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Classic Fernet-Branca is the unmistakably bold Italian herbal liqueur that became a cultural icon in Argentina. Created in Milan in 1845, its closely guarded formula combines 27 herbs, spices and roots from four continents before resting in oak barrels for one year.
The result is intense, aromatic and proudly bitter, with deep herbal flavours, earthy roots, warming spice and a long, complex finish. It can be enjoyed well chilled or over ice, but in Argentina there is one serve that stands above the rest: Fernet con Coca, Fernet-Branca mixed with cola and plenty of ice.
This classic Italian Fernet-Branca is made by Fratelli Branca Distillerie and bottled at 39% ABV in a 700ml bottle.
One bottle, two countries and millions of shared moments: born in Italy, embraced by Argentina.
What Is Classic Fernet-Branca?
Fernet-Branca is an Italian amaro: a bitter, aromatic herbal liqueur traditionally enjoyed on its own, after a meal or as part of a mixed drink. It was created by Bernardino Branca in Milan in 1845, and its secret formula has been passed down through generations of the Branca family.
The recipe brings together 27 herbs, spices and roots sourced from four continents. The producer identifies examples including rhubarb from China, gentian from France, galangal from India and Sri Lanka, and chamomile from Europe and Argentina.
Each botanical is processed into an infusion, extract or essence. The mixture is then rested in oak barrels for one year, allowing its powerful herbal, spicy and bitter components to develop into the distinctive Fernet-Branca flavour.
What Does Fernet-Branca Taste Like?
Fernet-Branca is not designed to disappear quietly into the background. It is assertive, bitter and layered, with a flavour that develops as you drink it. Expect aromatic herbs first, followed by earthy roots, warming spice and a clean, lingering bitterness.
- Aroma: Intense herbs, roots, spice and subtle menthol notes
- Taste: Bold botanical bitterness with earthy, woody and gently warming layers
- Finish: Long, dry, spicy and unmistakably herbal
- Style: Classic Italian fernet and bitter amaro
Its bitterness is part of its identity. If you are trying Fernet-Branca for the first time, mixing it with cola is the most approachable introduction and the authentic Argentine way to enjoy it.
Why Choose Classic Fernet-Branca?
- Created in Milan, Italy, in 1845
- Made using a secret formula of 27 herbs, spices and roots
- Botanicals sourced from four continents
- Rested in oak barrels for one year
- Bold, complex and proudly bitter
- The essential ingredient in Argentina's famous Fernet con Coca
- 700ml bottle at 39% ABV
How to Make Fernet con Coca
Fernet con Coca, also called Fernet and cola, or FERNANDO, is one of Argentina's most recognisable mixed drinks. It is simple to prepare, but the ice, proportions and order of pouring make a difference.
What You Need
- A tall glass
- Plenty of ice
- Fernet-Branca
- Well-chilled cola
The Classic Method
- Fill a tall glass generously with ice.
- Add approximately one part Fernet-Branca.
- Slowly add approximately three parts chilled cola.
- Pour carefully to control the foam, then give it one gentle stir.
A ratio of roughly 30% Fernet-Branca to 70% cola is a good starting point. For a softer first drink, use a little less Fernet. For the bolder Argentine version, increase the measure until the balance is right for you.
Other Ways to Serve Fernet-Branca
Well Chilled
Serve a small measure in a chilled glass to experience the full intensity of its herbs, roots and spices.
Over Ice
Pour Fernet-Branca over ice for a slower serve. A little dilution opens the aromas and gradually softens the initial bitterness.
After Dinner
Fernet-Branca is traditionally served as an after-dinner amaro. Enjoy a small measure neat or over ice as the final drink around the table.
In Cocktails
Bartenders use Fernet-Branca to add herbal intensity, bitterness and spice to cocktails. Because its character is powerful, even a small measure can bring depth to a drink.
Born in Italy, Embraced by Argentina
Fernet-Branca was created in Milan, but Argentina made it part of everyday culture. Italian migration carried the tradition across the Atlantic, and over time Fernet mixed with cola became a drink connected with gatherings, music, barbecues, celebrations and long conversations between friends.
In Argentina, sharing a Fernet is rarely only about what is inside the glass. It is about who is standing beside you, who controls the pour, who believes their ratio is the only correct one and who manages to add the cola without creating a glass full of foam.
That is why Fernet-Branca belongs at Casa Argentina. We are not simply selling a bottle. We are helping create the special moments around it.
Product Details
- Product: Classic Fernet-Branca
- Producer: Fratelli Branca Distillerie
- Country of origin: Italy
- Created: Milan, 1845
- Category: Fernet / Italian herbal amaro
- Botanicals: 27 herbs, spices and roots from four continents
- Maturation: Rested in oak barrels for one year
- Bottle size: 700ml
- Alcohol by volume: 39% ABV
- Serving suggestion: With cola and ice, well chilled, over ice or in cocktails
Please note: Fernet-Branca bottles may be supplied with different label designs. The bottle you receive may therefore differ slightly from the product images shown. Always refer to the bottle for the most accurate and current product information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fernet-Branca?
Fernet-Branca is a classic Italian bitter herbal liqueur, or amaro, created in Milan in 1845. Its secret recipe contains 27 herbs, spices and roots sourced from four continents and is rested in oak barrels for one year.
Is this Fernet-Branca made in Italy or Argentina?
This bottle of classic Fernet-Branca is made in Italy by Fratelli Branca Distillerie. Fernet-Branca also has a long history and an exceptional cultural following in Argentina, where it is famously mixed with cola.
How strong is Fernet-Branca?
Classic Fernet-Branca contains 39% alcohol by volume. This bottle contains 700ml.
What is Fernet con Coca?
Fernet con Coca is the popular Argentine serve made by mixing Fernet-Branca with cola over plenty of ice. A ratio of approximately one part Fernet to three parts cola is a good place to begin.
What does Fernet-Branca taste like?
Fernet-Branca tastes intensely herbal, bitter and spicy, with earthy root notes, subtle menthol freshness and a long, dry finish. Cola softens the bitterness and creates a more rounded, approachable drink.
What is the difference between Fernet-Branca and Brancamenta?
Classic Fernet-Branca is bolder, drier and more intensely bitter, with the full herbal and root-led character of the original recipe. Brancamenta places refreshing Piedmontese peppermint at the centre of the flavour and is bottled at a lower strength of 28% ABV.
Does Fernet-Branca contain 27 herbs?
Its secret formula contains 27 herbs, spices and roots from four continents. The producer identifies examples including rhubarb, gentian, galangal and chamomile, but the complete recipe remains confidential.
Can I buy Fernet-Branca in the UK?
Yes. Casa Argentina offers classic Fernet-Branca 700ml for UK customers, subject to availability, delivery terms and age verification.
Ready to prepare a proper Fernet con Coca? Add classic Fernet-Branca 700ml to your basket, find a tall glass and make sure you have plenty of ice.
You must be 18 or over to purchase alcohol. Age verification may be required on delivery. Please enjoy responsibly.
