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Chris Brislawn’s Avatar Chris Brislawn
9th January at 00:03
This combination of flavors works really well together and is quite drinkable with more sensible proportions like 2:1:1 (2 parts rye), which is still pretty sweet. It also benefits from a couple dashes of black walnut bitters, as suggested by others, and from service over ice in an old-fashioned glass to keep it chilled for sipping and to enhance gradual dilution. I realize this makes it something different than what McDonnell may have been envisioning, but I just don't like mixing drinks beyond a certain level of sweetness.
Florian Ruf’s Avatar Florian Ruf
27th December 2025 at 22:06
I tried Amaro del capo, Borsaw Rye and Kopcke reserve port in equal measures, as this rye and port are not so strong and sweet. The resulting cocktail was very satisfying.
Florian Ruf’s Avatar Florian Ruf
27th December 2025 at 22:09
I forgot to mention, that I served it in a tumbler with a big ice cube.
Mike’s Avatar Mike
11th October 2025 at 23:56
Excellent drink, just a touch on the sweeter than 6. (I’d say 5). In my view, does not need bitters as the Averna fills that spot very nicely.

Averna, Rittenhouse, Sandeman 10 year Tawny.
Ian Cummins’ Avatar Ian Cummins
12th August 2025 at 03:51
I challenge you to make this with any fortified wine, similarly to how you can change the amaro used. It may come out sweeter, the walnut bitters others have mentioned would balance it out nicely.
John CARR’s Avatar John CARR
24th July 2025 at 15:29
Fancied Herbert’s suggestion of a dash of walnut bitters, added that bit of bite. Very pleasant.
Simon Sedgley’s Avatar Simon Sedgley
22nd July 2025 at 06:22
All great cocktails, in their simplicity and purity, irresistibly invite experimentation. With this one, we look forward to playing with the Amari and some bitters. To date, Nardini shines brightest as the Amaro for us.
Simon Sedgley’s Avatar Simon Sedgley
27th July 2025 at 14:43
Noticing the comments about adding bitters, we did something else by adding just 2.5ml Fernet. Gives the drink a bit of welcome 'edge' for us.
Herbert Brant’s Avatar Herbert Brant
13th November 2023 at 22:58
Wonderful warm and fragrant drink. My only suggestion is a couple of dashes of Black Walnut bitters. A new fave!
Frédéric Boulais’ Avatar Frédéric Boulais
17th July 2023 at 16:57
Excellent cocktail, sweet and bold flavors. The tawny Port and Averna play very well with each other. highly recommend.