Yes, anise-flavored liquors like anisette, pastis, ouzo, and sambuca can be consumed straight, though their intense licorice flavor profile is exceptionally potent. In many traditional Mediterranean cultures, anise spirits are rarely consumed neat; instead, they are served over crushed ice or diluted with cold water. This dilution causes the essential oils to precipitate, turning the clear liquid into a milky, refreshing louche drink ideal as an aperitif.