Luxardo is one of the oldest European firms producing liqueurs and spirits, and Maraschino Originale is one of its signature products, produced according to a special formula created by Girolamo Luxardo in 1821. Once Luxardo marasca cherries are harvested at the beginning of every summer, they are put in alcoholic infusion in larch-wood vats together with some leaves and branches of the same trees for up to three years. When ready, both the liquid and the solid parts are distilled in traditional copper pot stills, and only the heart of the distillate is taken for ageing in ash-wood vats. Finally, the spirit is made into a liqueur by adding a simple syrup and lowering the ABV to 32%. The up-front flavour is very floral with a handful of pine and tree bark. The mild, nutty mid-palate comes from the cherry pits and is very subtle. Luxardo finishes out with a peppermint candy freshness that cleanses the palate nicely. The texture is dense and syrupy, coating the mouth. Can also be used for classic cocktails such as a Blood and Sand or Singapore Sling.