Contratto Bitter LiqueurContratto has produced sparkling wines, vermouths, and aperitifs in the Asti province of Piedmont, Italy since 1867. The bitter is a delightfully distinct spin on the category, with a more spice and fruit forward profile than the typical citrus and gentian (though those are both present as well). A heady mix of 24 herbs, spices, roots and seeds combined with Italian Brandy. Its color comes from vegetable extracts and its ingredients include aloe,

bright citrus notes from orange and lemon

A dry and woody finish that is warming

The 100 proof provides excellent versatility—bold enough to stand up beautifully in classic cocktails like Old Fashioneds

Sweet balanced with touch of citrus acidity

and the distillery soon began producing three rye whiskeys under Fritz’s guidance

rather a generous warmth infused with butterscotch and light caramel

Its vanilla sweetness is tempered by a wash of bitter orange

There are over 70 herbs in the recipe that make this very herbal

gently sweet but balanced by a fierce herbal quality

with gentle sweetness appearing as the pepper fades

The finish is long and satisfying with lingering oak tannins

The brandy has an extraordinary texture and flavor profile