彭特月

Punt e Mes is a classic Italian vermouth with a bold, bittersweet personality, famous for its deep amber colour, assertive flavour, and unique balance between sweet and bitter botanicals. Produced by Carpano, the legendary Turin-based vermouth house founded in 1786, Punt e Mes is often described as the bridge between traditional sweet vermouth and amaro, making it a favourite among bartenders and adventurous drinkers alike.

Origins and History

The name “Punt e Mes” translates from Piedmontese dialect as “point and a half,” referring to its distinctive flavour profile: one point of sweetness and half a point of bitterness. According to legend, the name was coined in 1870 when a stockbroker at a Turin bar ordered his usual Carpano vermouth but requested it with an extra “half measure” of bitter liqueur. The resulting drink became so popular that Carpano decided to bottle it as its own product.

Since then, Punt e Mes has retained its reputation as a vermouth with character, slightly more bitter and robust than standard rosso vermouths, yet still versatile enough for both sipping and mixing.

Production

Punt e Mes is made by infusing a base wine with a carefully selected mix of herbs, roots, and spices. While Carpano’s exact botanical recipe is a closely guarded secret, the blend is known to include:
• Wormwood (for its traditional vermouth bitterness).
• Quinine (adding a sharp, tonic-like edge).
• Citrus peel, cinnamon, and other spices for warmth and complexity.

The botanicals are macerated in alcohol and combined with caramelised sugar, giving Punt e Mes its signature deep colour and rich, bittersweet profile.

Flavour Profile

Punt e Mes is richer and more bitter than most sweet vermouths, making it a distinctive choice for cocktails. Its profile can be described as:
• Nose - spiced orange, dried herbs, vanilla, and a hint of quinine bitterness.
• Palate - a complex interplay of caramel sweetness, citrus zest, wormwood bitterness, and warm spice.
• Finish - long, dry, and slightly herbal, with lingering amaro-like notes.

Serving Suggestions

Because of its pronounced bitterness, Punt e Mes works beautifully in cocktails that need more depth than standard sweet vermouth can provide. Popular serves include:
• Negroni - swapping standard vermouth for Punt e Mes gives a more assertive, complex drink.
• Manhattan - adds a bittersweet edge to the classic rye-based cocktail.
• Americano - refreshing and slightly bitter with soda water and a slice of orange.
• On the rocks - with a twist of orange peel for an aperitivo-style serve.

It’s also a great option for creative twists on boulevardiers, martinis, and other classic drinks.

Our Selection

Our Punt e Mes offering comes direct from Carpano in Italy, ensuring the authentic flavour and quality that has made it a staple behind the world’s best bars. Whether you’re a home mixologist seeking to upgrade your cocktails or simply enjoy a bittersweet aperitivo, Punt e Mes delivers a taste of Italian tradition with a bold, modern edge.