Italians have a unique way of enjoying fernet, a herbal liqueur that originated in Italy. While it is commonly enjoyed as a shot, there are also other popular ways to consume it. Italians often mix fernet into coffee and espresso, creating a unique and flavorful drink. Additionally, it is not uncommon to find fernet being used as an ingredient in cocktails.
According to Campbell, an expert in the field, Italians have a tradition of drinking fernet “neat,” which means they enjoy it straight without any additional ingredients. They often consume it throughout the day and after a meal. This suggests that fernet holds a special place in Italian culture, not just as a celebratory drink but also as a daily indulgence. It is interesting to note that this contrasts with the perception of fernet being solely a party or late-night drink in other parts of the world.
However, it is worth mentioning that drinking fernet straight up can be challenging for individuals who are new to it. This is where the expertise of bar consultants like Cari Hah comes into play. They are aware that fernet can have an acquired taste and may not be immediately appealing to everyone. To make it more approachable, they often suggest mixing it with other ingredients or using it as a component in cocktails.
In my personal experience, I have found that fernet can be an acquired taste. When I first tried it, I was taken aback by its intense herbal flavors. However, over time, I developed an appreciation for its unique profile. I found that mixing it with coffee or using it in cocktails helped to mellow out its strong flavors and made it more enjoyable for me.
To summarize, Italians have a diverse approach to drinking fernet. While they often enjoy it neat throughout the day and after meals, it is also common to find it mixed into coffee or used as an ingredient in cocktails. The key is to find a serving method that suits your taste preferences and allows you to appreciate the distinct flavors of this traditional Italian liqueur.