Luxardo Sambuca (75cl, 38%)

Luxardo Sambuca is an Italian anise liqueur bottled at 38% in a 75cl bottle. It is made at Torreglia in the Veneto by the Luxardo family, who have produced liqueurs since 1821. Chinese star anise essential oils are infused into neutral spirit, then sweetened with sugar and diluted with volcanic spring water from springs on the Luxardo property. The nose is star anise and black liquorice with fennel seed, white pepper, pine and a hint of coriander. The palate is velvety and sweet, with the liquorice deepening and coriander bringing a citrus lift. The finish is clean and warming, with lingering liquorice and gentle pepper.