The French love their pastis, an aperitif that tastes of licorice. It’s a flavor you love or hate. We’ve created a riff on this easy-drinking cocktail that uses a Star Anise Simple Syrup to sweetly highlight the classic aniseed flavors, without the bitterness.
Star Anise Sparkler
Makes 1 drink
Ingredients
- ¾ ounce Lillet Blanc
- 1 teaspoon Star Anise Simple Syrup (recipe follows)
- 4 to 6 ounces Champagne, chilled
- Garnish: lemon twist
Instructions
- Place a cocktail glass in the freezer to chill.
- To a drink shaker, add enough ice cubes to fill halfway. Add Lillet Blanc and Star Anise Simple Syrup. Shake vigorously until outside of shaker is frosted, about 1 minute. Strain into chilled glass. Top with Champagne. Garnish with a lemon twist, if desired.
Star Anise Simple Syrup
Makes 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 star anise
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, bring sugar and 1 cup water to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium, and simmer until sugar is dissolved, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat; add star anise. Steep anise for 10 minutes; remove anise. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
