Fernet-Branca, the intensely bitter and herbaceous Italian digestivo, is a spirit that often divides opinion. Some recoil at its assertive character, while others are captivated by its complex, medicinal allure. For those who embrace its unique profile, Fernet is more than just a digestif; it’s a versatile cocktail ingredient that can add depth and intrigue to a wide range of drinks.
The “Dantes in Fernet” cocktail is a testament to Fernet’s mixability. This cocktail, with its smoky, sweet, and bitter notes, is a sophisticated sipper that will awaken your palate.
Diving into the Dantes in Fernet
This cocktail is not to be confused with Dante’s Inferno (cocktail), which is a completely different cocktail created with different ingredients. The Dantes in Fernet cocktail is a modern classic that showcases the spirit’s ability to play well with others. It is a complex cocktail, made with whiskey, blood orange juice, maple syrup, and Fernet-Branca.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
Here’s what you’ll need to craft this captivating cocktail:
- 1 oz (30 ml) Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky (or other preferred whiskey)
- 1 oz (30 ml) Fresh Blood Orange Juice
- 1/3 oz (10 ml) Maple Syrup
- 1 barspoon (5 ml) Fernet-Branca
- 1 dash Mole Bitters
- Grapefruit twist or orange twist, for garnish
Crafting the Cocktail: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create your own Dantes in Fernet:
- Chill Your Glass: Place a coupe or Nick & Nora glass in the freezer to chill. A chilled glass will help maintain the cocktail’s temperature and enhance the overall drinking experience.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the Scotch whisky, blood orange juice, maple syrup, Fernet-Branca, and mole bitters to a shaker tin.
- Add Ice: Fill the shaker with ice. The ice will chill and dilute the cocktail, creating a balanced and refreshing drink.
- Shake Well: Close the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds, or until the shaker is well-chilled.
- Fine Strain: Double strain the cocktail into the chilled glass to remove ice shards.
- Garnish: Express the oils from an orange or grapefruit twist over the drink and use as garnish.
Variations and Twists: Tailoring the Cocktail to Your Taste
The Dantes in Fernet is a versatile cocktail that can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations to try:
- Whiskey Selection: Experiment with different types of whiskey to find your perfect match. Bourbon, rye, or even a smoky Islay Scotch can add unique dimensions to the cocktail.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of maple syrup to control the sweetness of the cocktail. If you prefer a drier drink, reduce the syrup slightly.
- Bitters Variety: Explore different types of bitters to complement the other flavors in the cocktail. Orange bitters, chocolate bitters, or even aromatic bitters can add complexity and depth.
The Allure of Fernet-Branca
Fernet-Branca is an Italian amaro known for its intensely bitter and herbaceous flavor. It is made from a blend of 27 herbs and spices, including myrrh, rhubarb, chamomile, cardamom, and saffron. Fernet-Branca was created in Milan in 1845 by Bernardino Branca, and it quickly gained popularity as a medicinal tonic and digestif.
A Polarizing Potion
Fernet-Branca’s flavor is undeniably assertive, and it’s not for everyone. Its intensely bitter and medicinal notes can be off-putting to some, while others find its complexity and depth utterly captivating. This polarizing nature is part of what makes Fernet-Branca so intriguing.
Fernet’s Rise in Popularity
Fernet-Branca has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, particularly among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts. Its unique flavor profile and versatility have made it a favorite ingredient in both classic and contemporary cocktails.
Beyond the Shot: Fernet in Cocktails
While Fernet-Branca is often consumed as a shot, it truly shines as a cocktail ingredient. Its bitter notes can balance sweetness, add complexity, and create a unique flavor profile that elevates any drink.
Other Fernet Cocktails to Explore
If you enjoy the Dantes in Fernet, here are a few other Fernet cocktails to add to your repertoire:
- The Toronto: A classic cocktail that combines rye whiskey, Fernet-Branca, simple syrup, and bitters.
- The Hanky Panky: A sophisticated cocktail that features gin, sweet vermouth, and a few dashes of Fernet-Branca.
- Industry Sour: A bartender favorite that blends Fernet-Branca, gin, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white.
- The Alligator: Combines Fernet-Branca, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur and cinnamon syrup.
In Conclusion: Embrace the Bitter
The Dantes in Fernet cocktail is a testament to the versatility of Fernet-Branca. This cocktail can be a delightful experience for those looking for something different. So, embrace the bitter, experiment with different variations, and discover the unique allure of Fernet-Branca in your own cocktails.
