Fakra Arak 100 Proof 750ML is a traditional Lebanese arak bottled at 50% ABV (100 proof) in a 750ml format, distilled from native grapes and aniseed. A two-time Silver Medal winner at the MLSA Competition (2022 and 2024), this expression draws its character from clay-jar aging and centuries-old distilling traditions rooted in the mountains of Lebanon. Quick Facts: ABV: 50% (100 Proof) | Origin: Kfardebian, Lebanon | Style: Anise Spirit | Distillery: Fakra (est. early 18th century) Production & Heritage The Fakra distillery traces its roots to the early 18th century, when a noble Lebanese family began producing arak in Kfardebian, a village nestled in the Mount Lebanon range. The spirit undergoes multiple distillations using a blend of indigenous Obeidi and Merwayh grape varieties combined with Hina aniseed — ingredients deeply tied to Lebanese winemaking and distilling heritage. After distillation, the arak matures in traditional baked clay jars, a method that distinguishes Fakra from producers who rely on glass or stainless steel storage. The clay vessels allow subtle micro-oxidation that contributes to the spirit's clean, balanced character and silky mouthfeel. Tasting Notes Aroma: Prominent aniseed leads immediately, followed by a sweet fennel undertone and subtle herbal complexity. A faint grape-spirit warmth sits beneath the dominant anise. Taste: The entry is bold and slightly spicy, with concentrated anise flooding the mid-palate. A rich, silky texture carries the spirit forward, revealing fennel-infused grape notes and a restrained sweetness that keeps the profile from becoming one-dimensional. At 100 proof, the intensity is substantial but never harsh. Finish: Medium-long with a distinct licorice note that lingers cleanly. The aniseed returns on the tail end, joined by a gentle warmth that fades gradually without bitterness. How to Drink Fakra Arak The traditional Lebanese serve remains the gold standard: pour one part arak over ice, then add roughly two parts cold water, which triggers the iconic milky-white louche as the anise oils emulsify. This dilution opens the aromatic profile and tames the 100-proof intensity for extended sipping alongside a meal. For cocktails, try an Arak Sour — the anise backbone pairs naturally with fresh lemon juice and a touch of simple syrup. A Mediterranean Mule substitutes Fakra Arak for vodka, where ginger beer amplifies the spicy anise notes. An Arak Spritz with sparkling water, a splash of orange blossom water, and fresh mint makes a refreshing warm-weather drink that highlights the spirit's fennel character. Best For Hosting a Lebanese or Middle Eastern–themed dinner with mezze Gifting a spirits enthusiast who appreciates traditional anise-based spirits Exploring the arak category at full 100-proof intensity Building a globally diverse home bar beyond European anise spirits Frequently Asked Questions What does Fakra Arak taste like? Fakra Arak delivers bold aniseed and licorice flavors carried by a rich, silky texture, with a fennel-infused undertone from its grape-spirit base. The finish is clean and licorice-forward with moderate warmth from its 50% ABV. How does Fakra Arak compare to Greek ouzo? Both are anise-flavored spirits that louche when diluted with water, but Fakra Arak is grape-based and distilled at a higher proof (100 proof versus ouzo's typical 80–90 proof), resulting in a bolder, more concentrated anise character. Fakra's clay-jar aging also contributes a smoother mouthfeel not typically found in ouzo production. Is Fakra Arak good for sipping neat? At 100 proof it can be sipped neat by experienced spirits drinkers, though the traditional and recommended method is to dilute with cold water and ice, which opens the aromatics and softens the intensity considerably. Where is Fakra Arak made? Fakra Arak is produced in Kfardebian, a mountain village in the Mount Lebanon district of Lebanon, by a distillery founded in the early 18th century by a noble Lebanese family. What foods pair well with Fakra Arak? Hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh work naturally because the anise cuts through the richness of tahini-based dishes. Grilled lamb kebabs complement the spicy warmth of the spirit. Fresh halloumi or feta cheese provides a salty counterpoint to the licorice sweetness. Raw kibbeh and fattoush salad are classic Lebanese pairings that mirror the spirit's cultural origins. What sizes does Fakra Arak come in? The standard and most widely available format is the 750ml bottle at 100 proof (50% ABV). Is Fakra Arak worth the price? Fakra Arak positions as a premium expression within the arak category, justified by its clay-jar aging, use of indigenous grape varieties, multi-generational distilling heritage, and back-to-back Silver Medals at the MLSA Competition — making it a strong value for drinkers seeking an authentic, full-proof Lebanese arak. Why Fakra Arak? What separates Fakra from the broader arak field is the clay-jar maturation — a labor-intensive technique that most modern producers have abandoned in favor of neutral containers. That aging step, combined with the use of both Obeidi and Merwayh grapes rather than a single variety, gives the finished spirit a layered complexity beneath its anise-dominant profile. Two consecutive Silver Medals at the MLSA Competition (2022 and 2024) confirm that the quality is recognized beyond Lebanon's borders. For drinkers already familiar with ouzo, rakı, or pastis, Fakra Arak at 100 proof represents a more intense and traditionally produced entry into the world of anise spirits.
