Punt e Mes is beloved by mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts for its distinctive taste and its ability to elevate classic cocktails with its bittersweet complexity.  Punt e Mes originated in Turin, Italy, in the late 19th century. The name “Punt e Mes” is in the Piedmontese dialect and translates to “point and a half,” which refers to the traditional recipe’s one-part sweet vermouth and half-part bitter.  The production of Punt e Mes involves a careful blending and aging process to achieve its unique flavor profile. It’s produced by Carpano, an Italian company renowned for its vermouths.  While the exact recipe for Punt e Mes is a closely guarded secret, it typically includes a blend of white and red wines infused with various botanicals such as gentian, rhubarb, and wormwood.  It also contains caramelized sugar for sweetness and coloring.

Base:                               Red wine, white wine, gentian, rhubarb, wormwood

Flavor is most like:       Orange peel, caramel

Sweetness (1 to 5):       3

Description:                    Nice use as an aperitif (before meals) or digestif (after meals).  The sweetness and light alcohol percentage make it easy to add to cocktails without overtaking the drink.

ABV:                                 16%