Why Alchermes Should Be a Staple in Every Dessert Lover’s Kitchen
The name “Alchermes” derives from the Arabic al-qirmiz, meaning “cochineal,” in reference to the insect used to obtain the characteristic red color of the liqueur. Introduced to Italy by the Arabs via Spain, Alchermes found its greatest diffusion in Florence during the Renaissance, thanks to the Medici family, who were huge admirers of it. For this reason, it was known as the “Medici liqueur” in France.
The Basics
- Origin: Italy, with historical roots dating back to the Middle Ages.
- Main Ingredients: alcohol, sugar, rose water, cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, cardamom, and, traditionally, cochineal for coloring.
- Alcohol Content: Generally between 21% and 32%.
- Use MUse:ly in pastry making for the preparation of desserts such as zuppa inglese, sweet peaches, and zuccotto fiorentino.
Production Method
The traditional preparation of Alchermes involves the infusion of an alcoholic base with a mixture of spices and aromas, including cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, and cardamom. Rose water is added to these, which gives a distinctive floral note. The original red color was obtained by adding cochineal, a natural colorant derived from the insect of the same name. Today, for ethical and health reasons, many producers use alternative colorants.
Organoleptic Characteristics
Alchermes has an intense and brilliant red color. On the nose, it offers a complex aromatic bouquet, dominated by spicy notes of cinnamon and cloves, accompanied by floral hints of roses and vanilla. On the palate it is sweet, with a syrupy consistency and a persistent finish, characterized by a harmonious balance between spices and sugary sweetness.
Use in Pastry
In Italy, Alchermes is a fundamental ingredient in numerous confectionery preparations:
- Zuppa Inglese: a dessert made with sponge cake or ladyfingers soaked in Alchermes, alternating with layers of custard and chocolate cream.
- Sweet Peaches: peaches filled and joined in pairs, soaked in Alchermes to obtain the typical pink color and characteristic aroma.
- Zuccotto Fiorentino: made from sponge cake soaked in Alchermes, filled with cream, and covered in chocolate or cocoa.
Prices
- Alchermes Santa Maria Novella: the most iconic, produced according to the ancient recipe of the Florentine convent. Price: about 40-50 euros for 500 ml. This product offers a high-quality experience with refined aromatic notes.
- Alchermes Girolamo Luxardo. It is a cost-effective and well-liked option, boasting a traditional aromatic profile. Price: around 15–20 euros for 700 mL.
- Alchermes Giuliani. This product is ideal for use in pastry making. Price: about 12–18 euros for 700 mL. This versatile liqueur is ideal for creating classic desserts such as zuppa inglese or for adding a unique twist to cocktails.
Curiosity
- Elixir of Long Life. In the Middle Ages, alchermes was considered a medicinal elixir, believed to be capable of prolonging life and curing various ailments.
- Natural Coloring. Alchermes has also been used as a food coloring, for example, in the preparation of Prato mortadella.
