A Refreshing Look At Mirto: Exploring The History And Uses

What is Mirto?

After a meal in Italy, it’s very common to linger over a small glass of mirto at the end of the meal. As the name implies, the alleged benefit as a digestive aid. More likely, the practice is to prolong the pleasure of dining with family or friends.

Mirto is a common flowering shrub in Sardinia. It produces tart, fragrant berries with a blue-violet color reminiscent of blueberries and unique taste that combines intense fruit notes with juniper, mint, and eucalyptus. After a long maceration period, the liquid is diluted with a syrup of water and sugar to achieve the correct balance between sweet notes and alcohol content until the base spirit absorbs the aromas, flavors and color of the fruit.

Exploding with flavor and aromas, It is strong and should be consumed with caution. Every Sardinian discovers this at one point or another growing up.

The myrtle plant is native to the Mediterranean Basin but thrives in Sardinia and Corsica. The berries are used to make the liquor, which is popular on the islands. Mirto is made by infusing myrtle berries or leaves in alcohol, water, and sugar or honey. It has a strong digestive systems making it popular as an after-dinner drink.

Is Mirto a blueberry?

No, it is not. Mirto is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, with small, dark-red berries that are used to make a popular liqueur in Italy and France. The berries are also sometimes used in cooking and baking, but they have a much different flavor than blueberries.

The Classic Sardinian Digestivo

Mirto is a popular liqueur in the mediterranean islands of Sardinia, Corsica and capraia. It is made from the fresh myrtle berries and is commonly consumed as a digestivo (digestive), adding a sweet finish after a meal or as an ‘ammazza caffe’ following a bitter coffee.

There are two types of Mirtos. The first is Mirto Bianco, produced with unripe, white berries or young leaves. Mirto Rosso is the sweeter variety that’s made from ripe berries of the black variety.

Since ancient times, Romans and Greeks have used myrtle plants in various ways. They used it as an ornament as well as an ointment to perfume the body.If you happen to find yourself dining out in Sardinia – or at Arco Cafe – don’t be surprised if someone asks you if you would like a Mirto to complete your meal.

Nutritional Values

This native Sardinian liqueur is made from myrtle berries, which have long been used for healing and looking since before Medieval Times. Traditionally, the plant is made into tea or extracted as an essential oil for skin health. There are several other health benefits of myrtle.

Studies suggest that myrtle has antibacterial properties, which means it could help prevent the growth of certain bacteria – listeria species, salmonella species, escherichia coli, bacillus subtilis, and staphylococcus aureus. Myrtle also contains high levels of antioxidants and tannins that may work well to reduce skin irritation and clear acne.

What are the benefits of drinking mirto?

The myrtle plant is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help protect cells from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation.it can also help stimulate the production of digestive juices and enzymes. Overall, drinking mirto can be a delicious way to enjoy some potential health benefits while savoring its unique flavor.

Popular Items with Mirto Liqueur

Arco Cafe is the place to go to experience Mirto in New York City. It is a digestive and is frequently served/consumed after a meal, but it is actually a versatile liquor that many people use. It can be used in cocktails, as an aperitif, or even in desserts. Our Sardinian menu offers Mirto di Sardegna on its own as well as cocktails made with Mirto. Mirto’s Revenge with whisky, ginger beer, and time. For something fruity, try the Berry Sparkler, made with prosecco, mirto, orange juice, and cranberry juice. Or you can have the Sardinian Sunrise, which has tequila, mirto, orange juice, and grenadine. Try it also with vodka or gin for if you are in the mood of exploring unusual combination.

Why Choose Arco Cafe?

Authentic Sardinian Italian cuisine is hard to come by, but Arco Cafe is proud to be the premier provider on New York City’s Upper West Side. We are open 7 days a week, always ready to satisfy your craving for Sardinian Italian food whenever it strikes. Alternatively, we are also available for delivery and takeout orders. In addition, we have a rewards program that gives you one point for every dollar spent. You ca use your points on your next online order or when you dine with us.

Order online or book a table now. For any other inquiries, call us at (646) 781-9080.