Fernet-Branca 180th Anniversary Limited Edition

Fernet-Branca 180th Anniversary Limited Edition marks nearly two centuries of unapologetic intensity. Produced in Milan since 1845, this release celebrates the house’s enduring influence on bitters culture worldwide. The liquid remains the original formula, unchanged and fiercely guarded. What’s different is the presentation, honoring legacy rather than reinvention. Bold, bitter, and uncompromising, it still defies trends. This is not nostalgia. It’s continuity.

Nose:
The nose is immediately commanding and unmistakable. Deep medicinal herbs rise first, led by gentian, eucalyptus, and alpine roots. Cooling mint and camphor follow, creating a sharp, almost bracing lift. Beneath the bitterness, subtle notes of saffron, dried citrus peel, and dark cocoa add complexity. The aroma feels dense, layered, and unapologetically old-world.

Palate:
The palate arrives bold and uncompromising. Intense bitterness dominates early, driven by gentian, myrrh, and bitter roots. Licorice, clove, and anise unfold mid-palate, bringing warmth and spice. A restrained sweetness briefly appears, rounding edges without softening impact. The texture is viscous and mouth-coating, reinforcing its iconic weight and authority.

Finish:
The finish is long, cooling, and relentless. Mint and eucalyptus linger powerfully, followed by dry herbal bitterness that slowly tightens the palate. Subtle earthy tones and spice persist well after the sip. The closing sensation is cleansing, austere, and deeply satisfying, leaving no doubt about its identity.

Serve after heavy meals as a true digestif, especially following rich meats or creamy dishes. Dark chocolate desserts, particularly those with high cacao content, echo and soften its bitterness. Espresso or affogato creates a classic Italian pairing, amplifying herbal and roasted notes. Sharp, aged cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino provide bold contrast. It also works surprisingly well alongside cured meats, where salt and fat tame its intensity.