What is a strong Italian spirit based on herbs and spices?

You're likely thinking of Amaro.

Amaro is an Italian liqueur that means "bitter" in Italian. It's made with a base of alcohol, herbs, spices, and sometimes fruit. The herbs and spices used can vary widely, giving each Amaro a unique flavor profile.

Here are some popular examples of Amaro:

* Campari: This bright red liqueur is known for its bitter, citrusy, and slightly sweet flavor. It's often used in cocktails like the Negroni.

* Aperol: Similar to Campari, Aperol is a bittersweet liqueur with a vibrant orange color. It's known for its refreshing taste and is popular in the Aperol Spritz cocktail.

* Fernet Branca: This dark, bitter liqueur has a strong, pungent flavor with notes of herbs, spices, and coffee. It's often enjoyed neat or with soda water.

These are just a few examples. There are many other Amaros available, each with its own unique flavor profile.