Paul Kushner
The Fanciulli is a bold, spirit-forward cocktail rooted in classic proportions but given a unique edge with the addition of Fernet-Branca. Smooth bourbon meets the richness of sweet vermouth, while Fernet adds a brisk, herbal finish that sets this drink apart.
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Tasting Notes
The Fanciulli is deep, dry, and assertive. Bourbon provides a solid base with notes of oak, caramel, and spice. Sweet vermouth adds just enough herbal sweetness to soften the whiskey’s edges, while a small measure of Fernet-Branca sharpens the finish with minty, bitter complexity. It’s a stirred cocktail that opens smoothly and finishes strong, with each ingredient building upon the next. The drink is balanced yet bold, ideal for those who enjoy darker profiles and minimal sweetness. It’s a bracing cocktail that lingers, both in flavor and mood, and invites slow, focused sipping.
Equipment and Glassware
Making a Fanciulli requires basic yet essential bar tools: a mixing glass, bar spoon, jigger, Hawthorne strainer, and your choice of cocktail glass. Stirring the drink, not shaking ensures proper dilution and clarity. A chilled coupe or Nick and Nora glass works best to present the drink neat and cold. Large ice cubes are preferred for mixing to avoid over-dilution. A fine mesh strainer can be used to remove any ice shards for a cleaner finish. No garnish is needed, but a lemon twist may be used if a touch of brightness is desired.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 0.75 oz sweet vermouth
- 0.25 oz Fernet-Branca
Instructions
- Add bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir steadily for 15–20 seconds, until well chilled and slightly diluted.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Serve neat.
Pro Tips
- Use a higher-proof bourbon to stand up to the Fernet
- Chill the mixing glass and glassware beforehand
- Stir gently and consistently to achieve proper dilution
- Use quality sweet vermouth and store it refrigerated after opening
- Do not exceed 0.25 oz of Fernet, its flavor dominates easily
- A lemon twist can add a light aromatic layer if desired
- Always strain finely to remove ice shards for a clean finish
- This cocktail does not require a garnish, keeping it minimal and sharp
When to Serve
The Fanciulli fits best into cool-weather evenings or any time you want something focused and no-nonsense. It’s perfect for after dinner, slow weekends, or quiet nightcaps. The minty bite of Fernet adds a refreshing finish without needing citrus, and the deep whiskey base gives it backbone and presence. This drink isn’t built for summer patios or big gatherings, it’s more at home in dim lighting, small groups, and quiet moments. Serve it when you’d otherwise reach for a Manhattan or Old Fashioned, but want something a little darker and more layered.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Bourbon: Old Forester, Elijah Craig, Four Roses Small Batch
- Sweet Vermouth: Carpano Antica, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, Dolin Rouge
- Fernet: Fernet-Branca
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 0.75 oz sweet vermouth
- 0.25 oz Fernet-Branca
Instructions
- Add bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir steadily for 15–20 seconds, until well chilled and slightly diluted.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Serve neat.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use a bold, high-proof bourbon to stand up to the intensity of Fernet.
- Chill the glass in advance to maintain temperature without needing ice.
- Garnish is optional, but an orange twist adds a nice aromatic contrast.
