Cynar Amaro 70 Proof (1L, 35%)

Cynar is an Italian amaro distinctive for its use of artichoke leaves and a carefully guarded blend of around 13 herbs and botanicals. This version is labelled 70 Proof and is based on the original recipe, bottled at a higher strength to intensify the bitter-herbal character. The name comes from cynarin, a compound found in artichokes. It is suited to sipping neat over a large ice cube or in cocktails such as a highball with soda and lemon, or as a substitute for vermouth or Campari in a Negroni or Manhattan. The nose is earthy and aromatic, with roasted artichoke leaf, dark cacao nibs, licorice root, sage, eucalyptus or menthol and gentle spice, followed by a smooth, moderately rich palate with bittersweet dark chocolate, walnut, celery salt, dried chili flake and vegetal artichoke root, and a clean, persistent finish with herbal bitterness, mild vegetal sweetness and dry wine-like tannin.