Columbus Day Cocktails: For the Italian in You

On Columbus Day, many Americans take the day to remember Christopher Columbus's landmark arrival to the "New World."

For Italian-Americans, Columbus Day is particularly important as it is a time to celebrate Italian heritage. Given the number of parades and parties, what better way to liven the celebration than with a fine liqueur, straight from Italia itself?

The top-selling spirit in Italy, Molinari Sambuca Extra, is a sweet and strong drink that makes the perfect addition to any Columbus Day festa.

A true product of Italian heritage, Molinari Sambuca Extra is made from a closely guarded, secret formula that has been passed down through the Molinari family from generation to generation.

This anise-based liqueur can be consumed as an accompaniment to other beverages or straight up in a small snifter topped with three coffee beans, which serve as symbols of health, happiness and prosperity.

Sambuca has been an Italian family tradition; make it part of your own family's Columbus Day celebrations with these delicious cocktails.

Basilicum Molinari

2 oz. Molinari Sambuca Extra

1 oz. lemon juice

1 1/2 oz. sparkling water

Granny Smith apple

Fresh basil (12 leaves)

Fresh ginger

Directions: Muddle all the ingredients in the cocktail shaker and then add Molinari Sambuca Extra and shake well with crushed ice. Filter twice, pour into the margarita glass and fill with sparkling water.

Viva Italia

1/2 oz. mint flavored vodka

1/2 oz. Molinari Sambuca Extra

1 oz. whisky cream

Directions: Gently pour into the glass the ingredients - following the order above - in order to obtain three different and well defined layers.

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