National Anisette Day Date in the current year: July 2, 2024

Anisette is an anise-flavored liqueur that is very popular in most Mediterranean countries including Italy, Spain, Portugal, Turkey and France. This liqueur is colorless and contains no licorice, unlike some other anise-based drinks. Anisette is much sweeter than most anise-flavored liqueur, that is why it's often diluted with water before consumption.

Due to its high alcohol content anisette can cause throat irritation when drunk straight and fast. So dilute it with water, serve anisette on the rocks or use it as an ingredient in refreshing cocktails. For example, the Aniso cocktail would be the best for the holiday.

Pour 1 ounce of anisette, 1 ounce of white crème de cacao, 3/4 ounce of light cream into a shaker and shake well with ice cubes. Strain the cocktail into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish it with an orange slice and a maraschino cheery. This cocktail will have an irresistible anise flavor and a light creamy texture perfect for a hot summer party.