• Fernet-Branca has released a new limited-edition bottle design inspired by tattoo art.
• The bottle features artwork by multidisciplinary artist Austin England, who also designed merch exploring the tattoo-centric concept.

While Fernet-Branca’s flavor isn’t for everyone, something about this distinctive Italian amaro has won over legions of fans since its founding in 1845. The taste is complex and strong, and there’s no masking of the top-secret blend of 27 herbs and ingredients with sugar. It’s not surprising that it’s become known as the “bartender’s handshake,” a little insider nod and wink that you, too, pour and serve drinks for a living, and not just some patron ordering whatever’s popular and easy to quaff.

The acquired taste of Fernet-Branca has taken hold not only among barkeeps, but also among tattoo artists. The amaro’s equally singular branding and label design may even have helped it take hold among those who apply ink to skin for a living.