Mondino Senza

Photo: Oliver Schwarzwald

A bitter from Bavaria 

With Mondino Senza, the Schnitzer distillery produces a non-alcoholic amaro that convinces me. The term Amaro (Italian amaro for bitter) is typically only used for liqueurs produced in Italy. Mondino comes from Traunstein, which is in Bavaria, so Italy is within sight! The recipe has unmistakably Italian roots and all the characteristics of an amaro. Clearly in the foreground is the fine bitter aroma. That's what makes these aperitifs. In this case, however, the emphasis is on fine, it is not extremely bitter. A tonic fits perfectly in the glass without tying your taste buds in knots. I'm a bit squeamish about that. It can be "not too" bitter. Fresh citrus aromas mix with a subtle orange note. Grape aromas form a fruity underpinning and make this aperitif an uncomplicated non-alcoholic drink. I have tried Mondino Senza neat, with soda, tonic and also as a sprizz with non-alcoholic sparkling wine, all variations are great! It definitely doesn't need alcohol. On the contrary, it always annoyed me in the Amaro classics like Jägermeister or Fernet Branca. It doesn't make these drinks any more delicious, be honest! The perfect marketing campaigns, such as those by Jägermeister, have not failed to have an effect on me either. It's amazing what I used to drink and why. I'm even more pleased about every good non-alcoholic alternative! On top of that, so beautifully designed. Wonderful.