Herb liqueur, also known as herbal liqueur, is a category of liqueurs that are infused or flavored with various herbs and botanicals. These liqueurs are often made by macerating or distilling a combination of herbs, spices, flowers, and other botanicals in a base spirit, usually brandy or neutral grain alcohol. The resulting liqueur is characterized by its herbal and often complex flavor profile.
One of the most well-known examples of herb liqueur is Chartreuse, a monastic liqueur that has been produced by Carthusian monks since the 18th century. Chartreuse is made using a secret recipe that includes over 130 different herbs and botanicals. It has a unique and intense flavor that is both herbal and slightly sweet. The process of making Chartreuse is a closely guarded secret, known only to a select few monks who are responsible for its production.
Another popular herb liqueur is Sambuca, an Italian liqueur that is flavored with anise and other herbs. Sambuca is often enjoyed as a digestif and is commonly served with three coffee beans, which are said to represent health, wealth, and happiness. It has a strong licorice flavor and is often consumed neat or used as an ingredient in cocktails.
Jagermeister is another well-known herb liqueur that has gained a cult following. It is made with a blend of 56 different herbs, fruits, roots, and spices, and is aged in oak barrels for a period of time. Jagermeister has a strong and complex flavor profile, with notes of licorice, citrus, and herbs. It is often enjoyed as a shot or used as a mixer in cocktails.
Strega, a liqueur from Italy, is also worth mentioning. It is made with a blend of over 70 different herbs and spices, including saffron, which gives it a distinctive yellow color. Strega has a sweet and herbal flavor profile, with hints of vanilla and mint. It is often enjoyed neat or used as an ingredient in cocktails.
Kummel is an herb liqueur that originated in Holland and is flavored with caraway, cumin, and fennel. It has a strong and distinct flavor profile that is both savory and slightly sweet. Kummel is often enjoyed as a digestif and is sometimes used in cooking as well.
One of the newer additions to the herb liqueur category is Tarquin's Cornish Pastis, produced in Cornwall, England. It is made with a blend of botanicals, including gorse flowers, wild fennel, and verbena, which gives it a unique and refreshing flavor profile. Tarquin's Cornish Pastis is often enjoyed over ice or used as a base for cocktails.
Herb liqueurs are a diverse and fascinating category of spirits that offer a wide range of flavors and experiences. Whether you prefer the complex and secretive recipes of monastic liqueurs like Chartreuse, the bold and intense flavors of Jagermeister, or the unique and refreshing taste of Tarquin's Cornish Pastis, there is an herb liqueur out there to suit every palate.