Licor 43 — Spain's Most Celebrated Liqueur
Licor 43 is one of the world's best-selling and most recognisable liqueurs, beloved for its distinctive golden hue, irresistible vanilla sweetness, and complex citrus character. Crafted from a secret recipe of 43 carefully selected natural ingredients — including Mediterranean citrus fruits, aromatic herbs, and warm spices — it is a true icon of Spanish distilling heritage.
History & Heritage
The story of Licor 43 begins in Cartagena, on the sun-drenched southeastern coast of Spain, where the Zamora family has been producing spirits since 1946. The liqueur's roots, however, stretch back far further — to an ancient Roman recipe discovered in the region, believed to be a precursor to the modern formula. Diego Zamora founded the company that would carry the brand to global prominence, and today the Zamora Company remains family-owned, a rarity in the spirits industry and a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and tradition.
The recipe — a closely guarded secret known only to a handful of family members — has remained unchanged for decades. Each batch is crafted with the same meticulous care, blending 43 botanicals into a liqueur of remarkable consistency and character.
The Region: Cartagena & the Murcia Coast, Spain
Licor 43 is produced in Cartagena, a historic port city in the Region of Murcia on Spain's southeastern Mediterranean coast. This sun-drenched corner of the Iberian Peninsula enjoys a warm, semi-arid Mediterranean climate — long, hot summers, mild winters, and abundant sunshine — conditions that are ideal for cultivating the aromatic citrus fruits and herbs that form the backbone of the liqueur's flavour profile.
The region's rich agricultural heritage, combined with centuries of trade and cultural exchange through its ancient port, has made Murcia a natural home for botanical spirit production. The Mediterranean influence is unmistakable in every sip of Licor 43.
Flavour Profile & Varieties
Licor 43 Original is the flagship expression — a luscious, golden liqueur with aromas of vanilla, citrus zest, and warm spice. On the palate it is sweet and velvety, with layers of vanilla cream, orange peel, and subtle herbal complexity. It is exceptionally versatile, enjoyed neat over ice, in cocktails, or as a dessert ingredient.
The range has expanded to include a number of exciting expressions:
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Licor 43 Original — The classic, with its signature vanilla and citrus character.
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Licor 43 Horchata — A contemporary blend of Licor 43 and traditional Spanish horchata (tiger nut milk), creamy and indulgent.
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Licor 43 Baristo — A coffee liqueur variant combining Licor 43 with cold brew coffee, perfect for espresso martinis.
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Licor 43 Crema — A rich, cream liqueur expression for those who enjoy a more indulgent serve.
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Licor 43 Caramel Cookie (Latest Addition) — The newest expression in the range, this indulgent cream liqueur delivers spiced biscuit, cinnamon, caramel, and vanilla on the nose, with a smooth biscuit flavour, warm cinnamon, and a touch of citrus on the finish. Rich, dark toasted cream with golden nuances — irresistible served over ice, in coffee, or as the star of a decadent dessert cocktail.
Awards & Recognition
Licor 43 has earned widespread acclaim from the international spirits community, consistently recognised for its quality and craftsmanship:
- Multiple Gold Medals at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC)
- Recognised at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition across multiple expressions
- Consistently rated among the world's top-selling liqueurs, with distribution in over 60 countries
- The Zamora Company has received recognition as one of Spain's most respected family-owned spirits producers
How to Enjoy Licor 43
Licor 43 is extraordinarily versatile. Serve it neat or over ice to appreciate its full botanical complexity, or use it as the foundation for classic cocktails such as the Carajillo (Licor 43 with espresso), the 43 Tonic, or a luxurious Licor 43 Sour. It also pairs beautifully with desserts, ice cream, and coffee-based drinks.
Explore our full range of Licor 43 expressions below and discover why this Spanish treasure has captivated spirits lovers around the world.
