Felice Bisleri & Co. - Ferro China Bitter (700ml)

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Producer	Felice Bisleri & Co.
Country	Italy
Region	Lombardy
Style	Amaro & Aperitif
Size	700ml

Ferro China is a sub-category of amari that contains iron ammonium citrate (ferro) and cinchona bark (china) and is characterized in flavor by a distinctive metallic bitterness. Created in the late 1800s, Ferro China was traditionally used in Italy as a digestive tonic and medicinal supplement for anemia.

Felice Bisleri was an inventor and chemist. He established the Felice Bisleri & Co. chemical laboratory in Milan and developed Ferro-China Bisleri, which was patented in 1881. Subsequent brands emerged, led commercially by Ferro-China Baliva, produced in Rome. Popularity of the overall category declined in the 1970s, and Bisleri was acquired by Diageo and then discontinued in 2015; for a time, Baliva was the only Ferro China in production. Gruppo Caffo’s recent acquisition of Ferro-China Bisleri, however, marks the return of the original and beloved Milanese Ferro China!

Amaro Notes: The original iron-cinchona bitter that was used to treat anemia during periods of war and famine! Patented in 1881, this distinct amaro was a mainstay of the Italian tradition of using spirits medicinally until it declined in popularity in the 1970s and was discontinued. Now this cult classic is once again available and a must-try for any lover of bitter and unusual amari. Made from a base of neutral grain alcohol infused with Chinchona bark and iron citrate plus an aromatic blend of gentian, cinnamon, and peppermint, Bisleri Ferrochina begins with aromas of cola, freshly juiced orange, cherry and cocoa nib before transitioning to a mid-palate of peppermint and cinnamon that then dives sharply into a memorable finish of pennies and wet slate. 21% ABV.