Antioqueno Aguardient Blue Cap

Antioqueño Aguardiente Blue Cap belongs to the Colombian aguardiente tradition. Aguardientes in this style are clear, anise-driven spirits, usually lightly sweetened and bottled well below the strength of a London dry gin or a blanco tequila. The listing doesn't give an ABV, so check the label for the exact strength. Expect a clean, translucent liquid with a pronounced aniseed nose, similar to a milder, drier cousin of Greek ouzo or Turkish raki, though without the heavy louching you get when those are watered down. On the palate, styles like this typically open with sweet licorice and a faint herbal note, then finish short and dry. Sweetness is usually modest and well below that of a true cordial. The spirit has a bright, direct character, and the anise stays in front from start to finish. In Colombia, aguardiente is mostly a social spirit. It is poured as small shots, often passed around a table and sipped slowly over a meal or a long conversation. Serve it neat from a small glass, well chilled from the fridge or freezer, which tightens the anise and takes the edge off the alcohol. Over a large cube of ice in a rocks glass, it softens and opens up. A tall serve with soda water and a wedge of lime gives a long, refreshing drink that keeps the anise recognizable. You can also use it as a modifier in place of a splash of absinthe or pastis. A teaspoon or two will rinse a glass or add licorice depth to a citrus sour. At the table, the chilled spirit goes well with fried and salty food. Empanadas, chicharrón, arepas with cheese and grilled meats are the classic Colombian matches, and the anise cuts through the richness.