer heat.
07:15 Cocktail Suggestions
Ricard and pastis in general aren't known for their cocktails but there have been creations in recent years. It can be used as an absinthe substitute in a pinch but there have been some dedicated cocktails like "Je Suis Marseille". It can also be used in mixers and we suggest that you check out our guide to the best pastis cocktails: bespokeunit.com/pastis/cocktails
08:24 Pairings
Opt for apéritif pairings like cold cuts, ham, pistachio nuts, and tapenade. You could also go with a good cigar if you like. Consider something with a herbal note. For instance, we reviewed the Plasencia Alma del Campo, which does have a hint of anise in the first third. Otherwise, a creamy Connecticut blend would work, too.
Already tried Ricard Pastis de Marseille or have any questions? Leave us a comment to let us know your thoughts!
CONNECT:
Web: BespokeUnit.com
Instagram: Instagram.com/BespokeUnit
Facebook: Facebook.com/BespokeUnit
Twitter: Twitter.com/BespokeUnit
Subscribe to Newsletter: BespokeUnit.com/newsletter
