The main ingredients for Pernod Ricard’s signature liqueurs, Ricard and Pernod, are star anise, licorice root, and aromatic plants/herbs, combined with water, alcohol, and sugar.Â
Ricard Pastis
Ricard, a pastis created in 1932, is known for its strong licorice flavor and is made from natural ingredients. The specific ingredients include:Â
Water
Alcohol
Sugar
Natural extracts of licorice (specifically licorice root juice)
Anise (from Chinese star anise)
Fennel
Caramelized sugar (for color and flavor)
A blend of aromatic plants from ProvenceÂ
Pernod AniseÂ
Pernod, which dates back to 1805 as an absinthe, is an anise-flavored spirit distinct from pastis due to its lower licorice content. Its ingredients include:Â
Water
Alcohol
Glucose syrup
Extract of anise (from star anise)
Extracts of aromatic herbs, including a small amount of licorice
Fennel
Coriander and mint are among the 14 total herbs used
Colors (E104, E124)Â
The addition of cold water to either liqueur causes them to turn a cloudy, milky color, known as the “louching” effect, as the essential oils from the anise and other botanicals are released from the alcohol solution.Â