Liquorice stick

The Liquorice Stick, also known as the Licorice Stick, is a refreshing highball cocktail originating from Terceira Island in the Azores, Portugal. This distinctive drink typically features a blend of cola and either anisette or absinthe, garnished with a piece of black licorice for an additional burst of flavor.

In Portugal, the traditional recipe calls for anisette or absinthe. However, if you venture into Spain, you'll encounter a variation made with Anis del Mono and cola. Over in Greece, particularly in Thessaloniki, a local twist involves using ouzo instead of anisette. In Italy, the preferred substitute is Sambuca, creating yet another delicious iteration of this cocktail.

The Liquorice Stick made its way to the United States through Portuguese communities in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Since then, it has adapted to various local tastes and goes by different names depending on the region. In Portugal, it's called "pauzinho de alcaçuz" while in Spain, it's referred to as "palito de orozuz."

Whether you adhere to the original recipe or explore one of the international variations, the Liquorice Stick is a delightful drink that promises to please.