Enrico Toro Centuca 72 Liqueur (75cl, 38%)

Centuca 72 is an herbal anise liqueur from Enrico Toro of Tocco da Casauria in Abruzzo, bottled at 38% ABV. It follows an old local habit of mixing sambuca with Centerba, the region's herbal digestivo. Steam-distilled star anise, green anise and fennel make the sambuca, which is then blended with Centerba 72, a base of elderflower and hand-picked mountain herbs. The Centerba character stays in place while the anise rounds the edges. The texture is velvety with a slight oiliness. Sweet star anise and fennel lead, with the herbs beneath, and it finishes dry and fresh. It is traditionally served with a coffee bean in the glass.