Amaro Nonino Quintessentia is a delightful and complex digestif amaro that hails from the beautiful region of Friuli in northern Italy. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring a wide range of spirits and liqueurs, and Amaro Nonino Quintessentia has always stood out to me for its unique and captivating flavor profile.
At its core, Amaro Nonino is grappa based, which lends it a distinct and robust character. Grappa, for those unfamiliar, is a traditional Italian spirit made by distilling the leftover grape skins, seeds, and stems from the winemaking process. This base gives Amaro Nonino a rich and velvety texture that sets it apart from other amaros on the market.
What truly sets Amaro Nonino apart, however, is its remarkable blend of herbs, spices, and roots. The makers of this amaro have carefully curated a selection of ingredients that come together harmoniously to create a truly captivating taste experience. From the moment it hits your palate, you are greeted with a symphony of flavors that dance across your taste buds.
Gentian, with its bitter and earthy notes, serves as the backbone of Amaro Nonino, providing a solid foundation for the other ingredients to shine. Saffron, a prized spice known for its vibrant color and delicate aroma, adds a touch of elegance and complexity to the mix. Licorice, with its distinct sweetness, balances out the bitterness and adds a pleasant depth to the overall flavor profile.
Rhubarb, sweet and bitter orange, and tamarind contribute a delightful tanginess, brightening up the amaro and adding a refreshing twist. Quassia bark and chinchona bark, both known for their bitter properties, round out the flavor profile and give Amaro Nonino its characteristic bite. Galenga, a lesser-known ingredient, adds a subtle spiciness that lingers on the palate.
The combination of these ingredients results in a truly unique and captivating amaro that is both bitter and sweet, with a delightful balance of flavors. It is a truly versatile spirit that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a key component in a variety of cocktails.
I have personally had the pleasure of sipping Amaro Nonino after a hearty meal, and it never fails to amaze me with its ability to aid in digestion and bring a sense of satisfaction and contentment. Its complex flavors and lingering finish make it a perfect digestif, allowing you to savor each sip and reflect on the meal that preceded it.
Amaro Nonino Quintessentia is a grappa-based amaro infused with a carefully selected blend of herbs, spices, and roots. Its unique flavor profile, combining bitter and sweet notes, makes it a standout in the world of amaros. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a cocktail, Amaro Nonino is sure to leave a lasting impression.