Luxardo Sangue Morlacco: A Deep Dive into the Blood of the Morlaccos
Luxardo Sangue Morlacco is a cherry liqueur steeped in history and flavour. Its name, translating to “Blood of the Morlaccos,” pays homage to a tribe of warriors who fought alongside Venice. But beyond the evocative moniker lies a luxurious liquid, brimming with intense cherry notes and a touch of history in every sip.
This detailed tasting note will explore the depths of Sangue Morlacco, guiding you through its aroma, flavour profile, and ideal serving suggestions. So, uncork a bottle, settle in, and prepare to discover the essence of Marasca cherries, captured in a bottle by Luxardo.
Visual Appearance:
Sangue Morlacco boasts a clear, deep red colour. It’s reminiscent of a ripe, jewel-toned cherry, hinting at the intensity of flavour to come. As you swirl the liqueur in the glass, it displays a good viscosity, clinging to the sides for a moment before slowly releasing.
Aroma:
The first impression on the nose is a burst of freshly squeezed Marasca cherries. It’s an intense, almost heady aroma, yet undeniably clean and inviting. Hints of almond and marzipan peek through the cherry dominance, adding a touch of complexity. There’s a subtle suggestion of oak in the background, a whisper from the two-year aging process in oak vats.
Palate:
The first sip of Sangue Morlacco delivers on the promise of the aroma. The flavour is intense and rich, dominated by sweet, ripe cherries. The sweetness is balanced by a pleasant tartness, ensuring the liqueur doesn’t become cloying. The oak influence is more pronounced on the palate than on the nose, adding a touch of vanilla and spice that complements the cherry character. The texture is luxuriously thick and syrupy, coating the tongue in a delightful way.
Finish:
The finish is long and lingering, leaving a warm, pleasant sensation of cherry and almond. The sweetness fades slowly, allowing the subtle oaky notes to linger on the palate.
Serving Suggestions:
Sangue Morlacco’s versatility makes it a perfect addition to your drinks repertoire. Here are some ways to enjoy it:
Neat or on the Rocks: This is a great way to appreciate the full flavour profile of the liqueur. Serve it chilled in a small liqueur glass or snifter for a luxurious after-dinner treat.
In Classic Cocktails: Sangue Morlacco elevates classic cocktails like the Black Manhattan, Blood and Sand, or Singapore Sling. Its rich cherry character adds depth and complexity to these well-known drinks.
Desserts: Drizzle Sangue Morlacco over vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or a decadent chocolate cake for a touch of boozy elegance. It also pairs beautifully with aged cheeses like a sharp cheddar or a creamy gorgonzola.
Pairing with Chocolate: Sangue Morlacco’s sweetness complements the bitterness of dark chocolate perfectly. Enjoy a small sip of the liqueur alongside a dark chocolate square for a delightful taste sensation.
Food Pairing:
Beyond desserts, Sangue Morlacco can also be enjoyed alongside specific food pairings.
Deeper Meats: The liqueur’s sweetness cuts through the richness of duck, venison, or lamb dishes.
Spicy Food: The sweetness of Sangue Morlacco can help tame the heat of spicy curries or Szechuan cuisine.
In Conclusion:
Luxardo Sangue Morlacco is more than just a cherry liqueur; it’s an experience. Its rich history, intense flavour profile, and versatility make it a welcome addition to any well-stocked bar. So, raise a glass to the warriors of the past, and indulge in the luxurious taste of Sangue Morlacco.
