Appenzell is a small mountain town in Northern Switzerland and is best known for Appenzeller cheese but less known for Alpenbitter, a type of schnapps. Made with the extracts of 42 herbs, roots and spices, it also uses Cognac, caramel, various wines and flowers. The full list of ingredients is not disclosed, though it definitely has noticeable caramel and anise. The recipe was created in 1902 and is specific to the region, the mountainous terrain providing distinctive flowers and wild herbs. The dominant aromatic note is star anise, followed closely by caramel. It’s sweet, and has herbal notes, cola, resin and a kind of medicinal quality. Often served in the Appenzell region as a digestive, it’s unique to the Germanic north of Switzerland. Certainly this can be mixed with soda water, served on the rocks (my preference), or you can try and find a companion mixer. A fine, unique beverage that defines its place of origin.
Reviewed by Michael Cervin
Brand – Appenzeller
Spirit Type – Alpine Bitters
Other Designation – Digestif
Country of Origin – Switzerland
ABV – 29%
Bottle Size – 1 liter
Price – $90
Score – 92
Date Reviewed – 3/31/23