Introduction:
Varnelli Amaro Dell’Erborista is a distinctively bold and rustic Italian amaro produced in the Marche region by Varnelli, a family-owned distillery known for its traditional, artisanal approach. Made using a recipe rooted in herbalist practices, this amaro is crafted with wild mountain herbs, roots, and barks, and sweetened with honey instead of sugar. Unfiltered and naturally cloudy, Amaro Dell'Erborista is an intense, earthy, and unrefined amaro that showcases the raw essence of its botanicals. It’s often appreciated by amaro aficionados for its powerful, authentic flavor.
Appearance:
Dark amber with a natural cloudiness, indicative of its unfiltered nature and raw, traditional production methods.
Palate:
The palate is robust and deeply herbal, with a potent bitterness from botanicals such as gentian root, rhubarb, and wormwood. Initial flavors include earthy, woody tones with hints of burnt caramel and honey, adding a subtle sweetness to balance the intense bitterness. Mid-palate, there are complex notes of licorice, anise, and wild herbs, creating a slightly resinous, smoky quality. The flavors are deep and layered, emphasizing an authentic, rustic experience that is unapologetically bitter yet balanced.
Body:
Full-bodied with a slightly thick, viscous texture from the honey, which provides a smooth and warming mouthfeel. The unfiltered nature gives it a rich, rustic texture that adds to the experience.
Finish:
The finish is long, dry, and powerfully bitter, with lingering notes of smoky herbs, licorice, and a slight hint of honeyed sweetness. The earthy bitterness fades slowly, leaving a clean, herbal aftertaste with a touch of smokiness that is both bold and memorable.
Complexity:
Highly complex, with a layered interplay of earthy, herbal, bitter, and smoky notes. The unfiltered, honey-sweetened profile enhances the raw depth of the botanicals, making it a deeply traditional, multifaceted amaro.
Overall Impressions:
Varnelli Amaro Dell’Erborista is a one-of-a-kind amaro that highlights the raw power of traditional herbal liqueurs. Best enjoyed neat at room temperature to fully appreciate its depth, it is ideal for seasoned amaro enthusiasts who prefer a more intense, rustic experience. Its bold flavor also makes it suitable as a unique addition to cocktails where a smoky, bitter profile can shine. Amaro Dell'Erborista is a memorable expression for those who enjoy exploring the deeply authentic and traditional side of Italian amari.