While this is inspired by classic European bitter liqueurs, it is however a uniquely Australian aperitif, built around native botanicals. Produced from a spirit base of Adelaide Hills apples, it’s infused with ingredients including strawberry gum, riberry, rosella, Davidson plum, wattleseed and native citrus, alongside traditional bittering botanicals. The result is a vibrant ruby-red aperitif layered with notes of blood orange, red berries, spice and herbal complexity. Naturally coloured, this sits at the more bitter end of bitter liqueurs, but it’s nicely balanced with sweetness. It’s best served over ice, lengthened with soda or mixed into a spritz.

It does have a natural sediment in bottle, that settles out nicely in the fridge. 

Applewood Distillery was founded in 2012 by Brendan and Laura Carter in South Australia's Adelaide Hills, with a mission to create spirits that express the flavours and ingredients of the Australian landscape. Working closely with local growers and foragers, the distillery has become a pioneer in the use of native botanicals.