Kawar Arak – 86 Proof (43% ABV) | 700ml

Kawar Arak is a traditional Israeli anise-flavored spirit produced by the Kawar family distillery. Made with carefully selected Syrian anise, this classic arak delivers the distinctive aromatic character and subtle licorice notes associated with traditional Middle Eastern arak.

Bottled at 86 Proof (43% ABV), this expression offers a balanced combination of aromatic anise, smooth texture, and a refreshing finish. It is traditionally enjoyed with cold water and ice, making it an excellent accompaniment to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Key Details

• Brand: Kawar
• Spirit Type: Arak
• Style: Anise-Flavored Spirit
• Origin: Israel
• Producer: Sons of Baheej Kawar Ltd.
• Key Botanical: Syrian Anise
• Alcohol Content: 43% ABV / 86 Proof
• Bottle Size: 700ml

Process & Production

Kawar has been producing arak for generations, beginning with Iskander Kawar's home distillery in 1950. The family later established a professional distillery and continued developing its production methods while maintaining traditional arak-making techniques.

The use of fine Syrian anise is central to Kawar's arak, providing its signature aromatic and licorice-like character. Kawar also uses advanced distillation and quality-control processes at its modern distillery.

Appearance

Kawar Arak is clear and transparent when poured. When traditionally mixed with cold water, the anise oils become suspended in the liquid, producing the characteristic cloudy white appearance associated with arak.

Tasting Notes

Nose:
Aromatic Syrian anise with an elegant herbal character.

Palate:
Smooth and balanced, with prominent anise and delicate licorice notes.

Finish:
Clean and refreshing, with lingering anise and subtle herbal spice.

What Makes It Special

Kawar Arak combines three generations of family distilling tradition with modern production technology. The Kawar family has built its reputation around using quality raw materials, particularly Syrian anise, to create expressive arak with a distinctive regional character.

The 43% ABV bottling offers a classic strength that works particularly well in the traditional arak-and-water serve.

How to Enjoy

• Traditional: Pour over ice and slowly add cold water.
• With Water: Diluting arak helps open its aromas and creates its signature cloudy appearance.
• Neat: Serve chilled for a more concentrated anise experience.
• With Food: Excellent alongside mezze, grilled meats, seafood, hummus, and other Mediterranean dishes.
• Cocktails: Arak's distinctive anise character can also add complexity to cocktails. Kawar specifically notes that arak works well with water, ice, and cocktails.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kawar Arak?
Kawar Arak is a traditional anise-flavored spirit from Israel, produced by the Kawar family distillery.

What is the alcohol content?
This expression is 86 Proof (43% ABV).

What size is the bottle?
It comes in a 700ml bottle.

What gives arak its distinctive flavor?
Anise, particularly the Syrian anise used by Kawar, gives the spirit its characteristic aromatic and licorice-like profile.

Why does arak turn cloudy when water is added?
The natural anise oils become suspended when the spirit is diluted with cold water, creating the traditional cloudy-white appearance.

How should Kawar Arak be served?
Traditionally, it is served with ice and cold water, often alongside Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food.