A cocktail that surprises with its deep black colour and intense anise aroma. The Black Beauty combines the sharp clarity of Vodka with the sweet-bitter spice of black Sambuca. Perfect for those who like their drinks bold and aromatic – without frills, but with a touch of elegance thanks to the black olive garnish. Ideal as a digestif or an unusual start to an evening of contrasts.
And this is what you need for the Black Beauty
4 cl Vodka
2 cl black Sambuca
Ice cubes
1 black olive (for garnishing)
The secret to success
The trick lies in shaking: Sambuca tends to mix with Vodka without truly emulsifying. If you let the shaker rest briefly after shaking (about 3 seconds), the Sambuca will settle slightly and create a beautiful layering effect when poured into the glass. Don’t just drop the olive in – it should make a visual impact and provide a salty contrast to the sweet anise with the first sip. For an even more intense experience, you can briefly express some lemon zest over the olive beforehand to enhance the aroma.
Variations
- Black Beauty Smoky — Replace 1 cl Vodka with 1 cl smoky Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Stir instead of shaking to keep the texture smooth.
- Black Beauty Herbal — Add 2 fresh basil leaves and shake them lightly before straining. The leaves give a fresh, green note.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use white Sambuca?
Yes, but the drink loses its characteristic colour and some of its spicy depth. Black Sambuca contains caramel and spices that give the Black Beauty its typical flavour.
Why strain twice?
Straining once often lets small ice particles through, which dilute the drink. Straining twice (with a fine sieve) ensures a clear, smooth texture.
Would a lemon twist work as a garnish?
No – the citrus would overpower the anise aroma. The olive is the classic contrast here, but a thin slice of dried fig or a coffee bean also works.
