Romana Sambuca (75cl, 42%)

Romana Sambuca is an Italian anise liqueur made by the Pallini family in Rome, bottled at 42% in a 75cl bottle. Green anise and star anise are distilled, then elderberry extract is added before maceration and sweetening. The family has made spirits in Rome since 1875 and secured exclusive rights to the Sambuca Romana name in 1964. The nose is pungent, with fennel root, liquorice, anise seed and brown sugar. The palate is velvety and sweet, led by star anise, with pepper, warm spice and a soft, berry-like elderberry note. A little bitterness stops it from cloying. The finish is warm and lingering, with brown sugar, honey and anise.