Punt E Mes

The headquarters of Fratelli Branca is located in Milan, Italy, but they also produce some of their liqueur and vermouth in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Branca are perhaps most famous for their spectacularly intense digestif liqueur, Fernet Branca, which dates all the way back to 1845, when it was created by Bernardino Branca in Milan. It has grown incredibly popular over years, particularly in Argentina and San Francisco, where it is often served neat alongside ginger ale. Fernet Branca even made an appearance in The Dark Knight Rises, being enjoyed by Alfred Pennyworth! Nowadays, Branca also produce the Carpano brand of vermouth, including the rather wonderful Punt e Mes.

This vermouth contains quinine, which adds to the lovely bitterness, alongside 10 other herbs and spices. The result is a superbly balanced and herbal flavour. A great addition to many a cocktail.

Tasting Notes

Bittersweet, as expected, with a good helping of sweeter dark red fruits, baking spices, vanilla, orange peel and a pinch of tobacco, with a bitter fruitiness returning on the finish.