Fernet Branca

Bartenders call it the bartender’s handshake — ordering a shot of Fernet Branca signals you’re in the industry. This intensely bitter Italian amaro tastes like mentholated herbs hit with a brick of dark chocolate. Argentina actually drinks more of it than Italy, typically mixed with Coke. In cocktails, it shows up in the Toronto (rye, Fernet, simple syrup, Angostura) and the Hanky Panky. A small pour settles the stomach after a big meal, which is supposedly why it exists. You’ll either love it or hate it — there is no in-between with Fernet.

Last modified on October 15, 2026