Cardamaro Vino Amaro

Cardamaro Vino Amaro shines when sipped neat or over ice as an aperitif, allowing its unique blend of cardoon and blessed thistle to fully express themselves. This versatile amaro also works well in spirit-forward cocktails like Manhattans or Negronis, and its subtle sweetness makes it a perfect companion for cool autumn evenings or paired with rich, savory dishes like roasted meats or aged cheeses.

Nose: Dried figs and raisins greet the nose, followed by subtle hints of warm baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. A gentle herbal aroma reminiscent of chamomile tea and fresh-cut hay lingers in the background.

Palate: The initial sip reveals flavors of caramelized brown sugar and toasted nuts, balanced by a mild bitterness. Notes of orange peel and cardoon (artichoke thistle) provide a unique vegetal quality. The wine base contributes a subtle grape sweetness that complements the herbal elements.

Finish: Medium-length finish with a pleasant interplay of sweet and bitter notes. The cardoon's distinctive flavor becomes more pronounced, leaving a slightly earthy, artichoke-like taste. A touch of warming spice and a hint of oak round out the experience.

Cardamaro Vino Amaro is crafted by infusing Moscato wine with cardoon and blessed thistle, two plants traditionally used in Italian herbal medicine. After the infusion process, the wine is fortified and aged in oak barrels for six months, resulting in a unique amaro that bridges the gap between fortified wine and herbal liqueur.

• Cardamaro is actually a wine-based amaro, not a spirit-based one. It's made from Moscato and other white wines, which are then infused with cardoon and blessed thistle—two bitter herbs related to the artichoke family.
• Despite its name, Cardamaro doesn't contain any cardamom. The "card" in its name refers to the cardoon, a thistle-like plant that's a close relative of the artichoke and is popular in Italian cuisine.
• Traditionally, Cardamaro was given to travelers in the Piedmont region of Italy as a restorative tonic. Its relatively low alcohol content (about 17% ABV) and digestive properties made it a perfect pick-me-up for weary voyagers.