Arak Touma 100 Proof – Lebanon's Legendary King of Arak

Updated → September 2025

Arak Touma 100 Proof stands as Lebanon's most prestigious anise spirit, crafted since 1888 with quadruple distillation from premium grapes and whole aniseed, earning its rightful title as the "King of Arak."

The History and Tradition of Arak Touma

Since 1888, R.T. Touma & Freres has masterfully crafted Arak Touma 100 Proof, establishing an enduring legacy in Lebanese distillation. This distinguished spirit takes its name from the chapel of St. Thomas, nestled within the heart of the vineyards where the journey begins. The Touma family's dedication to traditional methods has earned their arak the prestigious moniker "King of Arak," a title that reflects over 135 years of unwavering commitment to excellence.

The story begins in Chtaura, Lebanon, where the Mediterranean climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for cultivating the sweet white grapes that form the foundation of this exceptional spirit. The Touma distillery has weathered political upheavals, economic challenges, and changing consumer preferences while maintaining the same meticulous production standards established by its founders.

The Art of Quadruple Distillation

What sets Arak Touma 100 Proof apart from ordinary anise spirits lies in its remarkable quadruple distillation process. This time-honored technique begins with carefully selected sweet white grapes, pressed and fermented to create a clean base wine. The magic happens during four separate distillation cycles, each performed over low fire to preserve the delicate aromatics.

During each distillation phase, precise amounts of whole aniseed are added—never star anise, oils, or extracts. This commitment to using only whole aniseed ensures the purest expression of the botanical's essential character. Water is carefully introduced at specific intervals, creating a harmonious integration between the grape spirit and anise flavors. The final distillate emerges crystal clear at 100 proof, representing the perfect balance of strength and refinement.

Discovering the Flavor Profile

The first encounter with Arak Touma 100 Proof reveals its sophisticated complexity. The nose presents clean, pronounced anise aromatics without the cloying sweetness found in lesser spirits. Unlike many commercial anise liqueurs, this arak remains completely unsweetened, allowing the natural interplay between grape distillate and aniseed to shine.

On the palate, the initial impression delivers bold licorice notes that gradually unfold into layers of subtle spice and herbal complexity. The high proof provides a warming sensation without harsh burn, testament to the careful distillation process. The finish lingers elegantly, leaving traces of anise and a refreshing cleanliness that invites another sip.

Lebanese Heritage in Every Bottle

Lebanon's arak tradition spans millennia, with Arak Touma 100 Proof representing the pinnacle of this ancient craft. The spirit embodies Lebanese hospitality, traditionally shared among family and friends during mezze feasts. Each bottle carries the weight of cultural significance, from village celebrations to urban dinner parties across the Lebanese diaspora.

The production methods remain unchanged from generation to generation, preserving techniques that might otherwise be lost to modernization. This dedication ensures that Lebanese expatriates worldwide can experience authentic flavors that transport them home with each glass.

Traditional Serving Methods

The ritual of serving Arak Touma 100 Proof follows time-honored Lebanese customs. The classic preparation involves one part arak to two parts water, poured over ice in a small glass. The transformation from clear spirit to milky white louche creates visual drama while releasing aromatic compounds.

Temperature plays a crucial role—the arak should be chilled but never frozen, as extreme cold mutes the delicate flavors. Some purists prefer adding a single large ice cube after mixing, allowing gradual dilution that opens up different flavor notes throughout the drinking experience. The key lies in patience, savoring each sip rather than rushing through the glass.

Perfect Food Pairings

The bold anise character of Arak Touma 100 Proof makes it an ideal companion for Mediterranean cuisine. Traditional pairings include fresh honeydew melon wrapped with mint leaves, creamy feta cheese drizzled with olive oil, and crispy fried fish with lemon. The spirit's cleansing properties cut through rich, fatty foods while complementing fresh herbs and citrus.

Modern chefs have discovered that arak enhances seafood preparations, particularly grilled octopus, sardines, and shellfish. The anise notes also harmonize beautifully with Middle Eastern spices like sumac, za'atar, and Aleppo pepper. Vegetarian dishes featuring eggplant, chickpeas, and tahini find an excellent partner in this versatile spirit.

Comparing Premium Araks

Within the premium arak category, Arak Touma 100 Proof distinguishes itself through several key factors. While many producers have simplified their processes to increase output, Touma maintains its labor-intensive quadruple distillation. The exclusive use of whole aniseed, rather than cheaper alternatives, creates a more nuanced flavor profile compared to mass-market brands.

The 100-proof bottling strength represents another point of differentiation. Many commercial araks dilute to 80 proof or lower, sacrificing intensity for broader appeal. Touma's higher alcohol content preserves the full spectrum of flavors extracted during distillation, offering connoisseurs a more authentic experience.

