Over 6,400 miles away from Chattanooga lies the origin of the mother of all spirits: Arak. This ancient beverage is made from distilled grapes and infused with anise seeds. Some might be familiar with its flavor profile, which is imbued with a kick of black licorice similar to Greek ouzo or French absinthe. But these better-known liquors all are derived from arak, a spirit that comes from the Levant — or the eastern Mediterranean region that includes Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, Israel and Jordan. However, you don't need to travel to the cradle of civilization to try this ancient beverage — you can, in fact, find it at the bar at Calliope right here in Chattanooga. Read Lyric's full story at the link in our bio. Photo 1 / Staff photo by Lyric Lewin / Two glasses of arak at Calliope. Photo 2 / Staff photo by Lyric Lewin / An Arabian Nights cocktail sits on a table at Calliope. Co-owner and beverage director Raven Humphrey created this cocktail with arak. Photo 3 / Staff photo by Lyr...