ACTUS Champions
- 22 hours ago
- 1 min read
The World’s Best Pastis Is from Taha’a (Leeward islands)
It is a win perfumed with anise, sunlight, and the sugarcane of Taha’a. Tahitian Pastis, crafted by the Va’eva’e Distillery, has just been named World’s Best Pastis 2026 at the World Drinks Awards in London.
An unexpected distinction for a spirit more readily associated with Marseille than with the Leeward Islands. Made from a base of organic agricole rum and infused with star anise, fennel, green anise, licorice, and a subtle touch of cinnamon, this Polynesian pastis captivated the jury with its singular identity and delicate rum notes on the finish.
Behind the award is the patient work of Olivier Duret and his small craft distillery on Taha’a. Nearly 80 trials were needed to arrive at the right balance: fresh, harmonious, and perfectly attuned to the Polynesian climate.
With only 1,500 bottles produced each year, Tahitian Pastis is now casting an unexpected spotlight on the spirits of the fenua. And it offers a wry reminder that, in 2026, the world’s finest pastis does not come from the Canebière, but from Taha’a.
