Digestivi
Strega
The short answer
Strega is a yellow Italian herbal liqueur from Benevento in Campania, coloured with saffron. It is sweet, minty and herbal, served chilled after dinner.
- Style
- Saffron-yellow herbal liqueur, 40% ABV
- Glass
- Small liqueur glass
- Strength
- About 40% ABV
Where it comes from
Strega means "witch", a nod to Benevento's old folklore about witches. The liqueur is made from a blend of herbs and spices, with saffron giving its yellow colour.
What you need
- 1 oz (30 ml) Strega, chilled
How Larry builds it
- 01
Chill. Keep the bottle in the fridge or pour over a little ice.
- 02
Sip. Small pours — it is strong and sweet.
- 03
Or add to coffee. A splash in espresso, the caffè corretto way.
Larry’s rule: 'Strega' means witch. Legend says two people who share a glass will marry.
Variations worth making
Strega and tonic
Over ice with tonic and a lemon twist.
Over gelato
A spoonful poured over vanilla gelato.
Questions people ask
What does Strega taste like?
Sweet and herbal, with mint, fennel-like and floral notes.
Why is Strega yellow?
Saffron is one of its ingredients and gives it the colour.
What does Strega mean?
"Witch" in Italian — tied to folklore from Benevento, where it is made.
How do you serve Strega?
Chilled in a small glass after dinner, in coffee, or over gelato.
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 Strega with sausage and peppers at the spots on Larry’s lists:
More from Digestivi
← All 159 Italian drinksQuoting or citing this drink? Credit “Uncle Larry Adventures” and link to https://unclelarryadventures.com/beverages/strega.