5 Essential Liqueur Varieties You Need to Know.
When it comes to booze, liqueur is a unique spirit type that requires its own unique expertise to fully appreciate. Liqueurs have been around for centuries, but many modern-day drinkers are unfamiliar with their alluring flavors, aromas, and unique, complex textures. From light and sweet Anisette to herbal and throat-warming Sambuca, here are five essential liqueurs you need to know.
First on the list is Grand Marnier. Grand Marnier is an orange-flavored liqueur from France made from ultra-premium Cognac, orange peel, and sugar. It has a robust, delightful aroma, with flavors of orange and Cognac that linger on the tongue for a few moments before fading. Its acerbic sweetness pairs wonderfully with many dishes, whether savory or sweet.
The next liqueur to know is Benedictine. Created in the Benedictine monastery in France in the 1500s, this liqueur is a mixture of 27 plants, herbs, and spices. It has a distinctively smooth and calming character, with a complex herbal flavor. It’s great in cocktails, whether on its own or as the base of a classic Sazerac, and pairs wonderfully with traditional French dishes.
Anisette is a lighter, less herbal liqueur made with aniseeds, giving it a unique sweet and slightly licorice-like quality. It’s great as an aperitif, or with tonic water to create a light and refreshing summer drink. It also pairs nicely with desserts such as crème brulee and ice creams.
Grappa is an Italian brandy distilled from the fermented juice left over from making wine. It is traditionally drunk as a digestive after meals. It has a distinctively warming character and flavors of raisins, vanilla, plums, and oak, with an alcohol content of between 35 and 60%. For a delightful after-dinner tipple, pair it with dark chocolate or cigar.
Last but not least is Sambuca, perhaps Italy’s best-known liqueur. Sambuca is made from aniseeds, giving it a sweet and herbal flavor, and its distinctively throat-warming character. It is usually served as an aperitif, neat or with coffee beans or ice, although it can be found in a wide range of traditional Italian cocktails.
Whatever your preference in liqueur, these five essential varieties are sure to broaden your palate and provide you with a unique drinking experience. Whether it be Grand Marnier, Benedictine, Anisette, Grappa, or Sambuca, these liqueurs represent a harmonic and delightful way to enjoy an evening. Salute!