TCV Craft Spirits Book

CAPPELLETTI TRENTINO ALTO ADIGE, ITALY Vino Aperitivo #180972 / 750ml / $15.99 A much-anticipated addition, Cappelletti Aperitvo is an artisanal wine-based aperitif made by the same family for over four generations in the Alto-Adige region of Italy. Made from mostly Trebbiano, the nose is round and full, captivating with just a hint of bitterness and herbs. Texture on the palate is generous, providing a slight bitterness from notes of citrus peel. A wonderful mixer—Pair with Dolin Rouge for a beautiful negroni or Americano.

Americano Aperitif Wine #677450 / 750ml / $15.33

Americano Bianca is based on white wine from Italy’s Piedmont region, fortified then aromatized using botanicals including cinchona, gentian and citrus. Cocchi Americano is crisp and citrusy with a delicate bitter edge and gives many of the classics new life, with the bitter element playing an effective counterpoint to the other flavors in the drink. Excellent as a simple aperitif, poured over ice with a splash of club soda and a slice of orange. 5 Stars Difford’s Guide Americano Rosa #865488 / 750ml / $15.33 Americano Rosa has the lush mouthfeel and weight of a sweet vermouth, the fruit of a sangria, and the spice of a mulled wine, finishing with a tingle of bitterness on the tongue. It’s absolutely delicious.

CAPERITIF SOUTH AFRICA Kaapse Dief Aperitif #944240 / 750ml / $25.33

For decades this unique Cape Aperitif inspired barmen all over the globe and it made its way into many famous cocktail recipes and books. But, around 1910, the company that made it disappeared, as did the recipe. Fast forward 100 years to when a Danish mixologist met a Swartland winemaker and the ghost ingredient became a possibility and then a reality. Chenin Blanc fortified with spirit, gently sweetened by the sugar of the grapes, bittered by Quinchona bark and flavoured with some 35 truly Cape ingredients such as fynbos, kalmoes and naartjies.

4.5 Stars Difford’s Guide Barolo Chinato DOCG #677454 / 1.0L / $49.99 #677452 / 500ml / $35.33

Made from old Barolo infused with quinine bark, rhubarb, ginger, and other aromatic spices. Rich and complex with flavors unparalleled in wines of its category. Pairs exceptionally well with dark chocolate; also may be used to enhance cocktails in place of vermouth.

DEL PROFESSORE ITALY Named for the iconic bartender and cocktail pioneer Jerry Thomas, known as “The Professor,” Vermouth del Professore is produced at the Antica Distilleria Quaglia in the sunny hills between Monferrato and the hills around Turin. Vermouth del Professore #485411 / 750ml / $22.67 Golden-amber in color, Vermouth del Professore exudues aromas at once smokey, spicy, earthy and herbal. The supple texture of the alcohol balances its heat, and underlying bitter aromas counter the sugars present. A harmonious elixir that is refreshing and complex. 90pts Wine Enthusiast Vermouth Rosso all’uso Torino #594725 / 750ml / $23.99 A warm, soothing perfume of balsam and mint, balanced with aromas of bitter oils, orange zest, and vanilla. Vermouth del Professore Rosso is full and soft on the palate with a pleasant balsamic character underlined by rhubarb and gentian which are balanced by subtle sweetness and a light tannin structure from time spent in barrel. 96pts Ultimate Spirits Challenge

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