During Milan Fashion Week you’d naturally expect things to rise in the style stakes. After all, the Italians do know about style. The Italians also know about good liqueurs. Often thought to be too sweet, but when done right a good liqueur is delicious to savour. The discerning gent demands a liqueur that is done right so this week’s drinks cabinet recommendation is the rather classy Disaronno amaretto liqueur.

 

Previously named Amaretto di Saronno, this Italian liqueur is said to have been created way back in 1525. Legend has it that the innkeeper chosen to pose as the Madonna of the Miracles for artist Bernadino Luini was so grateful for the opportunity that she rewarded him with an amber liqueur made with apricot, kernel oil, caramel and the essence of 17 other fruits and herbs. The blend was instantly favoured and it has been going strong ever since.

 

Over the years the liqueur has grown in popularity most notably as a digestif served on it’s own, but also in cocktails too. When enjoying this tipple the first thing the discerning drinker will notice is the nose – firstly an intense aroma of marzipan that develops into a nutty sweetness. On the palate it’s smooth and velvety with the famed almond notes dancing around the taste buds with subtle notes of vanilla and lemon zest. The finish is sweet with a lingering notes of cherry.

 

The best way to enjoy this liqueur is perhaps simply sipped neat or in a glass with a large ice cube. For cocktail lovers, especially during Milan Fashion Week, the Amaretto Sour is a sure-fire winner.

 

Disaronno is 28% ABV and available in 70cl bottles from The Drinks Shop, RRP £18.99

 

For more details and amaretto cocktail recipes visit: www.disaronno.com