Pacific has been around since 1982, launched by Ricard to mark the brand's 50th anniversary, which makes it one of the oldest AF spirit alternatives on the market. It is not a new product capitalising on a trend — it has quietly been the go-to alcohol-free pastis for over four decades in France, which counts for something. The drink is built on natural anise extracts and a small set of stabilisers and emulsifiers. At full strength it is crystal clear; add cold water and it clouds to the familiar milky white of pastis de Marseille. That transformation alone makes it more convincing than most AF spirit alternatives. The anise flavour is authentic and forward, with a genuinely herbal, slightly bitter character. It is not a watered-down approximation — this is what it tastes like. Serve it the traditional way: one part Pacific to five parts chilled water, with ice. It contains zero calories, zero sugar, and zero alcohol, so it is a practical choice for anyone who wants the ritual of a pastis aperitif without the rest of it. Available at several UK online retailers and some French import specialists.