Marolo Milla Grappa & Camomile Liqueur

Some nights, a hot cup of camomile is enough to help me wind down. The other 364 nights of the year, a night cap is in order. I came across this camomile spirit after a considerably heavy, (and delicious), Italian dinner. My stomach had no room for dessert and my palate was exhausted from a powerful Barolo. I wasn't a grappa drinker at the time, so the bartender suggested this hybrid as a gateway to the world of Italian eau de vie. This treat made a lasting impression, and has been a staple in my home ever since. It lives in that cozy nook between dessert wine and pure spirit. The liqueur is an infusion of nebbiolo grappa and camomile flowers, macerated for 11 months, with a kiss of sugar added in the end. It has what many liqueurs lack in complexity, with some bonus heat and power from its grappa base. Also, tea is overrated.