Looking to replace Herbsaint in your recipes? We’ve got your back. Whether you forgot to buy it or just want to try something new, there are plenty of alternatives.
We once ran out of Herbsaint during a cocktail party. Crisis averted! We had fun experimenting with different substitutes. It’s amazing how some simple swaps can make a drink taste just as good.
Let’s break down the options. These substitutes will keep your drinks top-notch. You’ll barely notice the difference. Ready to shake things up? Here are six easy Herbsaint substitutes you can use right now.

5 Easy Substitutes for Herbsaint
Here are the six Herbsaint substitutes we’ll cover:
1 – Pernod
First, Pernod is our top pick. It’s the closest in taste to Herbsaint. Pernod has a strong anise flavor with a sweet finish. We think it adds a nice depth to cocktails.
We once used it in a Sazerac and couldn’t tell the difference. Its licorice notes and herbal hints make it spot-on. For more Pernod insights, check out best alternatives to Pernod.
Pernod is not overpowering. It’s smooth and balanced, perfect for those who love a subtle sweetness in their drinks.
2 – Ricard Pastis
Ricard Pastis rocks a bold anise flavor with a nice, herbal twist. We found it a tad more intense than Pernod, making it ideal for drinks with oomph.
One time, we swapped Herbsaint with Ricard Pastis in our Sazerac, and wow, what a hit! The licorice notes were on point and super aromatic.
Pastis might be a bit punchy for some, but it holds its ground nicely in cocktails. For more on Pastis alternatives, check out other Pastis substitutes.
A great pick if you like a strong, aromatic kick.
3 – Absinthe
Next, let’s talk Absinthe. It’s got a bold, intense anise flavor that’s unforgettable. Known for its high proof, it adds a strong licorice punch to your drinks.
We’ve tried it in a Sazerac and, wow, the aroma was incredible. Absinthe is rich and aromatic, making every sip an experience.
It’s more potent than Herbsaint, but well worth it for those who like strong flavors. Curious? Check out these Absinthe substitutes.
Absinthe brings a distinct and powerful flavor that’s hard to beat.
4 – Ouzo
The fragrant and vibrant Ouzo shines with its bold anise and a hint of herbs. In our experience, it amps up our drinks with a unique twist.
We tried Ouzo in a Sazerac, and it was a game-changer. The taste is strong, with a licorice aftertaste, perfect for those who enjoy intense flavors.
If you’re curious, check out more Ouzo alternatives. The boldness of Ouzo is unmatched, giving your cocktails a memorable kick.
5 – Sambuca
Last up, Sambuca steals the show with its bold anise flavor and hint of sweetness. We swapped Sambuca for Herbsaint in our cocktails and loved the smooth, licorice kick it gave.
It’s sweet but not overpowering, with a silky texture that meshes well in drinks. We tried it in a Sazerac—it worked like a charm.
For more on other potential swaps, check out these Sambuca alternatives. Perfect for those who like their drinks bright and flavourful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Pernod is a great substitute with a similar anise-flavored profile, though it’s a bit less sweet than Herbsaint.
Ricard Pastis has a similar licorice flavor but is a bit more herbal, making it a perfect substitute in both cooking and drinks.
Absinthe offers a stronger herbal flavor with a more intense licorice bite, similar to Herbsaint’s profile.
Yes, Ouzo can substitute for Herbsaint, though it has a slightly sweeter flavor with a more pronounced anise taste.
Sambuca’s sweeter profile makes it a good substitute, but you might want to reduce the sugar content in your recipe.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.