Montenegro Amaro, Italy (23%, 70cl)

The year was 1885 when master distiller Stanislao Cobianchi achieved what others deemed impossible - a harmonious marriage of forty hand-selected botanicals in one exquisite elixir. Today, Amaro Montenegro remains Italy's most approachable yet sophisticated digestif, its 23% ABV profile striking a perfect equilibrium between honeyed sweetness and herbal bitterness. The secret lies in twelve distinct infusion processes, where Sicilian blood oranges, Tahitian vanilla, and rare mountain herbs mingle in Slovenian oak before emerging with their signature warm amber glow.

Bring the glass to your nose and discover an orchestra of aromas - first the bright top notes of candied mandarin peel and wildflower honey, then the deeper tones of roasted hazelnuts and aged pipe tobacco. The first sip delivers an immediate caress of caramelized apricot, soon followed by waves of Mediterranean herbs - think sun-baked thyme and marjoram - before culminating in a graceful finish where gentian root and artemisia provide just enough bitter structure to keep you coming back for another taste.

In Bologna, they serve it neat in small crystal glasses after meals, allowing its complexity to unfold slowly at room temperature. Contemporary bartenders have discovered its versatility in modern classics like the Montenegroni, where it replaces vermouth for an herbaceous twist on the original. For summer gatherings, nothing beats its affinity for sparkling lemonade and fresh basil leaves, creating a refreshing long drink that transitions effortlessly from afternoon to evening.

The iconic star and crescent moon on every bottle pays homage to Princess Elena of Montenegro, whose grace and balance inspired Cobianchi's masterpiece. More than a century later, this symbol still represents the amaro's perfect equilibrium between tradition and innovation.

Available at our Copenhagen store or for EU-wide delivery.