review: Mahia Meknesiah
February 19th, 2008
- Category: fig brandy (flavored with aniseed)
- Alcohol: 36%
- Origin: France
- Manufacturer: Thivolet Universal
- Bought at: Naouri kosher supermarket, Nice, France
Mahia (which means water of life in Arabic) is originally a Jewish Moroccan fig brandy. As the Anisette Phénix, it is now produced in France. Nevertheless other brands are still available in Morocco (see the second external link). It apparently exists either as a pure eau de vie of figs (as the Tunisian Boukha) or flavored with aniseed. This Mahia Meknesiah is flavored with aniseed, but it is very subtle, completely unlike arak, pastis or ouzo where anise is overwhelming. In any case the aroma is rather similar to boukha, but it is much fruitier en more fragrant. The taste is also much better than boukha. It should definitely not be diluted with water. It tastes fresh and fruity and the anise flavor gives a very nice and subtle touch. 8,5/10.
External link: M.G. Taieb Kosher Products
External link: Dafina Forums: Mahia (in French)