Molinari Sambuca Extra 70cl, 40%

A highly popular anise-flavoured liqueur, Molinari Sambuca Extra was first produced in 1945 by Angelo Molinari. Following this, it became incredibly popular in Italy, with many saying it helped to popularise Sambuca in the country.

• Flavor Profile: It offers a rich, velvety, and sweet taste with dominant notes of star anise, complemented by hints of licorice, elderflowers, and other aromatic herbs.
• Ingredients: The primary ingredients are essential oils extracted through the steam distillation of star anise seeds, high-quality alcohol, and sugar.
• Appearance: It is typically a crystal-clear white liqueur.
• Alcohol Content: The standard Molinari Sambuca Extra has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of around 42%.
• Traditional Role: It is widely consumed in Italy and elsewhere as a classic digestivo (after-dinner drink) to aid digestion. 

• Neat or On the Rocks: Served straight up or with ice to appreciate its full aromatic profile.
• “Con la Mosca” (With the Fly): The classic Italian serving ritual involves adding three roasted coffee beans to the glass, which symbolize health, wealth, and happiness. The beans also enhance the liqueur’s organoleptic profile.
• Flambé: In a more dramatic preparation, the sambuca is served with coffee beans and briefly set aflame to warm the liquid and release more aromas.
• With Coffee: It can be added to or served alongside espresso as a “caffè corretto” (corrected coffee), sharing many aromatic hints.
• As a Long Drink/Cocktail Ingredient: It mixes well with ice-cold water (which causes it to turn cloudy, a phenomenon known as the ouzo effect) and is a popular ingredient in various cocktails where a bold anise note is desired.