Sahara: An Exclusively Moroccan Spirit
After over three years of dedicated research and development, the unique spirit Sahara is now available in the UK. Omar Oualili, Founder at Sahara explains that this product foremost celebrates Moroccan heritage and culture. The beverage draws upon the core of Morocco’s diverse nature, capturing the essence of its people, culture and history. It’s a tribute to the resilience of generations past, who have safeguarded the secrets of Mahia. In Arabic, Mahia is known as the “Water of Life.”
Though Mahia is steeped in the rich tapestry of Judeo-Moroccan culture, its recent history has seen it veer down a different path, becoming entangled with illegal and informal alcohol production in Morocco. Determined to restore its rightful place, Sahara emerges as the beacon of change—a premium Mahia with a twist that sets it apart.
What does it taste like?
The original recipe is inspired by Mahia, and Sahara is a fig-based spirit. There is a small hint of aniseed to the drink, which adds a distinct herbal flavour without being cloying. The herbal and spice-like Mahia taste however, is contrasted by a more British arrangement of flavour. Apricots, almonds, and honey balance the drink as well to provide a sweeter, fruitier experience, but one that maintains a dry finish on the palate. At 40% volume, it also packs a nice punch without being too alcohol forward, making it a fantastic component in cocktail making and mixology.
Sahara is meticulously produced in small batches, with organically sourced ingredients and the pristine waters of Royal Deeside.
Cocktails at The Franklin
Sahara officially launched in May, at an exclusive event with 80 guests at The Franklin – a five star boutique hotel in Knightsbridge, London. Following the launch, Sahara is now exclusively available in the UK; its next phase will involve establishing a UK-wide distribution network to reach even more people.
The Franklin Bar run by Salvatore Maggio is the first hotel bar to adopt Sahara, and they have since incorporated the spirit into their cocktail menu. The Sahara Martini captures the sweet fig flavours of the drink. Garnished with an olive, the martini has herbal notes of dry vermouth that blend so well with Sahara.
Another cocktail is the Marrakech Spice. It is a drink that is on the more sour side – a mix of Sahara, lemon juice, and Angostura bitters poured into a chilled glass and topped off with ginger beer. The garnish is a vibrant sprig of rosemary which contrasts with the sunset orange of the drink.
A dinner experience at The Franklin Restaurant
Home of modern Piedmont cuisine, Michelin-star Chef Alfredo Russo and Roberto Roncolato are cooking up stunning Italian dishes at The Franklin Restaurant. With seats only for 30 diners, the setting of the restaurant is truly a warm and intimate one. The decor features personal grey velvet, with Venetian églomisé mirrors covering the walls, lending to a sophisticated yet close atmosphere.
The Franklin Restaurant has a focused brilliantly Italian menu with elegant twists like a Jerusalem artichoke crème brûlée with Parmigiano Reggiano and artichoke salad. Bold yet elegant flavours. The chargrilled corn-fed chicken is also not to be missed with a new version of the dish coming soon.
The Sahara Journey
Sahara brings a unique element of culture and sophistication it brings to the UK. The spirit is so versatile and is great for sipping or mixing into cocktails. We cannot wait to see the journey of Sahara.
to discover more, visit drinksahara.com
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All Images Courtesy of Sahara on Instagram.