Cocchi Americano is a unique and venerable brand that has been around since 1891. Its recipe is a well-guarded secret, but we do know some of the key ingredients that go into making this iconic aperitif.
The base of Cocchi Americano is white wine, which gives it a refreshing and crisp character. However, it is not just any white wine. The wine is fortified with alcohol, which helps to preserve the flavors and aromas of the botanicals that are added later in the process.
Speaking of botanicals, Cocchi Americano is macerated with a carefully selected blend of herbs, spices, and other botanicals. Some of the key botanicals used in the recipe include gentian, cinchona, bitter orange peel, rhubarb, juniper, coriander, rose, and mace.
Gentian is a bitter herb that adds a distinct bitterness to the aperitif, while cinchona bark contributes a subtle and complex bitterness as well. Bitter orange peel provides a citrusy and slightly bitter note, adding to the overall flavor profile.
Rhubarb brings a unique tartness and earthy flavor to the mix, while juniper adds a touch of piney and resinous character. Coriander seeds contribute a delicate spiciness, while rose petals bring a floral and slightly sweet aroma to the blend. Mace, which is the outer covering of nutmeg, adds a warm and slightly spicy note.
The combination of these botanicals creates a complex and well-balanced flavor profile in Cocchi Americano. The bitterness from the gentian and cinchona is complemented by the citrusy notes from the bitter orange peel. The rhubarb adds a tartness that cuts through the bitterness, while the juniper and coriander provide a subtle spiciness. The rose and mace add a touch of floral and warm notes, rounding out the overall flavor experience.
It is important to note that the exact proportions and specific varieties of these botanicals are part of Cocchi Americano's secret recipe, which is closely guarded by the brand. This ensures that each batch of Cocchi Americano maintains its unique and consistent flavor profile.
I have personally had the pleasure of tasting Cocchi Americano and can attest to its exceptional quality and complexity. The blend of botanicals creates a harmonious and intriguing flavor that is perfect for sipping on its own or using as a key ingredient in classic cocktails such as the Corpse Reviver No. 2 or the Vesper.
Cocchi Americano is a meticulously crafted aperitif that combines white wine fortified with alcohol and a carefully selected blend of botanicals including gentian, cinchona, bitter orange peel, rhubarb, juniper, coriander, rose, and mace. These ingredients come together to create a unique and well-balanced flavor profile that has made Cocchi Americano a beloved choice for aperitif enthusiasts for over a century.