Licor 43 Original

LICOR 43 Original is a liqueur, and styles like it are usually sweet and led by vanilla, with citrus and spice behind. Expect a golden, syrupy pour with an aroma of vanilla and orange peel. The palate is typically soft and rounded, with a sweetness that tapers into light citrus. The reference text calls it a dairy or egg liqueur, but this category of product is generally not cream-based, so don't expect a thick, milky texture. Its best-known use is the Carajillo. Pour a measure of the liqueur over ice, then add a freshly pulled shot of espresso on top. The coffee's bitterness balances the sweetness, and the layers look good in a short glass. For a simpler serve, pour it neat over a few large ice cubes in a rocks glass. A strip of orange peel lifts the citrus side, and a cinnamon stick suits the spiced notes. Chilling the bottle first makes it a little less sweet on the palate. It also works as an ingredient. A splash in a White Russian-style drink or an espresso martini adds vanilla in place of a separate syrup. Mixed with cold milk over ice, it makes a dessert-style long drink. A small pour over vanilla ice cream, flan or a plain sponge cake is an easy way to use it without making a cocktail. Because the liqueur is already sweet, cut back or leave out any other sugar in the recipe. A bottle of a sweet liqueur like this should keep at cool room temperature, away from direct light. Once opened, keep the cap tight so the aroma doesn't fade.