Fernet-Branca: Italy’s Century-Old, Mysterious Herbal Liqueur

This Italian herbal liqueur, Amaro, was invented by Bernardino Branca in 1845. It is crafted using a secret recipe that incorporates ingredients sourced from around the world, making it one of the most popular Italian herbal liqueurs.

Fernet-Branca Factory

1865 Fernet-Branca Initial Poster

The first promotional poster for Fernet-Branca was released in 1865.

Fernet-Branca was first featured in cocktails in 1922, mentioned in Robert Vermiere’s cocktail book How to Make Them, in a recipe for the Toronto cocktail.

The Toronto cocktail is a twist on the classic Manhattan, combining rye whiskey, Fernet-Branca, and Angostura bitters for a timeless combination.

In 1925, the classic cocktail Hanky Panky was created by Ada Coleman at the American Bar in the Savoy Hotel. This cocktail (composed of gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca) propelled Fernet-Branca to new heights of popularity.

Contents and Recipe

Fernet-Branca Recipe

Fernet-Branca is made from a blend of 27 herbs and secret ingredients based on a traditional recipe. Common ingredients include mint, chamomile, and saffron. It was one of the most popular digestifs of its time.

Flavor Profile

Initially, the taste is distinctly bitter, even described as extremely astringent, but it gradually transitions to a sweetness, accompanied by a refreshing hint of mint (which actually comes from saffron). Its flavor profile has been compared to that of the German herbal liqueur Jägermeister.

Health Benefits

Many herbal liqueurs claim to have health benefits, which helped Fernet-Branca maintain its leading status even after Prohibition. It was even sold in some licensed pharmacies. The original bottle label stated:

“This liqueur aids digestion, strengthens the body, and boosts immunity against cholera and other ailments.”

While modern assessments scrutinize such claims, Fernet-Branca is considered relatively healthy due to its lower sugar content compared to other liqueurs. It is also reputed to be an effective hangover remedy (consult a licensed medical professional for actual medical advice).

Three Ways to Enjoy Fernet-Branca

Fernet and Coke
Besides drinking it neat, mixing Fernet-Branca with Coke is a simple and popular method. The bitterness of Fernet-Branca balances the sweetness of the Coke, creating a straightforward yet harmonious drink.

• 50 ml Fernet-Branca
• Coke

La Branca

• 30 ml Fernet-Branca
• 30 ml añejo tequila
• 5 ml lime juice
• Top with ginger beer

Hanky Panky
This cocktail is a slightly sweeter martini with a hint of bitterness. The original recipe from The Savoy Cocktail Book is as follows:

• 2 dashes Fernet-Branca
• 1/2 oz Italian vermouth
• 1/2 oz dry gin