Fernet is a bold, herbal liqueur with a devoted following among bartenders and spirits enthusiasts. Its intensely bitter yet aromatic profile makes it a standout in cocktail culture, especially among those who appreciate complex, assertive flavors. Italian fernet, in particular, has become a favorite for mixologists who enjoy experimenting with bold ingredients.
The global rise of fernet in the bar scene has cemented its reputation as more than just an after-dinner digestif. Once valued as an herbal remedy, this bold liqueur now plays a key role in modern mixology, evolving with new flavors and styles. In this blog, we’ll explore its rich history, distinctive taste, and iconic brands like Fernet-Branca.
What is Fernet?
Fernet is a bold Italian amaro—a bitter herbal liqueur known for its intense, complex flavor. With an alcohol content of 40 to 45 percent, it can be sipped neat as a digestif or used to add depth to cocktails. Unlike other Amari, fernet stands out for its unmistakable bitterness, crafted from a rich blend of herbs, spices, roots, and citrus peels. Its earthy, medicinal profile and potent herbal aroma make it a staple in bars worldwide. While traditional recipes stay true to their signature bitterness, modern variations offer a twist for broader appeal.
The Rich History of Fernet
Fernet was first developed as a medicinal tonic in 1845 in Italy by a Milanese entrepreneur, Bernardino Branca. Initially sold as a health elixir, it supposedly improved digestion and liver function, and even cured cholera. This therapeutic image earned Fernet a large following, making it a household favorite.
As Fernet became popular, it crossed the borders of Italy into Argentina where it settled into its place as the national beverage, transforming from medicine into a social drink. The combination of Fernet and Coke soon became a national sensation.
Fernet’s history in America starts at underground bars, as mixologists discovered that the complexity and depth worked equally well in cocktails. From a niche favorite to a popular and respectable player in the craft cocktail world, Fernet has evolved over the years.
This beloved drink has remained relevant, reinventing itself to suit modern tastes while being handed down through generations. Today, it continues to thrive as both a traditional digestif and an essential ingredient in modern mixology.
Exploring Fernet Flavors: A Complex Liqueur
Although Fernet is bitter, each Fernet brand has its unique blend of herbs, spices, and citrus, leading to a complex and ever-evolving taste. Common ingredients include myrrh, rhubarb, chamomile, saffron, aloe, cinnamon, and so on. These spices give it a complex and somewhat medicinal taste. While all Fernets have a bitter aftertaste, the proportion of other flavors varies widely depending on the brand. Some feature flowery or citrus notes, while others are earthier and more resinous.
Brands like Fernet-Branca maintain their signature bitterness, whereas others, like Fernet Leopold, add a touch of sweetness to create a more rounded flavor. Some prefer the intense astringency of the original recipes, while others like the smoother taste of a more contemporary fernet.
Fernet-Branca: The Iconic Brand
While there are many varieties of Fernet, the most famous and popular of them all is the OG Fernet-Branca. Its founder, Bernardino Branca, came up with a proprietary blend of 27 different herbs and botanicals from around the world to flavor his Fernet. Established in 1845, the Fernet-Branca created a standard that other Fernet manufacturers still aspire to. The exact recipe is a well-kept secret.
Fernet-Branca is intensely bitter and deeply herbal, unfolding in layers of complex flavors. It opens with a bold, medicinal bitterness that transitions into warm spice and bright citrus notes, finishing with an earthy, menthol-like coolness. This distinctive profile makes it a favorite among bartenders, featured in classic cocktails like the Toronto and Hanky Panky.
Crafting Fernet: The Art of Small-Batch Production
Making Fernet is a complex process that requires precise knowledge of combining various natural herbs and botanicals. Despite this, many Fernet producers continue to work with small batches, to preserve the liqueur’s unique flavor profile. Fernet makers select and macerate various herbs, roots, and spices, and use only natural, high-quality ingredients to go into the process. This gives each batch the depth and complexity for which Fernet is famous. While artisan producers uphold traditional methods and ingredient combinations, they also introduce new elements to create distinctive, modern twists.
In recent years, the craft Fernet movement – smaller distilleries experimenting with different botanicals and aging techniques – has introduced exciting new twists to the classic flavors.
Why You Should Try Fernet
If you enjoy complex spirits with unique flavor profiles that challenge your taste buds, then Fernet is a must-try. Whether sipped straight, on the rocks, or used as a cocktail ingredient, few liqueurs can match Fernet’s depth and complexity. Its distinctive bitterness adds layers of flavor to beverages, making it a favorite among bartenders and mixologists crafting balanced, complex cocktails. Classic drinks such as the Toronto, Hanky Panky, and Fernet Sour showcase their versatility and ability to enhance other flavors.
If you’re new to Fernet, it’s best to start with Fernet-Branca, as it offers the original and most authentic flavor profile. You can also try exploring different brands and pairing Fernet with various spirits.
Where to Find Quality Fernets
Fernet is a drink that can’t be pinned down – it's both an old-school digestif and a must-have ingredient in mixology. Its rich history, complex flavors, and bold bitterness make it worth exploring. Whether enjoyed through traditional labels such as Fernet-Branca or modern variations, fernet attracts drinkers who admire complex spirits.
To experience the best of the fernet experience, you need to seek out high-quality brands. The Epicurean Trader offers an array of fine Fernets, enabling fanciers to explore both traditional and modern variations. Built from a carefully curated selection and expert advice, we are the ideal place to find new and exciting fernets for every palate.
