Bigallet China-China Amaro

Introduction:
Bigallet China-China Amaro is a French liqueur known for its distinctive blend of bitter orange peels and aromatic botanicals. Created in the French Alps, "China-China" refers to the use of both sweet and bitter (Seville) oranges ("chinotto" in Italian) alongside a variety of spices and roots. This amaro is macerated with caramelized sugar for added depth and richness, making it both bitter and slightly sweet. It is a versatile spirit, enjoyed as a digestif or as an intriguing ingredient in cocktails.

Appearance:
Deep amber with coppery-orange highlights, reflecting the rich infusion of oranges and spices.

Palate:
The palate is bold and complex, starting with an immediate burst of orange zest and candied citrus peel, balanced by a caramel sweetness. Bitter notes from gentian root and quinine emerge mid-palate, creating an earthy depth. Hints of warm spices—cinnamon, clove, and anise—add complexity, while a touch of vanilla softens the edges. The bitterness is rounded and balanced by the sweetness, creating a bittersweet profile with a satisfying finish.

Body:
Medium-bodied with a smooth, slightly viscous texture. The balance of caramelized sugar and bitter botanicals gives it a rounded mouthfeel, making it easy to sip while maintaining a pleasant bitterness.

Finish:
The finish is long, warming, and slightly dry, with lingering notes of bitter orange peel, caramel, and a hint of spice. The bittersweet profile fades gradually, leaving a refreshing and mildly bitter aftertaste.

Complexity:
Highly complex, with well-integrated layers of bitter orange, caramel, spice, and earthy bitterness. Each sip brings a new aspect of the ingredients, reflecting the craft behind this unique amaro.

Overall Impressions:
Bigallet China-China Amaro is a distinctive, bittersweet liqueur that offers a beautiful balance of bright citrus, bitter botanicals, and subtle sweetness. It’s a versatile amaro, excellent for sipping neat or over ice, and its bold flavors also make it an exciting addition to cocktails like a Negroni or Manhattan variation. This French amaro is perfect for those who enjoy a more citrus-forward, bittersweet spirit with a nuanced, spiced complexity.