Where to go from Fernet

[tomjb27]

I've become a big fan of Fernet Branca. I would swear by its utility as a digestif, but I also quite enjoy drinking it simply for it's taste and kick. Less often, I use it as a cocktail ingredient (here is the cocktail that set me off initially: http://cocktailvirgin.blogspot.com/20...). So my question is, where should I go next in the world of Italian amaros?

[The Big Crunch]

One word:

Underberg

Not Italian, but a damn fine digestif.

[monopod]

You might try Leopold Brothers' version of Fernet as well. Different - more herby, less minty - but you may like it even better than Branca (I know I do).

[jaykayen]

Chartreuse. I know it's not Italian.

[EvergreenDan]

It would help to know more about what you like about Fernet Branca. It is a heavy menthol, moderately-bitter, high alcohol, fairly dry amaro. If you like the menthol, try Menta Branca. If you want something more bitter, try Sibilia or dell'Erborista, which are also quite dry. Sibilia is a higher in alcohol. If you like the alcohol punch, then I agree with DSP's suggestion of Riga Black Balsams (Balzams) (which, ideally, should be aged a year or more in the bottle, according my Latvian source).

For a versatile cocktail ingredient, try Cynar if you haven't already. It's also excellent as an aperitivo.

--
www.kindredcocktails.com | Craft cocktail database for pro's and enthusiasts

[davis_sq_pro]

Are either of those available in the Boston area? I've not seen them; and always interested in dry and bitter alternatives.

[EvergreenDan]

Yes, and right in your eponymous neighborhood -- Liquor World in Porter Sq, Cambridge. Note that they are oddly-placed in the store -- tippy-top shelf behind the register on the right, not out on the shelves with the other amari.

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www.kindredcocktails.com | Craft + Collect + Concoct + Categorize + Community

[davis_sq_pro]

Ah, great one! Thanks, Dan!

Unfortunately I now live in Melrose, but I head over to Cambridgeville on a somewhat regular basis. Will definitely buy a bottle of each next time I'm in the 'hood.

[davis_sq_pro]

A few of the more bitter amaro-like beverages of which I'm aware include:

Amaro Nardini
S. Maria Al Monte
Riga Black Balzam
Petrus

(I'm not positive that the last one is available in the US. But get it if you can--it makes Fernet look downright tame.)