Digestivi
Galliano
The short answer
Galliano L'Autentico is a vibrant yellow herbal liqueur known for its towering bottle and a complex flavor dominated by vanilla and anise. It contains over 30 herbs and spices, including juniper, yarrow, and lavender.
- Style
- Vanilla-anise liqueur, 30% ABV
- Glass
- Cordial glass or rocks glass
- Strength
- 30%–42.3% Varies by expression
Where it comes from
Created in 1896 in Tuscany, Italy, by distiller Arturo Vaccari, the liqueur was named after an Italian war hero. Its popularity surged internationally during the 1970s cocktail boom, largely due to its use in the Harvey Wallbanger.
What you need
- 30 ml (1 oz) Galliano L'Autentico
- Serving temperature: Neat or chilled
How Larry builds it
- 01
Selection. Ensure you are using Galliano L'Autentico for the traditional high-proof, herbal experience, as other versions exist.
- 02
Service. Pour 30 ml (1 oz) into a small liqueur glass to be sipped slowly as a digestif.
- 03
Cocktail Use. If using in a Harvey Wallbanger, float the Galliano over the top of a Screwdriver (vodka and orange juice).
Larry’s rule: The tallest bottle on the back bar. Impossible to miss, hard to dust.
Variations worth making
Harvey Wallbanger
The most famous Galliano drink, consisting of vodka and orange juice topped with a Galliano float.
Galliano Hot Shot
A popular layered shot consisting of Galliano, hot coffee, and a layer of lightly whipped cream.
Questions people ask
What gives Galliano its color?
The distinct golden-yellow color is achieved through the use of coloring, which in some markets includes tartrazine.
Does it taste like licorice?
It has strong anise and star anise notes, which provide a licorice-like flavor that is well-balanced by a prominent sweet vanilla profile.
Is the bottle always that tall?
Yes, the unique, tapered bottle design was intended to make it stand out on the back bar and has become an iconic feature of the brand.
Is Galliano still made in Italy?
Yes, it continues to be produced in Italy following a complex process of infusion and distillation for its many ingredients.
What to eat with it
Pour it like Larry
The decanters, openers and glasses Larry keeps behind the bar.
Le Chateau Hand-Blown Crystal Wine Decanter with AeratorView on Amazon →
RBT Wine Decanter with Sediment Strainer & AeratorView on Amazon →
Chateau La Derive Swan Decanter Gift SetView on Amazon →
1800ml Lead-Free Crystal Wine Decanter SetView on Amazon →
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Order Galliano with sausage and peppers at the spots on Larry’s lists:
More from Digestivi
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