Sambuca�is a sweetened�anise-flavored�liqueur, originating from Italy. It is comparable to various other anise-based spirits including�raki�from Turkey,�pastis�from France and�arak�from the Middle East.  Sambuca is produced by combining a neutral base alcohol from either grain or molasses with essential oils extracted via steam distillation from star anise. It may include various other botanicals with elderflower, liquorice and fennel the most common.�Black sambuca is predominantly infused with anise and liquorice whilst white sambuca is produced from star anise. It�also contains a considerable amount of sugar, up to 350 grams per litre.