Quintessentia Amaro Nonino Riserva

Riserva' is the premium expression of grandfather Antonio Nonino's ancient Amaro recipe, softened by aging in barriques and small casks for 24 months.  Soft aromas of fruit bread, dried apricots, raisins, quinine and a whisp of white pepper follow in a silky, medium bodied palate that's fruity and zesty more than bittersweet. The grappa base spirit comes through, while the finish ups the complexity adding suggestions of chamomile tea, gentian, bergamot, apple mint and warming spices. Being a lighter, less assertive style means this is both accessible and versatile. 

Pair it with cream based desserts, cheeses or Tiramisu and chocolate. Also recommended in an Old-Fashioned, but leave other bitters out.

Region: Udine, Friuli

Alcohol: 35%

Size: 700ml

Producer Info: The Nonino family have devoted themselves to the art of distillation since 1897 and each generation has been consistently improving and innovating to change the perception of this ancient Friulian distillate. In 1973 Nonino became the first producer to create a single varietal Grappa from the indigenous Picolit grape, setting a trend which the rest of Italy's distillers would follow. Nonino has tirelessly campaigned for the preservation of local varieties, establishing the 'Risit d'Aur' (Golden Rootstock) Award in 1975, which is awarded annually to Friulian growers who preserve and propagate native vine material. In 1984 Nonino again set the standard with 'ÙE', distilling from whole grapes to preserve their unique aromas and flavours and softness on the palate. And in 2000, the Nonino's created Gioiello, a pure honey distillate to complement a range that few producers can rival for quality.