Strega (liqueur)

Strega is a traditional Italian herbal liqueur produced since 1860 by the S. A. Distilleria Liquore Strega in Benevento, Campania, Italy. Its distinctive yellow color comes from the presence of saffron, one of approximately 70 herbal ingredients used in its production.

History

Strega was created by Giuseppe Alberti, who named it after the legends of witchcraft (strega translates to witch in Italian) that are associated with Benevento. According to the legend, witches gathered in the city of Benevento to perform their rites, and the liqueur was used in their rituals.

Production

Strega is produced using a proprietary process that includes infusion, distillation, and aging. The ingredients, which include mint, fennel, and saffron, are infused in alcohol before being distilled. The resulting liqueur is then aged in ash barrels to develop its complex flavor and characteristic yellow color.

Taste and Use

Strega is known for its distinctive sweet and herbal flavor, with notes of mint and fennel. It is often consumed straight as a digestif, but it can also be used in a variety of cocktails and desserts. In Italy, it is commonly used in the preparation of the traditional Easter dessert, Pastiera.

In Popular Culture

Strega has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature and film. Notably, it is mentioned in the novel The Godfather by Mario Puzo, and it appears in the film The Talented Mr. Ripley.

See Also

• List of Italian liqueurs
• Digestif
• Herbal liqueur