Matchbook Distilling Co. 'Field Trip' Squash Amaro (34 proof)

Item Number: 19618

UPC: None

Country: USA
Region: New York
Sub Region: Long Island
Estate Grown Wine: No
Grape(s): Boston Marrow Squash / Spices
Type: Spirits - Liqueur & Amaro
Bottle Size: 750 ml
Pack: 12
Closure: T Top
Alc by Vol(%): 17

Matchbook Distilling took a chance on the giant, gourd-shaped Boston Marrow squash, selecting it from the Ark of Taste . The Ark of Taste is a Slow Food initiative that catalogs endangered heir-loom foods. Intrigued by its noted “vanilla custard” character, they partnered with Treiber Farms to cultivate a dedicated patch of this rare squash.

The result is a bold, harvest-born amaro that defies expectations. Crafted from over 2,500 lbs. of Boston Marrow squash, the process begins by sawing open each massive squash (some over 40 lbs.). The squash is then steamed and rolled in brown sugar mixed with cacao nibs, vanilla beans, cinnamon, and star anise. After, the squash is torched to caramelize the sugars and toast the spices. The caramelized squash is boiled to extract flavor and to carefully avoid the pectin-heavy pulp that could lead to off-flavors during fermentation.

The resulting liquid is racked and fermented for 4 days, developing vibrant acidity and an unexpectedly tropical passionfruit character, layered with warm spice and vanilla. The amaro is then fortified with a spice-aged cask extract. A small addition of amber Belgian candi syrup is added for body and gentle sweetness. Orris root and quassia provide a final touch of bitter, woody structure.