Pernod is a historic French spirits brand with a legacy that dates back to the early 19th century, famously intertwined with the history of absinthe. The brand was founded in 1805 in Pontarlier, France, by Henri-Louis Pernod. When absinthe was banned in France in 1915, the company was forced to adapt and reinvent its product. It reformulated its spirit, creating an anise-flavored liqueur that did not contain wormwood. This modern version became the product that is known and beloved today, symbolizing resilience and a bold new direction.

The brand's philosophy is rooted in a commitment to a clean, fresh, and distinctly anise-forward flavor profile. Pernod is crafted from distillates of star anise and fennel, along with a blend of other aromatic plants. It is notably different from pastis because it contains very little to no licorice, giving it a lighter, more vibrant character. When mixed with water, the spirit famously turns a cloudy white, a phenomenon known as the "louche" that is a hallmark of anise-based spirits. Pernod has a reputation as a versatile and classic spirit, cherished for its ability to add a refreshing note to a wide range of cocktails.