As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting many different types of amari, including the renowned San Simone. This particular amaro is truly a delight for the senses, with a complex and layered flavor profile that showcases the unique botanicals and herbs sourced from the Piedmont region.
When you take your first sip of San Simone, you are immediately greeted with a bold and assertive bitterness. This bitterness comes from the presence of gentian, a bitter root that is often used in amari production. However, what sets San Simone apart from other amari is its ability to balance this bitterness with a subtle sweetness.
The sweetness in San Simone comes from a combination of different ingredients, such as cinchona, wormwood, and rhubarb root. These ingredients add a depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness that counterbalances the initial bitterness. It's a delicate dance between bitter and sweet, and San Simone does it with finesse.
As the flavors unfold on your palate, you may notice hints of earthiness and herbaceousness. This is thanks to the inclusion of marjoram, a fragrant herb that adds a subtle savory note to the amaro. It's a unique flavor that adds complexity and depth to the overall taste experience.
The taste of San Simone can be described as bold, bitter, and yet beautifully balanced. The bitterness is not overpowering but rather serves as a foundation for the other flavors to shine. The sweetness is present but not cloying, providing a pleasant contrast to the bitterness. The herbal and earthy notes add a touch of intrigue and make each sip a journey of flavors.
In my personal experience, I have found that San Simone pairs exceptionally well with dark chocolate or rich desserts. The bitterness of the amaro cuts through the sweetness of the dessert, creating a harmonious balance. It can also be enjoyed on its own, either as a digestif or aperitif, allowing you to savor and appreciate the complexity of its flavors.
So, if you're looking for an amaro that offers a truly unique taste experience, I highly recommend trying San Simone. Its distinctive blend of botanicals, herbs, and roots creates a flavor profile that is both bitter and sweet, with hints of earthiness and herbaceousness. It's a true delight for the senses and a testament to the artistry of amaro production.