Modern Cocktail Applications

Creative bartenders have embraced Arak Touma 100 Proof as a sophisticated cocktail ingredient. Its bold character stands up well in mixed drinks, adding complexity without overwhelming other flavors. Popular creations include the Lebanese Mule (arak, ginger beer, lime, and mint), the Phoenician Fizz (arak, lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white, and soda), and the Cedar Forest (arak, green Chartreuse, and cucumber).

The spirit's natural affinity for citrus makes it excellent in sour-style cocktails, while its herbal qualities complement bitter aperitifs and vermouths. Bartenders appreciate how the louche effect adds visual interest to layered drinks and frozen preparations.

Behind the Production

The creation of Arak Touma 100 Proof involves meticulous attention at every stage. Grape selection focuses on indigenous Lebanese varieties that provide clean, neutral character ideal for showcasing anise. Fermentation proceeds slowly at controlled temperatures, preventing unwanted congeners that could mar the final product.

The distillation equipment consists of traditional copper alembic stills, maintained and repaired by skilled craftsmen who understand the nuances of proper heat distribution. Between distillations, the stills undergo thorough cleaning to prevent flavor contamination. After the fourth and final distillation, the spirit rests in earthenware jars for at least six months, allowing harsh alcohols to mellow while flavors marry.

Cultural Significance in Lebanon

In Lebanese culture, Arak Touma 100 Proof transcends mere beverage status. It represents hospitality, celebration, and connection to ancestral traditions. No Lebanese wedding, baptism, or feast feels complete without arak flowing freely among guests. The ritual of preparing and sharing arak creates bonds between generations, with elders passing down proper serving techniques to younger family members.

The spirit also plays a role in Lebanese business culture, where deals are often sealed over glasses of arak and plates of mezze. This social lubricant facilitates open communication and trust-building in ways that transcend formal meetings.

Buying and Storage Guide

When purchasing Arak Touma 100 Proof, look for clear, unblemished bottles with intact seals. The liquid should appear completely transparent with no sediment or cloudiness. Proper storage requires a cool, dark location away from temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight.

Unlike wine, arak doesn't improve with age once bottled, but properly stored bottles maintain quality for years. After opening, the high alcohol content prevents spoilage, though subtle aromatics may dissipate over time. For optimal enjoyment, consume opened bottles within 12-18 months.

Professional Tasting Notes

Professional spirits judges consistently praise Arak Touma 100 Proof for its exceptional balance and complexity. The initial nose presents pure anise without medicinal notes, followed by hints of fresh fennel fronds and white flowers. The palate entrance shows remarkable smoothness despite the high proof, with licorice root intensity building gradually.

Mid-palate reveals subtle grape distillate character—clean and slightly fruity without competing with the anise. The finish extends impressively, leaving cooling sensations reminiscent of fresh spearmint. When diluted properly, additional notes of star anise, cardamom, and white pepper emerge.

Authenticity and Quality Markers

Genuine Arak Touma 100 Proof displays several authenticity markers. The label features traditional Arabic calligraphy alongside the Touma family crest, printed on quality paper that resists peeling. The bottle closure uses natural cork rather than synthetic alternatives, reflecting commitment to traditional packaging.

When mixed with water, authentic Touma produces an immediate, uniform louche without oil separation or uneven cloudiness. The aroma should remain pleasant and inviting throughout dilution, never becoming harsh or chemical. These quality indicators help distinguish genuine bottles from potential counterfeits in international markets.

Occasions and Celebrations

While Arak Touma 100 Proof suits everyday enjoyment, certain occasions call for this premium spirit. Lebanese Independence Day celebrations feature arak prominently, honoring national heritage through traditional toasts. Religious festivals, regardless of denomination, often include arak as part of communal feasting.

In diaspora communities, opening a bottle of Touma creates instant connection to homeland memories. Graduation parties, business achievements, and family milestones gain authenticity when marked with this cultural touchstone. The spirit bridges generational gaps, allowing grandparents to share stories while introducing younger family members to ancestral traditions.

Final Thoughts on Arak Touma

In the pantheon of world spirits, Arak Touma 100 Proof stands as a testament to the power of tradition, craftsmanship, and cultural preservation. This isn't merely an anise-flavored spirit but a liquid embodiment of Lebanese heritage, carrying forward techniques perfected over centuries.

For newcomers to arak, Touma offers an ideal introduction—bold enough to showcase the category's distinctive character while refined enough to avoid overwhelming the palate. Experienced arak drinkers recognize Touma as a benchmark against which other producers are measured. Whether enjoyed in traditional Lebanese style or incorporated into contemporary cocktails, this "King of Arak" continues to reign supreme, connecting drinkers worldwide to the sun-drenched vineyards and time-honored traditions of Lebanon.