Ferrari

The unofficial "bartender's handshake," or fernet-branca, is a liquid greeting that is given to colleagues in the industry. Once you have perfected the handshake, try the Ferrari, which is a blend of Fernet-Branca and Campari, another well-liked Italian amaro.

Exploring Amaro: The Bitter-Sweet Herbal Liqueur and the Ferrari Cocktail

Amaro, an intriguing bittersweet herbal liqueur, is a captivating blend of herbs, roots, spices, and flowers combined with an alcoholic base such as wine, neutral spirits, or grape brandy. Often sweetened with sugar, this complex liqueur has a rich history and is especially popular in Italy, where it is traditionally enjoyed as a digestif after meals or as an aperitif before dining.

The Allure of Amari

The term amari (the plural of amaro) encompasses a wide range of liqueurs, each with unique flavor profiles and aromatic qualities. Among the most celebrated are Campari and Fernet-Branca, both of which have passionate followings and illustrious histories.

Campari: A Bitter Legend

Gaspare Campari established the brand outside of Milan in 1860, and it is well-known for its strong bitterness and vivid red color. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, many experts believe that chinotto oranges contribute significantly to its distinct flavor profile. Campari serves as the backbone for many classic cocktails, including the Negroni and Americano, and its bold citrus notes have inspired a host of modern cocktails, such as the Tiki-inspired Jungle Bird.

Fernet-Branca: The Bartender’s Secret

Another famous amaro, Fernet-Branca, was made in Milan in 1845 by Bernardino Branca. This liqueur falls under the category of fernet amari, known for their strong medicinal and herbaceous flavors. Fernet-Branca's secret recipe, which includes myrrh, saffron, chamomile, and gentian, has pronounced notes of lime and mint. Its popularity surged in the United States, particularly in San Francisco, during the late 1990s and early 2000s, earning it the title of the “bartender’s handshake.” The cultural impact of Fernet-Branca has even inspired tattoos among industry professionals.

Drinking Fernet

Due to its potent flavor, Fernet is typically used sparingly in cocktails. It serves as a supporting ingredient in drinks like the Toronto and Hanky Panky. Alternatively, Fernet is often enjoyed neat, served over ice, or mixed with Coca-Cola—a beloved combination in Argentina, where Fernet con Coca is a national cocktail.

The Ferrari Cocktail: A Bold Blend of Amari

The Ferrari cocktail is a fantastic way to appreciate the complexity of these two beloved amari. While it can be consumed as a quick shot, it also shines when crafted as a cocktail. To make the Ferrari, simply increase the amounts of both Campari and Fernet-Branca to 1.5 ounces each, maintaining a balanced 1:1 ratio. Here’s how to prepare it:

Ingredients

• 3/4 ounce Campari
• 3/4 ounce Fernet-Branca

Steps

1. Combine Ingredients: Add both ingredients into a shot glass or a mixing glass.
2. Mix for a Cocktail: If you choose the cocktail route, stir with ice in the mixing glass and strain into a coupe glass for a refined experience.
3. Enjoy: Sip it as a shot or cocktail, appreciating the rich flavors of both amari.

Conclusion

Whether enjoyed as a simple shot or as part of a crafted cocktail, the combination of Campari and Fernet-Branca in the Ferrari offers a delightful experience that showcases the best of these complex herbal liqueurs. Each sip could introduce you to a new favorite drink, making it a worthy addition to any cocktail repertoire.