What is aluminium arak?

Aluminium arak, also known as arak aluminium, is a type of clear, anise-flavored spirit that is highly popular in Middle Eastern countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Israel. It is made by distilling a mixture of fermented grapes (or dates) and aniseed, which gives it a unique flavor and aroma.

The term "aluminium" in the name refers to the traditional stills used to produce arak, which are often made from copper and topped with a swan-neck tube that is wrapped in aluminum foil. The stills are heated from the bottom and the distillate is collected in a vessel at the other end of the swan neck.

Aluminium arak is typically served diluted with ice water or sometimes mixed with fruit juice or other beverages. It is typically consumed with mezze, a selection of small dishes served as appetizers, and is often enjoyed in social settings with friends and family.

Aluminium arak is a highly regulated product in some countries, with strict standards and quality controls enforced to maintain its authenticity and prevent counterfeit production. It is also considered a traditional and cultural symbol of the Middle East, with many families having their own special recipe and production method passed down through generations.