Mirto liqueur is a traditional liqueur from the island of Sardinia in Italy. It is made from the berries or leaves of the myrtle plant, which is abundant on the island. The liqueur comes in two varieties: Mirto rosso, also known as simply murta, is made with the berries of the black myrtle plant and has a sweet flavor. Mirto bianco, or murta arba, is made with the berries of the white myrtle plant or sometimes from young leaves.
The process of making Mirto liqueur is a labor of love. The berries or leaves are carefully harvested and then macerated in alcohol to extract their flavors. The maceration process can take several weeks, allowing the alcohol to absorb the aromatic compounds from the myrtle. After this period, the liquid is filtered to remove any solids and then sweetened if necessary.
Mirto rosso, with its rich red color, is the more popular variety of Mirto liqueur. It has a distinct sweet and fruity flavor, with notes of berries and a hint of bitterness. The sweetness is balanced by the natural tartness of the myrtle berries, creating a harmonious and complex taste profile. It is often enjoyed as a digestif after a meal or used as an ingredient in cocktails.
Mirto bianco, on the other hand, is less common but equally intriguing. It has a pale yellow color and a more delicate flavor compared to its red counterpart. The white myrtle berries or young leaves impart a subtle herbal and floral taste to the liqueur. Mirto bianco is often enjoyed as an aperitif or used in light and refreshing cocktails.
Both varieties of Mirto liqueur have a long history and cultural significance in Sardinia. They are often homemade by families, passed down from generation to generation. The liqueur is deeply connected to the island's traditions and is often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations.
Having had the opportunity to taste both Mirto rosso and Mirto bianco during my travels in Sardinia, I can attest to their unique and captivating flavors. The sweetness of the red Mirto is beautifully balanced by the slight bitterness, creating a pleasant and lingering aftertaste. The white Mirto, on the other hand, surprised me with its delicate and nuanced flavors, reminiscent of fresh herbs and flowers.
Mirto liqueur is a delightful and traditional Italian liqueur made from the berries or leaves of the myrtle plant. The red variety, Mirto rosso, is sweet and fruity, while the white variety, Mirto bianco, is more delicate and herbal. Both offer a taste of the rich cultural heritage of Sardinia and are a treat for the senses.