Pisco Cocktail with Anise Simple Syrup

Pisco is a spirit made from distilled grape wine. In this pretty cocktail, it’s paired with an anise simple syrup that gives just the right bite without being overpowering.

Part of being a great hostess is having what I call a back pocket cocktail. You know, a signature recipe you have in your back pocket for entertaining. We always have a stash of wine and good beer on hand, but there’s just something about mixing up a great cocktail that makes any gathering an occasion.

Pisco is popping up in cocktails everywhere right now. Formerly, this spirit that was traditionally distilled from grape wine in Chile and Peru was usually found in Pisco Sours. Pisco Sours feature egg white and lime and are pretty dang delicious. But it’s really time for a new star (anise? I’m so punny, right?).

This Chilcano de Anis Pisco cocktail features pisco and the aromatic flavors of anise. I’ve never been one for anise or fennel. Most of the time it’s just too strong and overpowers whatever dish it’s in.

The Chilcano de Anis Pisco cocktail is completely different. A bit of sweetness and the bite of ginger beer mellow out the anise so it’s much more subtle and pleasant than you might expect. Also, how pretty are those anise pods floating in it?

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Chilcano de Anis Pisco Cocktail

Pisco is a spirit made from distilled grape wine. In this pretty cocktail, it’s paired with an anise simple syrup that gives just the right bite without being overpowering.

• Author: Kelly Egan
• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Total Time: 16 minutes
• Yield: 1
• Category: Drinks

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 10 star anise pods
• 1.5 oz Pisco (I used Barsol Selecto Italia)
• .5 oz Fresh key Lime juice
• 3 dashes of Abbott’s bitters
• 5 oz Ginger Beer
• Garnish with star anise

Instructions

1. Make the anise simple syrup by combining water and sugar in a small saucepan on medium heat. When sugar is dissolved, add 10 star anise pods. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, then turn heat off and let steep for at least 1 hour. Let cool. Syrup will be good in the fridge for at least a week.
2. To assemble the cocktail, fill a cocktail glass with ice. Pour Pisco over ice. Add 1/2 ounce anise simple syrup, lime juice, bitters and stir once. Top with ginger beer and garnish with star anise.