Sicilian Spirits Producer Averna introduced its first line of Sambucas in March, 2008. The varieties are Sambuca, Anice Stellato, Sambuca alla Liquirizia, and Sambuca agli Agrumi. Team Abbondanza has had the unique pleasure of “experiencing” these delicious sambucas from Averna. We liked and immediately took note of Averna’s bottle which revealed lucidity as clear as water. (We surmised that this, coupled with Averna’s 140 year history in Mediterranean tradition, may explain the Mermaid and the Illusionary Crystal Moon design on the label.)

Upon opening the bottle, the first thing we noticed was residual sugar on the bottle’s nose: our first indication of sweetness. Then, we gave it a pour.

Body: The Sambuca was full bodied and poured like a nectar. It has a sleekness to it which we thoroughly enjoyed.

Fragrance: Sweet and mildly perfumed with powerful impressions of Star Anise and Black Licorice.

Taste: The Sambuca coated the mouth like a silky-smooth sheet of satin. The sweetness of Star Anise was the first burst on the tongue with those strong notes of black licorice on the finish.

Conclusion: We feel that Averna’s Sambuca isn’t just a refreshing Sicilian Spirit - it captures Sicily’s soul. Anything but shallow, this rich, satiny, fragrant, liqueur has an essence that holds up well on its own and enough presence to retain its distinctive, lovely flavor in Espresso.

Product: Averna Sambuca (Anice Stellato)
Packaging: 750ml bottle, 42% Alcohol, 100% Star Anise
Website: www.Averna.it
Price: Approximately $28.99 USD
Availability: Wherever fine liquors are sold.

by Nancy S. Mure