Potent! Recognisably an old fashioned, the amaro creates a similar effect to Averna in a black Manhattan. I’d be interested to try a nonino version to see whether it’s a bit more relaxed.

Boozy heat from the bourbon is the dominant player, but the rich sweetness of the Benedictine smooths things out, and the herbs/botanicals of the amaro couple with the Ango (and saline) to create a unique twist on a bourbon old-fashioned. Excellent cocktail.

Herbal complexity and a tad of bitterness add another layer of pleasure to an old fashioned. Nice !