Tag: hierbas de Mallorca

The dove of anise
Gastronomy

Hierbas de Mallorca and aniseed liqueur: why they change colour when water is added

Have you ever wondered why Hierbas de Mallorca turns cloudy when mixed with water? This curious phenomenon, known as the “dove of anise”, is caused by anethole, the aromatic compound found in anise oil. When cold water is added to an anise-based spirit, the anethole forms tiny droplets, giving the drink its characteristic milky or cloudy appearance. Discover the science behind this fascinating reaction and learn why it also occurs in Mallorca’s traditional herbal liqueur, Hierbas de Mallorca.