UK: Antica Absinthe Sambuca to launch

UK distributor Hi-Spirits is to be the first to launch an absinthe-flavoured sambuca under the Antica brand.

The new 38% spirit is a combination of Italian Sambuca and botanicals that give absinthe its flavour - wormwood, green anise and fennel. Available from September, Antica Absinthe joins Antica Classic and the 11 existing flavoured variants.

Jeremy Hill, chairman of Hi-Spirits, said: “Absinthe is an iconic spirit, but it also has a reputation which many people find daunting. By combining the flavours of absinthe with Antica Sambuca we’ve created a far more accessible spirit – it’s absinthe with a safety net. We’re launching to coincide with the start of the new university year, and we’re already getting strong interest from operators of student venues and town centre bars."

Antica is made by distiller Nicola del Toso at the family-owned Antiche distillery, located between Venice and the Dolomite mountains.

Hi-Spirits is supporting Antica Absinthe with POS and a range of suggested serves including a long drink combing the new variety with lemonade over ice.

Along with Antica Classic Sambuca, the range also includes Amaretto, Apple, Banana, Liquorice, Cherry, Chilli, Coffee, Mandarin, Orange & Mango, Raspberry and Vanilla flavours.

All Antica varieties include Hi-Spirits’ Pro-Pour dispense technology for the accurate pouring of shots. Visit www.hi-spirits.com for more information.