Licor 43, or Cuarenta Y (i) Tres (Spanish and Papiamentu for "43"), is a bright yellow Spanish liqueur. It is made from citrus and fruit juices, flavored with vanilla and other aromatic herbs and spices, in total 43 different ingredients (hence the name).
This has a gutsy edge, with a mix of steeped fig, boysenberry and blackberry fruit still wrestling with ganache and roasted apple wood notes. A strong, charcoal-coated spine courses through the finish, with waves of tobacco and singed iron echoing. Syrah....
The aroma is bright, mild and lime-lollipop sweet, although the flavor is more herbal, with hints of mint and anise, and a pronounced licorice finish and alcohol sting. Thick, syrupy and tongue-coating.
Nose: Bright citrus notes of bergamot and lemon zest hit first, followed by a gentle floral bouquet reminiscent of chamomile and lavender. Subtle hints of rose petals and fresh herbs like thyme round out the aroma.
Palate: Smooth and silky texture carries flavors of candied citrus peel, particularly bergamot orange. Light honey sweetness balances gentle bitter notes. Herbal touches of gentian and melissa leaf add complexity. A slight spiciness reminiscent of white pepper appears mid-palate.
Finish: Medium-long finish with lingering citrus oils and a pleasant bittersweet quality. Floral notes reemerge alongside a subtle woody character. The finish is clean and refreshing, leaving a slight tingle on the tongue.