Today, I’d like to introduce a cocktail along with a liqueur, which in a way relies on a similar aromatic style as the Port, Spice & Cherry-Punch from my last article did. The liqueur is a representative of a world-famous Italian traditional brand, about which I have already presented some background information in the context of another article (and if you should primarily think of Amaros respectively Amari when it comes to Italian liquor, will find some basic information here). (provided test product)*

The Luxardo Sangue Morlacco, that’s the sonorous name it listens to, is promoted by the manufacturer as a traditional Marasca liqueur that has been the second original specialty of Luxardo after the production of Maraschino since 1821. The Marasca cherries, which by the way were also the name giver for Maraschino, are cultivated by the company itself and are processed into a dark cherry liqueur instead of the clear maraschino. Therefore, it is more similar to a Cherry Heering or the Guignolet de Dijon. In contrast to the two mentioned liquors, however, the alcohol content of the Luxardo Sangue Morlacco is slightly higher (30% ABV), which is a good sign, because – as we all know – a higher ABV also leads to the chance of an increase in aromas (even though this may not always be the case with liqueurs due to the considerable addition of sugar).

Incidentally, the name Sangue Morlacco (Morlacco blood) goes back to a designation of the poet Gabriele D’Annunzio for this liqueur from 1919. Morlacco is the name of a Dalmatian tribe of people.

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Intense and beautiful cherry aromas rise to the nose, a fine acidity refers to the typical characteristics of the Marasca cherry. Associations of red wine tannins, some marzipan, cherry stones and Ruby Port are also recognizable.

Taste: Sweet, rich and full-flavored cherries unfold. In addition, there is a fine and subtle acidity, cherry stones, even more subtle marzipan, rock candy, candy apple and hints of cinnamon bark.

Finish: rather short to medium with cherry stones and grape seeds and a persistent sweetness

The combination of bourbon whiskey and cherry liqueur is a very popular and classic, so today I’d like to once more rely on it (as announced in the entry sentence). The result is nothing more than a simple Sour, which gains a very exciting and great taste dimension due to a hint of smoke by adding Laphroaig Quarter Cask Whisky. That’s why I called it “Il Fumo di Morlacco”.

Recipe “Il Fumo di Morlacco”:

3.5 cl Luxardo Sangue Morlacco
3 cl Bourbon whiskey
1.5 cl Laphroaig Quarter Cask
2 cl lemon juice
0.5 cl sugar syrup
1 Dash Cherry Bitters
½ egg white

Preparation: First, add all ingredients into a shaker without ice and do a “dry shake”. Then add ice and shake again vigorously. Finally, strain into your pre-chilled glass.

Glass: coupette

Garnish: none

Buying sources: At specialized retailers or online.

*The fact that this product has been sent to me free of charge for editorial purposes does not – in any way – imply any influence on the content of this article or my rating. On the contrary, it is always an indispensable condition for me to be able to review without any external influence.