Tempus Fugit Kina L'Aero

I had high hopes for this bottle, but sadly, I don't find it nearly as good as many others seem to. This bottle is intended to be a close recreation of Kina Lillet, a long-discontinued aperitif from the past (most famously used in the Vesper cocktail). From what I've gathered, Kina Lillet was quite heavy on the quinine, which I don't believe this product is. The nose is dominated by orange notes, with a hint of vanilla. The initial sips offer some bitterness, but the quinine is more subdued. It does have a syrupy texture. The orange flavors persist on the palate. The finish is brief, with no burn and notes of elderflower and a touch of spice. Overall, it's acceptable and functions well as an aperitif. However, I can't shake the feeling that this is simply a much milder version of Kina Lillet. I don't doubt it's well-crafted and might even resemble Kina Lillet's original taste, but if so, it didn't astound me. It's sufficiently decent, but I wouldn't make a special effort to purchase it unless you are a dedicated fan of the Vesper cocktail, as this does make a better Vesper than Lillet Blanc.

An intense, Aromatized Wine from Switzerland, crafted with Cortese grapes from Piedmont, Italy, and infused with botanicals like South American cinchona bark, wormwood, orange peel & spices. It begins aromatically with notes of citrus, herbs & spices; its mid-palate adds notes of quince jam, orange marmalade & dessert wine; concluding with a long & bitter finish featuring notes of wormwood. June 2023

A wonderfully aromatic aperitif wine. It begins with sweet floral notes and smooth berry flavors, concluding with a bitter edge. This, alongside Cocchi Americano, is my preference for a Vesper cocktail.

Pleasant when used in a Vesper, serving as an alternative to Cocchi Americano.