Introduction:
Nonino Amaro Quintessentia is a premium Italian amaro crafted by the esteemed Nonino family, who are known for their expertise in grappa production. Made in Friuli, Italy, this amaro combines a carefully selected blend of herbs, roots, and botanicals with Nonino’s signature grappa as the base spirit. Quintessentia is aged in small oak barrels, which adds a layer of warmth and depth, resulting in a rich, smooth amaro with a uniquely sophisticated character.
Appearance:
Deep amber with warm mahogany highlights, reflecting the barrel aging and rich botanical infusion.
Palate:
The palate is smooth and complex, opening with notes of dark cherry, orange peel, and a gentle sweetness reminiscent of honey and caramel. Mid-palate, the herbal bitterness emerges, with flavors of gentian, rhubarb, and a touch of wormwood, balanced by subtle spices like cinnamon and clove. Vanilla and a hint of cocoa add a warm richness, and the grappa base brings a subtle, fruity depth that sets it apart from other amaros.
Body:
Full-bodied with a velvety, slightly viscous texture. The amaro’s mouthfeel is rich and warming, adding to its luxurious, sippable quality.
Finish:
The finish is long, bittersweet, and elegant, with lingering notes of dried fruit, dark chocolate, and a gentle herbal bitterness. A hint of vanilla and orange zest rounds out the aftertaste, leaving a refined and satisfying warmth.
Complexity:
Exceptionally complex, with a beautifully layered interplay of fruit, herbal bitterness, warm spices, and oak. Each sip reveals new dimensions, showcasing Nonino’s skillful blending and aging process.
Overall Impressions:
Nonino Amaro Quintessentia is a sophisticated and balanced amaro that pairs the warmth of oak-aged grappa with a richly nuanced botanical profile. It’s ideal for sipping neat or over ice as a digestif, and its elegant flavors also make it a fantastic addition to cocktails, such as the Paper Plane or a modern Negroni. This amaro is perfect for those who appreciate a complex, barrel-aged digestif with a harmonious balance of sweetness, bitterness, and depth, and it makes an impressive addition to any amaro collection.