Ibizan herbs, Do they sound familiar to you? In Ibiza, they can't be missing from your table! You've probably heard of this aniseed-flavoured liqueur from time to time, but just in case you don't know exactly what we're talking about, we're going to make sure that, as soon as you finish reading this article, you'll be an expert on Ibizan herbs.
First of all, we are going to tell you how Ibiza's most famous drink is made. It is made up of a selection of species of island flora (up to 28 different plants and flowers! Among them, thyme, rosemary, rue, chamomile, lemon verbena, lavender and fennel stand out.
Despite having a 24% minimum and 38% vol minimum, it is considered a digestive. However, be careful not to overindulge, as this will quickly go to your head. You have been warned! It is best to drink in moderation.
There are several family businesses in Ibiza who have been responsible for its production for hundreds of years, just as it was done in the past. Herbes Can Vidal, in San Juan, is one of them. Its recipe, full of love, is marked by a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation for years.
Many restaurants and private homes also prepare their own herbs. Some do not hesitate to innovate, adding their own touch, because Ibizan herbs are full of nuances that can be easily played with.
IBIZA HERBS AT THE FOREFRONT
Ibizan herbs have become popular over time. To this day, it is one of the most original memories after a stay in Ibiza. You can find them in any supermarket, souvenir shop or even at the airport. In addition, they are available in various formats, so you can travel with them without size restrictions.
Another aspect that has evolved regarding Ibizan herbs is the way of consuming them. Generally, they used to be served in the typical flat glass, without any further mysteries, after a copious meal. Nowadays, it is usual to drink them in shot format, but you can also order them in a mixed drink and, if you prefer, some bars have a wide variety of cocktails with this drink as a base. An example of this is the already famous country mojito Can you imagine what its ingredients might be?
Apart from the combination of aromatic herbs that result from Ibizan herbs, in Ibiza there are other typical liqueurs made with herbs. palo, the frigola or the rumaniseta are some examples. The first is a black liquor made from cinchona and sugar and, unlike most, is usually drunk before eating. The second is another liquor made from wild herbs with a special emphasis on thyme (frígola) and the third, on the other hand, is made with rosemary.
We could continue talking to you about these drinks with the taste of the most rural Ibiza, but is there a better way to get to know them than by trying them? You can do it order them in a glass with ice and taste them in front of a beautiful sunset background. Without a doubt an 100% ibicenco moment.
Next, if you allow us, we are going to recommend some of our favorites.
IBIZA HERBAL BRANDS
MARÍ MAYANS FAMILY IBIZA HERBS
The Ibizan herbs of the Marí Mayans Family They are undoubtedly one of the best known, not only in Ibiza, but also outside the island. There are few who do not recognize the typical silhouette of its bottle and it is that they have been on the market nothing more and nothing less than since 1880.
Despite the name, these herbs were born in Formentera by the hand of Juan Marí Mayans, creator of the original recipes. Today, the fifth generation of Mari Mayans Family, With brothers Carlos and Bartolomé at the helm, it is responsible for continuing the legacy and taking this typical product outside our borders.
By the way, the house does not only produce Ibizan herbs, but also distributes other typical liqueurs such as palo, frígola or absinthe.
HERBES CAN VIDAL
Herbes Can Vidal, San Juan. Ibizan tradition since the year 1928. The recipe of Vicente Torres Torres with his personal touch lasts today. Some of the herbs they use gather them in their own garden.
The design of the packaging alone will captivate you. A traditional bottle of aniseed with a nod to tradition on its label, as the woman who appears on it is the grandmother of the family.
After becoming one of the most sought-after herbs in Ibiza, Vicente Torres Colomar, who is currently in charge of the legacy, has managed to give the business a new twist by creating a combination that is, to say the least, amazing: Ibizan herbs with the white spring truffle! We recommend that you try them as soon as you have the chance.
Also, to adapt to the times, at the San Juan tobacco shop (main distributor), they offer you the possibility of recycling bottles. You will only have to bring yours and they will make sure it is full again. They will also offer you a shot.
IBIZA HERBS ANISETA
One of the most popular family recipes for artisanal Ibizan herbs on the island is the one they make at Aniseed Liqueurs, factory founded by brothers Vicente and Juan Ferrer Roig in 1925.
They were born in a small grocery store in La Marina and, since then, the brand has only grown, becoming known even outside of Spain.
This legendary recipe has become one of the most sought-after gifts by tourists who want to take home a nice souvenir from the island. However, at Licores Aniseta you can not only enjoy the flavour of classic Ibizan herbs, but you can also get liqueur de palo, café caleta, flor des camp, absinthe or gin, among others.
Difficult choice!
CAN RICH WINERIES
Can Rich wineries. Yes, this winery founded in 1997 is best known for the quality of its wines and oils, however, they also produce typical Ibizan liqueurs and, among them, Ibizan herbs stand out above all.
In their recipe, which they carefully maintain, they follow the steps of tradition. With it they have managed to become one of the best-known brands of herbs. But they do not only make this liqueur, they also sell other historical drinks such as caleta coffee or coffee herbs.
If you can, we highly recommend that you visit their winery. There, surrounded by nature, you will find their beautiful shop, where you can buy any of their products.
The good news is that if you can't make it to the store, you can visit their website where they will tell you where you can purchase their items (both in Spain and the rest of Europe).
CA N'ANNETA HERBS
Bar Anita or Ca n'Anneta It is one of the best-known restaurants on the island and, more specifically, in the town of San Carlos.
Ibizan herbs are just one part of its history. They are made by the women of the village following 100% traditional methods.
Once you try them, you'll want more! Don't worry, as they are not only available for tasting on site, but also for sale. Many tourists and locals come to the restaurant to get a bottle.
If you want a great plan, 100% Ibizan, eat some good montaditos at Bar Anita, continue with a piece of their greixonera and finish the meal with your glass of Ibizan herbs.
