The most iconic Sambuca in the world. There's no substitute! On the smell, the first and only aroma is licorice; it is not overpowering, but welcoming. When it hits the front of the tongue, it is very soft, (especially for 40% ABV) and as it washes over, the licorice taste intensifies. As it moves to the back of the mouth and on the palate, one gets the aromatic influence of anise herbiness. Production: the color comes from the witch elder bush after grain neutral spirits are infused with essential oils, licorice, star anise, and elderberries.