Bitter and addictive, Fernet is made with 40-50 types of herbs and the taste will shock the virgin tongue. But despite most first-time drinkers saying it reminds them of bitter medicine, the beverage has been the symbol of friendship and social gathering in Argentina since the 1800s. The drink’s original purpose was to cleanse the system after a heavy meal or rid the body of contaminants in the water.

During the 19th century, Italian immigrants would routinely take a shot of the spirit after dinner, and young Argentine descendants then adopted the drink as a party favourite. Fernet 1882 is made to taste better with coke (the Argentine way), and in blind taste tests, most participants favour Fernet 1882, proving to Branca loyalists that there is another option

This drink is very popular in Argentina (drunk with Coca-Cola and ice). This is an icon of Argentine culture.  Its thick, bitter flavour, once famously described as black-liquorice flavoured Listerine makes it something of an acquired taste, but those who do like it love it. Said to contain more than 27 different herbs and spices.

Fernet

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