Description
This is a refined and historic-style aperitif wine—rich in botanical character, with cinchona (quinine) bitterness balanced by golden-honey sweetness, bright citrus and herbal depth. Ideal either sipped chilled or used in elevated cocktails, it offers old-world charm with modern versatility.
Origins & Craftsmanship –
Produced by Tempus Fugit Spirits, this vin apéritif is inspired by the late-19 th / early-20 th-century French “kina/quinquina” category. It is based on white wine made from Piedmont-grown Cortese grapes and infused with botanicals such as cinchona bark (the source of quinine), orange peel, wormwood and other exotic spices. The result: a pale golden-amber aperitif, 18% ABV (36 proof) bottled in 750 ml format.
The name “L’Aéro d’Or” (literally “The Golden Aeroplane”) pays tribute to the first flight across the English Channel in 1909 and evokes the spirit of adventure and the golden era of aperitifs.
Critics Reviews –
As noted by reviewers, the aperitif “displays aromas of quince and fine marmalade, and a complex, mildly bitter taste with a well-balanced sweet finish.” One industry guide describes it as: “Clear, pale to mid-canary yellow. Aroma of orange zest/marmalade, clove, vanilla, elderflower and génépi. Taste: Bittersweet, citrusy, mild quinine, flowers and warming spice. Finish: Bitter, barky, lightly spicy with elderflower blossom.”
Another commentary emphasises that it is “a brilliant, old-school quinquina… a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts curious about historical aromatised wines.”
Tasting Profile –
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Nose: Bright peel of orange and grapefruit, quince jam, fine marmalade, soft herbal notes of gentian and wormwood, subtle vanilla and dried flowers.
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Palate: Smooth and moderately viscous; initial burst of bittersweet citrus peel and marmalade sweetness, followed by firm cinchona bitterness, herbs (gentian/wormwood) and spice (clove or cardamom).
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Finish: Long and layered—quinine linger, dried orange peel, faint spice and herbal dryness leaving a crisp, vibrant after-taste that invites another sip.
Quick Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| ABV / Proof | 18% ABV (36 proof) |
| Origin / Region | Switzerland / Inspired by French-style aperitif wines (quinquinas) |
| Production / Base | White wine (Cortese grape) infused with cinchona bark, orange peel, wormwood & spices |
| Aging / Maturation | No extended aging; focuses on freshness and botanical infusion |
| Aromas & Flavors | Orange peel, marmalade, quince, quinine bitterness, wormwood, dried flowers |
| Style / Identity | Aperitif wine in the quinquina/“kina” style—bitter/sweet botanical-wine ideal for sipping or cocktails |
Reviews
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