For many, the word "licorice" conjures the image of a chewy red rope or a classic black twist. However, this ancient confection, rooted in the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra), offers an incredible diversity of flavor and form that varies significantly across continents. Choosing the 'best' is a matter of personal preference, and this guide will help you navigate the rich landscape of this unique candy.
The Great Licorice Divide: Black vs. Red
When most people start their licorice journey, they begin by distinguishing between black and red licorice. The core difference lies in the flavor source. True black licorice is made with extract from the licorice root, which provides its distinctive, earthy, and bittersweet flavor. Many commercial red varieties, on the other hand, contain no real licorice root at all. Instead, they are fruit-flavored candies that mimic the texture of licorice twists.
- Black Licorice: The purist's choice. It is known for its deep, complex flavor that can be intensely sweet, salty, or herbal, depending on the variety. It is common throughout Europe, especially in Scandinavian countries and the Netherlands.
- Red Licorice: A gateway candy for many, this is a fruity confection, most often flavored with strawberry, cherry, or raspberry. It offers a chewy texture without the polarizing taste of true licorice root, making it a popular choice in North America.
A Tour of Global Licorice Styles
The world of licorice is not limited to just two colors. From salty Scandinavian salmiakki to soft Australian twists, there is a regional variation for every palate.
- Dutch Drop: The Netherlands is a hub for licorice enthusiasts, offering a staggering variety of 'drop'. Styles range from sweet (
zoete drop) and salty (zoute drop) to double salty (dubbel zoute), honey-flavored, and even mentholated mint licorice. Many are gluten and gelatin-free, appealing to specialty diet consumers. - Scandinavian Salmiakki: This is a truly unique type of salty licorice, flavored with ammonium chloride, which gives it a sharp, pungent taste that requires an acquired palate. It is a staple candy in countries like Finland and Sweden.
- Australian Style: Known for its soft, chewy texture and rich flavor, Australian-style licorice is a popular export. It is often described as more fruity and less harsh than European black varieties, and is available in both black and red. Brands like Darrell Lea and Wiley Wallaby are prominent examples.
- Italian Style: Companies like Amarelli from Calabria are world-renowned for their gourmet licorice, which is often sold in small, intensely-flavored lozenges. Italian licorice typically has a purer, more concentrated flavor, reflecting a long history of production.
- English Allsorts: These colorful, assorted candies are a playful blend of licorice, sugar paste, and coconut flavor. They are a classic and nostalgic treat for many.
Comparing Notable Licorice Brands
Choosing the best licorice often comes down to finding the brand that matches your preferred flavor profile and texture. Below is a comparison of some of the most respected brands in the market today.
| Brand | Origin | Key Style | Flavor Profile | Texture | Price Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kouvolan Lakritsi | Finland | Salty/Sweet Black | Traditional, deep licorice flavor with varying salt levels. Intense and pure. | Chewy and dense. | Higher-end / Artisan |
| Lakrids by Bülow | Denmark | Gourmet Coated | Sweet or salty licorice coated in chocolate and other unique flavors. Innovative combinations. | Chewy center with a hard, smooth outer shell. | Premium / Gourmet |
| Amarelli | Italy | Pure Black | Intense, concentrated licorice flavor from natural root extract. | Hard, with a slow melt. | Premium / Specialty |
| Panda Licorice | Finland | Soft Black | Mild, soft, and slightly sweet flavor. A popular, accessible entry point for black licorice. | Exceptionally soft and chewy. | Mid-range |
| Wiley Wallaby | Australia | Soft Red/Black | Soft, fruity flavors (red) and a smooth, classic taste (black). Great for those who prefer a softer bite. | Very soft and easy to chew. | Mid-range |
| Red Vines | USA | Fruity (Red) | Sweet, classic fruit flavor, often strawberry. Iconic and widely available. | Firmer and waxier than soft Australian types. | Budget / Mainstream |
| Klepper & Klepper | Netherlands | Black (Gluten-free) | Specializes in high-quality, gluten-free licorice with both sweet and salty varieties. Uses authentic ingredients. | Varies by style; known for quality texture. | Mid-range to Premium |
Is Licorice Good For You? The Hidden Dangers
While licorice root has a long history in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and other properties, excessive consumption of real black licorice can pose health risks. This is due to the compound glycyrrhizin, which can cause the body to retain salt and lose potassium, potentially leading to increased blood pressure, heart rhythm abnormalities, and muscle weakness. Individuals with pre-existing conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney disease should be especially cautious. Most red licorice does not contain glycyrrhizin, so these risks are specific to true black licorice products.
How to Choose Your Perfect Licorice
Finding the 'best' licorice is a personal quest. To begin, consider what you want from the experience.
For the curious beginner
If you're new to the world of licorice, start with a mild black licorice like Panda. Its soft texture and subtle flavor offer a gentle introduction to the category without the intensity of a salty Scandinavian variety. Alternatively, if the anise flavor is not for you, an Australian red licorice from Wiley Wallaby is a popular, fruity starting point.
For the experienced enthusiast
If you're already a fan of bold flavors, seek out Dutch or Scandinavian imports. Experiment with different varieties from companies like Kouvolan Lakritsi or Klepper & Klepper to find your ideal balance of sweet, salty, and herbal notes.
For the health-conscious consumer
For those concerned about the health effects of glycyrrhizin, consider red licorice varieties or look for deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) products, which remove the problematic compound. As always, consume in moderation and consult a doctor if you have health concerns or are taking medications that may interact with licorice.
Conclusion: The Best Licorice is a Personal Preference
Ultimately, there is no single "best" licorice. The vast world of this confectionery offers something for everyone, from the simple, fruity chew of a Red Vine to the complex, salty punch of a Finnish salmiakki. The best licorice is the one that best suits your palate, and the true joy lies in the exploration. Whether you favor a soft, mild twist or a hard, intensely flavored lozenge, the perfect licorice is waiting to be discovered.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Excessive consumption of real black licorice can be dangerous, especially for those with certain health conditions. Always consume in moderation.
Outbound Link: To explore a wide variety of licorice options and discover new flavors, consider visiting Liquorice Heaven, a well-known retailer offering a diverse selection from around the world.
