Nero Walnut Liqueur is a titillating blend of green walnuts and spices, infused with a glorious Pinot Noir. Crafted by Italian-born Edoardo Miroglio in the Thracian Valley, using traditional distillation techniques, this pure liqueur is a tribute to its ancient roots. Named after the infamously decadent emperor of Rome, Nero conjures up the sensuous spirit of this lavish lover of the arts. To be indulged neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite dessert or cocktail.
Alc: 25% | Type: Walnut Liqueur
Country: Bulgaria
With a delicate, fragrant flavor, Nero Walnut Liqueur is a classic liqueur made from organic black walnuts Ideal served straight, on the rocks or chilled in the freezer. A wonderful addition to espresso coffee and cappuccino.
Crack open the lavish allure of Nero Walnut Liqueur
Nero Walnut Liqueur, earning its name from Roman Emperor Nero, pays homage to its long and exciting history. The history of walnut liqueur began thousands of years ago when the Celts ruled central Europe. The introduction of this alcoholic elixir is thought to have originated from ancient Celtic legend and superstition, and its use continued through the Middle Ages by monks who adopted it for its medicinal properties to treat patients in monasteries as well as in ceremonies for its euphoric effects.
The ancestry of the green walnut, often referred to as the “Persian Walnut,” is said to have begun in Asia, making its way west via the Silk Road trade route through the Middle East. Walnuts held a special place in European history, esteemed in the ancient Mediterranean world for their recognizable healing potential. Ancient Greek physicians believed walnuts, when mixed with a variety of herbs, fruits and vegetables, to be capable of treating anything form inflammation to poison to bruises and even hair loss.
Its scientific name, Juglans regia, literally “the royal nut of Jupiter,” ––Jupiter being the king of all Roman gods––reflects its high place in ancient Roman society. It was then that the walnut garnered its reputation as an aphrodisiac, breath freshener and, due to its melatonin content, as a remedy for insomnia.
Walnut liqueur maintains its aura of mystique and superstitious allure. Ancient tradition requires the green walnuts used to infuse this liqueur with its distinct character be handpicked by barefoot virgins on June 24th, the marking of the pagan and Roman summer solstice, aka San Giovanni Day or St. John’s Day. Over time the traditions involved in the making of walnut liqueur have taken new shape, passed on through generations of families, most notably in the northern regions of Italy, where it is referred to as nocino.
Often blended with clove and cinnamon, this spicy, green walnut elixir continues to be revered as a delicious aperetif, digestif, or as the magic ingredient in a number of concoctions and sweet treats. See our recipes page for ideas on how to include Nero in your next cocktail or dessert.