If you are planning to visit Argentina within the next months, there is a list of things you might be wondering about the city. Some of them are what to do, what to eat (and what not to) and what to drink. This is a really simple list, and today we are going to focus on the item number three: What are the MUST DRINK of Buenos Aires. To be honest, I’m not an eminence on the drinking world, specially because I can barely remember what I drink. So I always avoid thinking, and try to remember one survival phrase: Un Fernet Por Favor! You can skip the Por Favor, if that’s too much to remember. Or if you just want your drink and avoid establishing a sentimental relationship with the bartender, just remember one word: Fernet!. Please take note of this word. Put it in your wallet, right next to your mother’s picture, because believe me, you are going to need it.
So, what is Fernet? Technically, is an Italian digestive with 150-year history. It is a bitter balsam, extracted from many herbs and spices (saffron is one of 40 components) and then aged in oak barrels for at least one year. It was traditionally served at the end of the meal as it is supposed to help you digest food as well as to “clean” the tongue. However, I would say that in these days, It is served after a few beers, and it only helps you have a great night.
So, one more time, remember this word each time you walk into a bar, and be prepared to drink what argentines (and Italians) drink, and come back home with little idea of what you did at night, but with your tongue super clean!
Cheers!
Jose
Tags: buenos aires culture, fernet, Nightlife
