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With the low alcohol cocktail trend in full swing and the never ending desire of bartenders to create complexity in unique drinks, Amaro is having a moment. Amaro technically refers to a group of Italian bitter liqueurs, literally translating as ‘bitter.’ More commonly, however, it refers to any and all bitter liqueurs, regardless of country of origin. Amaros have an alcohol content ranging from 16% abv to 40% abv and get their flavor from a, usually secret, combination of herbs, botanicals and roots. Like many delicious potables, amaros have a medicinal history, enjoyed for their curative properties before being appreciated for the complexity of flavor they offer.

The mezcal industry is experiencing a huge explosion of quality, investment, and new brands; one of the things that sets Rey Campero apart it is that it is a 100% family owned brand made exclusively by master distiller Romulo Sanchez who has generations of masters behind him. Sanchez proudly states “we are sons of master mezcaleros, so we have the love for the fields and the mezcal.”

Cabernet Franc is best known for its value in Bordeaux blends, adding acidity, tannin, and savory bell pepper flavors. Occasionally, it has been known to make a 100% varietal wine in the Loire Valley of France, where it produces easy drinking medium bodied wines that lean toward dry earthy flavors and hints of spice. Now, following in the footsteps of another famous Bordeaux blending grape, Malbec, it seems to be coming into its own as a stand alone grape for American winemakers.