Some spirits have always embodied the truest essence of Italy, proving their ability to evolve alongside modern mixology. Staying true to their identity while embracing new interpretations, they bridge past and present. This is precisely the spirit of OF Dorange by Bonollo 1908, not merely a liqueur but a statement of this evolution.
Encased in a bottle of warm, amber orange, it fuses the prestigious OF Amarone Barrique grappa with Sicilian orange peels, a union that bridges northern elegance with Mediterranean aromas, creating a sensory journey across Italy. “The first sip takes me back to my early days behind the bar,” says Umberto Oliva, mixologist from Oppido Mamertina, known for his ability to explore the aromatic potential of every ingredient while respecting its essence.
Sinensis, a Cocktail with OF Dorange by Umberto Oliva
“Bonollo has always had a strong presence in the South,” Oliva explains. But for him, memory isn’t about nostalgia — it’s a starting point for contemporary expression. Behind the bar OF Dorange by Bonollo 1908 finds its place in Sinensis, a refined cocktail masterfully crafted by Oliva himself. “Aperitif liqueurs often have a pronounced sweetness. The challenge was to build a drink that preserved the liqueur’s identity while enhancing its unique organoleptic qualities. Sinensis is a modern, Sazerac-style creation, striking a delicate balance between sweetness, bitterness, and aromatic complexity. The esters from the aged grappa blend seamlessly with the bright citrus notes of Dorange, creating an intriguing flavor profile.”
A Sophisticated Creation
Technically sophisticated in its execution, the cocktail is built around a chicory coffee distillate, repurposed into a cordial that harmonizes with the orange notes. Chicory molasses provides the bitter backbone, softened by Pedro Ximénez sherry, which adds hints of date and caramelized depth. Fino sherry brings saline and oxidative nuances, while 45 ml of OF Dorange gives the drink its signature charisma. The final touch? A garnish as irresistible as the drink itself: white chocolate, coffee, Maldon salt, and orange zest, a finishing flourish that all but guarantees a second round.
The article first appeared on Coqtail – for fine drinkers. Order your copy here
Photo by Julie Couder, location Nik’s & Co. – all rights reserved
In partnership with Bonollo 1908
