Anise hyssop is a little secret weapon in the herb world. With soft licorice flavor, sweet floral notes, and a scent that hints at mint and fennel, this herb is perfect for cocktails that lean botanical, dessert-like, or garden-fresh.
It’s beautiful to look at, incredibly fragrant, and easy to use in syrups, teas, and infused spirits.
Like its extremely distant cousin, hyssop, I planted anise hyssop this year so I could have fresh year-round at home and not have to rely on local farmers or dried herbs as I continue to play with this complex herb.
Flavor Profile
Sweet and mildly licorice-like, with undertones of mint, honey, and floral spice. Much softer than true anise or fennel but still aromatic.
What Is Anise Hyssop?
- Agastache foeniculum (Anise Hyssop)
Despite the name, it’s not related to hyssop or anise but shares flavor similarities. It’s a member of the mint family with tall spikes of purple flowers and edible leaves.
Bonus: Both the leaves and flowers are edible and full of flavor, making this herb ideal for cocktails and garnishes alike.
Best Ways to Use Anise Hyssop in Cocktails
- Syrup: Steep fresh leaves and flowers in a 1:1 sugar-water syrup for a delicate licorice-floral sweetener.
- Infused Honey: Blend warmed honey with crushed leaves or flowers for a naturally sweet cocktail mix-in.
- Muddling: Lightly muddle with lemon juice or berries for garden-style drinks.
- Garnish: Use a sprig of purple flowers for a striking (and tasty) finish.
Perfect Spirit Pairings
- Gin – Beautifully matches botanical profiles
- Vodka – Lets anise hyssop take center stage
- Champagne or Prosecco – Adds floral depth to bubbly drinks
- White Rum – Great with citrus and honey
- Absinthe or Pastis – Layer licorice-on-licorice for strong herbal drinks
Flavor Pairings
- Lemon
- Honey
- Lavender
- Pear
- Cucumber
- Apple
- Berries (especially blueberry or blackberry)
- Chamomile
- Thyme or mint
Anise Hyssop Cocktail Ideas
- Anise Hyssop Gin Sour – Gin, lemon juice, anise hyssop syrup, egg white (optional)
- Honey Hyssop Fizz – Vodka, honey-hyssop syrup, lemon, soda water
- Bubbly Garden Spritz – Prosecco, anise hyssop syrup, splash of lemon, flower garnish
- Berry Hyssop Smash – Muddled berries, rum or gin, anise hyssop, lime juice
- Anise Hyssop Old Fashioned – Bourbon, anise hyssop syrup, orange bitters (for a floral twist)
Anise Hyssop Tips & Warnings
- Use fresh. Dried anise hyssop loses much of its floral aroma. Grab your seeds here.
- Steep gently. Over-steeping can bring out grassy or bitter notes.
- Taste before adding. Not everyone loves licorice—test your balance before serving to a crowd.
- Pair it thoughtfully. This herb is delicate and can be overpowered—best in light, clean cocktails.
Anise hyssop is a gorgeous way to add a touch of elegance and sweetness to your drinks. Whether you’re crafting a garden party cocktail or a fresh floral mocktail, this herb brings a gentle complexity that feels a little bit fancy and totally refreshing.
