Licor 43, often touted as the world's leading Spanish liqueur, has been making waves in the spirits realm. Despite the relatively sparse landscape of Spanish liqueurs, the rich golden-honey hued Licor 43 has established itself as a global favourite, thanks to its unique blend of 43 carefully selected ingredients. Among these botanicals are a symphony of herbs, spices, citrus, and the star of the show, vanilla.
Yup, you read that right – Licor 43 belongs to the coveted category of vanilla liqueurs, a league inhabited by the likes of Tuaca, making it a perfect companion for coffee and cream-based cocktails.
A Melange of Scents and Flavours
Upon first encountering Licor 43, its identity as a vanilla liqueur becomes unmistakably clear. The aroma is an immediate burst of sweetness, dominated by the luscious fragrance of whole vanilla beans and the allure of vanilla extract. As you delve deeper, subtle hints of herbs and a medley of baking spices dance in and out of the olfactory experience, all complemented by a touch of zesty citrus peel. It's a captivating symphony of scents that sets the stage for what's to come.
A Palate Pleaser
The palate of Licor 43 is a delightful contradiction to its syrupy aroma. It's sweet, but not cloyingly so, and certainly not gummy. Instead, it offers light and buttery vanilla notes, harmoniously intertwined with a subtle kick of ginger, clove, and the brightness of lemon zest.
In the initial sips, it's almost as if you're indulging in a lemon pound cake, but as you journey towards the finish, a newfound complexity emerges. The finale is refreshingly clean and vibrant.
Versatility Unleashed
Licor 43 stands as a testament to versatility, a liqueur enriched with an ensemble of 43 botanicals, including spices, herbs, roots, and citrus. While it's no secret that Licor 43 is a match made in heaven with coffee, a cherished combination in Mexico, its adaptability extends far beyond. This liqueur proves to be a valuable asset in crafting an array of cocktails, adding layers of flavour that elevate the drinking experience.
An Intriguing Profile
Classified as a liqueur, Licor 43 is produced by Diego Zamora S.A. in Cartagena, Spain, boasting an alcohol by volume of 31%. It undergoes a patient aging process of 6 to 9 months in stainless steel tanks, allowing its myriad flavours to mature and harmonize.
Licor 43 invites you to savour its multifaceted character – whether sipped neat or over ice as a soothing digestif, or embraced as a spirited addition to your cocktail adventures, there's a world of flavour waiting to be explored, and its 43 botanicals ensure that every sip is a journey in itself.
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Words by AW.
Photo courtesy of Licor 43.