The Bar at Downtown Repalone is pleased to announce an irregular blog service – “Liquor for Lightweights.” Written by yours truly, who, as you may know, is easily intoxicated by a ½ bottle of domestic beer. The idea came about this weekend as Proprietor John restocked the bar. The pretty, shimmering Sambuca bottle caught my eye:
Sambuca – Although the etymology is a little cloudy*, the common “White Sambuca” variety is typically clear and, with a proof between 76 and 80, can be quickly set a-flame. (Call the Insurance Adjuster!) White Sambuca is easily differentiated from its siblings who flaunt black, blue, green, gold and red hues. Brands include: Galliano®, Luxardo®, Molinari®, Opal Nera®, Romana®, and Sambuca di Amore®.
An Italian liqueur, it is commonly served with coffee beans as “Sambuca con mosca” (translated: Sambuca with flies). Three floating coffee beans, celebrating health, wealth and happiness serve as floating ornaments, but can be chewed to enhance the anise taste and aroma. Our own dear Proprietor tells me that roasted coffee beans can also be served on a side plate, with the number of beans used to indicate the guest’s social position. More beans equals higher esteem. How many beans will you be served?
Plenty of additional information can be retrieved through traditional means: Google, Wikipedia, and drunken conversation. However, I do want to share a fun little dance number with you. Perhaps it will find its way into DJ Skippy’s line-up. Personally, I love the rhyming: “We went to the bar for a Sambuca…..you gave me your numba…..”
*[Top producer Molinari says it comes from Zammut, the Arabic word for an anise-flavored drink, the high brow Oxford English Dictionary places the word’s root in the Latin sambūc-us, which means "elderberry,” and then there’s a “Sambuq,” a type of Arabic ship which may have imported the drink to European shores]
A phenomenal resort destination! To all who come to this happy place, welcome. Downtown Repalone is YOUR bar! "All I Wanted Was a Sink!"