L.N. Mattei Cap Corse Rouge Aperitif

This aperitif from Corsica was created in the 19th century by Louis Napoléon Mattei. Cap Corse gets its moniker from the 25 mile long peninsula that juts out off the northern end of the Island. Cap Corse, the area, is known for having some of the best vineyards on the Island. Unlike most wine based liqueurs/aperitifs, the Cap Corse is made from grape must and grape spirit, so all the sweetness is residual sugar from the grapes. Cinchona barks (quinquina), fresh cacao, and walnut skins lend bitterness, while local cédrat (citron) adds fresh citrus notes and ties it all together. This gives a depth and complexity to a relatively inexpensive bottle. I found this to be great with both gin and tequila, but it tends to be a bit too bitter with just tonic water. It does work wonders with soda water.