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.
