Absinthe and other anise-flavored liqueurs are known for their distinctive licorice taste derived from anise, star anise, and in the case of absinthe, grand wormwood. Absinthe, originating from Europe, is a high-proof spirit renowned for its green color and complex flavor profile that includes green anise, florence fennel, and other botanicals. It undergoes a unique distillation and maceration process, which, combined with a secondary maceration, imparts its famous green hue and herbal flavors. The addition of water to absinthe triggers the "ouzo effect," turning the spirit a cloudy white due to the reaction of anethole oil from anise and fennel with water, without inducing hallucinations contrary to popular myth.

Other notable anise-flavored spirits and liqueurs include Ouzo from Greece, known for its strong licorice flavor and clarity that turns milky white when mixed with water due to the louche effect; Sambuca from Italy, a sweetened liqueur traditionally served with coffee beans; and Pastis from France, which became popular as an alternative to absinthe when it was banned.