Afogatto’s New Best Friend

Okay, we’ve found our favourite treat of the summer so far. We are big fans of affogato here at RS, and when somebody gifted us a bottle of this lovely Cicchetto Nocino, one of our team instantly suggested we make affogato with it. Turned out to be a good idea because, upon closer inspection of the bottle, they actually have a recipe for affogato printed on the label!

Wait, before we get into that, let’s talk about Cicchetto. This brand was founded in 2020 by two friends with a goal to craft the best liqueurs, starting with Limone and Mandarino. Cicchetto has grown and evolved their portfolio, including this Nocino, a liqueur made from Niagara walnuts.

The short review is, it’s really nice.

The bottle and label feel premium. From the first taste you know this has been crafted thoughtfully. It feels like a nice blend of tradition and innovation. The flavour has a familiar walnutty warmth, but at the same time has a unique character that feels new. It’s kind of like that close high school friend who went away to university for four years and came back with a new level of sophistication and mystery.

Sipping, there is a pleasant, warm spice and big mouthfeel. It’s very sweet, but with the bitterness of the green walnuts to give it complexity. We tried it neat and over ice, as also suggested on the Cicchetto website, but found it a little intense.

When added to the affogato, it was pure heaven. The sweet and bitter notes pair perfectly with the espresso and mixed with the melting ice cream it becomes sensual symphony of flavour.  Our next move is a Nocino Spritz. I have  feeling a splash of bubby prosecco will open up the flavours of this Nocino in the most delightful way.

Try it out for yourself. Take a look at the Cicchetto website for more info, or pick it up at Stock t.c..