Bruto Americano is a bold, red bittersweet aperitivo (American take on Italian-style bitter liqueurs) from St. George Spirits in California. It blends bright citrus, woodsy botanicals, and gentian bitterness to deliver something both familiar and distinct perfect for Negronis, spritzes, or sipping with soda. At 24% ABV, it balances flavor intensity with drinkability.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Feature Detail Producer St. George Spirits, Alameda, California. Type / Style Aperitivo / Americano / Bitter style liqueur a red bitter in the tradition of Campari or Italian amari. ABV 24% alcohol by volume. Size 750 ml.

Ingredients & Flavor Sources

• Main bitterness source: gentian root.

• Citrus from California-grown Seville orange.

• Woodsy / forest note from balsam fir.

• Bark from Cascara sagrada (California buckthorn) adds woody, earthy tones.

• Coloring: naturally with cochineal, giving it a ruby-red hue.

Tasting Profile

Sense Notes Nose / Aroma Vibrant citrus (Seville orange), a bright zing up front; supporting aromas of cinnamon, sandalwood, and forest / piney woods. Palate / Taste Begins with pronounced bitterness (gentian) that transitions into herbal mid-palate; flavors of orange peel, wood, soft warm spices. Finish Bitter / citrus lingering finish with dry herbal / woodsy edges. Not overly sweet; does not linger in syrupy fashion.

Strengths & What Makes It Unique

• More bitter and herbaceous than many sweet aperitivos: good for those who like bitter styles (e.g. Campari type) but want a woodier, more Californian twist.

• Botanical makeup gives depth: the balsam fir and cascara sagrada add forest, resin, and bark textures rarely found in standard amaros/apertifs.

• Natural coloring, solid craft credentials, and a versatile ABV thats not too hot for mixed drinks.

Suggested Usage & Cocktail Ideas

Here are ways to enjoy Bruto Americano:

• Bruto & Soda: 2 oz Bruto Americano over ice, topped with soda water. Garnish with grapefruit peel.

• Negroni Variation (American Werewolf): Replace Campari with Bruto for woodsy bitterness + Seville orange high notes.

• Boulevardier or Americano twist: Swap in Bruto for the bitter component in classic bitter/aperitif cocktails.

• Spritzes or highballs: Use with sparkling wine or tonic for lighter, bright aperitif style drinks.