Fernet Branca

Fernet-Branca: This legendary Italian amaro is a bold concoction of 27 secret herbs and spices, delivering a potent blend of bitter, minty, and herbal flavors. Known as the "bartender's handshake," it's a rite of passage for those in the know. Whether sipped neat, mixed with cola in the Argentine favorite "Fernet con Coca," or added to cocktails like the Hanky Panky, Fernet-Branca offers a unique and invigorating experience.

40% ABV, 750 ml

"This amaro seems innocuous at first, with its coffee-brown hue and mild, root-like aroma. But it's intensely bitter from the first sip—so much so that it's hard to detect other flavors, though there's a bitter espresso and unsweetened chocolate core, plus a minty finish. Bartenders love to offer this uber-bitter liqueur as a shock-value shot; it's challenging to sip straight, even though the alcohol level is moderate. But it's also a key component of some classic drinks, like the Hanky Panky, and that's where its value lies." Wine Enthusiast

The "Toronto" cocktail is a great way to experience Fernet-Branca. It features rye whiskey, Fernet-Branca, and a touch of simple syrup. Another popular choice is the "Hanky Panky", a sweet Martini variation with gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca.Here's a more detailed look at these two options:

Toronto Cocktail
Ingredients:
Rye whiskey, Fernet-Branca, simple syrup. 
Preparation:
Stir all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with an orange peel. 
Flavor Profile:
The Toronto offers a strong, brown, and slightly sweet flavor with the bitter kick of Fernet-Branca. 
Note:
Some prefer to use Canadian rye whiskey for a more authentic Toronto experience. . .

Hanky Panky Cocktail
Ingredients:
Gin, sweet vermouth, Fernet-Branca, orange twist. 
Preparation:
Stir gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with an orange twist. 
Flavor Profile:
The Hanky Panky is a sweet and herbal cocktail with the added complexity of Fernet-Branca. 
Note:
This cocktail is a sweet Martini riff, with Fernet-Branca adding a distinctive bitter edge.