Select, which was started in 1920, was designed as an aperitif, using 30 different botanicals to craft its unique taste. Obviously, it’s meant to be used as an aperitif or for making an amaro spritz, but one purpose of my reviews is always to gauge how a beverage stands on its own. Can you drink this as a before, or after dinner drink, or even with dinner? Given the name on its label the idea is that this is a before dinner drink, or cocktail (adding Prosecco and soda water). But like many of these botanical beverages common throughout Europe, this can indeed stand on its own. The leading note is sweet followed by bittering, and the clear notes of rhubarb, cherry and light guava, vanilla, and cardamom are evident and though sweet and bitter are not common to American audiences, this holds up well by itself. Select is a versatile version of such a tipple, and is actually quite soothing for after dinner as well as before. 92
Reviewed by Michael Cervin
Brand – Select
Spirit Type – Amaro
Other Designation – Liqueur
Country of Origin – Italy
ABV – 17.5%
Bottle Size – 750ml
Price – $25
Score – 92
Date Reviewed – 2/28/2024