Sambuca Is the Unsung Hero of Your Liquor Cabinet with These 3 Cocktails

Updated Apr 17, 2026 · 2 min read

The Sambuca is one of the most well-known after-dinner drinks. The anise-flavored liqueur, which is typically colorless, is served neat or with water. It is also occasionally serve.

Here are three inventive cocktails that highlight the versatility of Sambuca—specifically Luxardo's version—beyond just shots:

Sambuca Sazerac is easy.

Using Sambuca to enhance the anise flavor, this cocktail is a twist on the traditional Sazerac.

**Guidelines**:

1. In an ice-filled mixing glass, mix:

Baker's or another overproof bourbon, two ounces

1 ounce of Sambuca

Angostura bitters, four dashes

2. Stir until chilled thoroughly.

3. Strain over ice into a rocks glass.

4. Add two large lemon peel twists as a garnish, sprinkling the oils over the beverage.

Intermediate: Sambuca 75

This cocktail blends the anise notes of Sambuca with sparkling wine, creating a refreshing take on the French 75.

**Guidelines**:

1. In an ice-filled cocktail shaker, mix:

1 oz Sambuca

  - 0.5 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice

0.25 oz simple syrup

2. Pour into a champagne flute after giving it a good shake.

3. Garnish with a long, skinny lemon peel.

4. Drizzle 4 ounces of sparkling wine over it. Adding a brandied cherry is optional.

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Advanced: Sambuca Summer

With a fresh and herbal twist, this cocktail showcases the interaction between sambaca and silver tequila.

**Instructions**:

1. In a cocktail shaker with ice, combine:

2 oz silver tequila (e.g., Patrón Roca Silver)

1 oz. freshly squeezed lime juice

  - 0.75 oz Sambuca

0.25 oz agave syrup (dissolve equal parts agave in hot water)

(Optional) 2 dashes orange bitters

2. Give it a good shake, then strain into a tall glass with newly added ice.

3. Pour on a half-ounce of soda water.

4. Add wedges of lime as a garnish.

Sambuca is transformed into delightful drinks that are suitable for a variety of occasions by these cocktails. Enjoy trying out different flavors!