Take on a journey to the cozy slopes of the Italian Alps with the Bombardino, a delightful winter warmer that combines the rich flavors of eggnog and brandy.
Literally translated as “the bomb” in Italian, il Bombardino is the well-deserved reward for skiers after an exhilarating day on the slopes — and for anyone weathering the “bomb cyclone” on the East Coast. This winter cocktail, warm and reminiscent of eggnog, originated in northern Lombardia and has become a beloved tradition across the Italian Alps.
According to legend, the Bombardino was conceived by a young man hailing from the port city of Genova, who traded the sea for a life in the Italian Alps. After serving as an officer in the Alpini, the oldest active mountain infantry in the world, he opened a ski lodge in Lombardia. One fateful day, four weary skiers emerged from a blizzard, yearning for something warm and rich to counteract the biting cold.
Thinking on his feet, the Genovese mixed together cream, whiskey, and zabaglione (an egg-based custard), bringing the concoction almost to a boiling point. When one of the skiers took a sip, he exclaimed, “Accidenti! È una bomba!” which translates to “Damn! It’s a bomb!” From that moment on, word spread, and skiers from near and far sought out the Genovese’s signature creation: the Bombardino.
As time passed, the recipe evolved into a perfected blend of creamy egg liqueur, choice brandy, all topped with a decadent layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Bombardino Ingredients
- Advocaat (60 ml / 2 ounces):
- Advocaat, a rich and creamy Dutch liqueur made from eggs, sugar, and brandy, forms the luscious base of the Bombardino.
- Brandy (30 ml / 1 ounce):
- Brandy, with its warming and robust character, complements the creamy Advocaat, adding depth and complexity to the cocktail.
- Whipped Cream
- Top the beverage with some delicious whipped cream.
- Optional Garnish:
- A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg serves as a delightful garnish, enhancing both the visual appeal and the aromatic experience of the Bombardino.
Bombardino Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Advocaat and Brandy Mix
When the Advocaat is hot (but not yet at boiling point), slowly add it to the brandy in a heat-resistant mug.
Combine 60 ml (2 ounces) of Advocaat and 30 ml (1 ounce) of brandy. Stir the mixture gently to ensure the two ingredients are well integrated.
Step 2: Top with Whipped Cream
Top the cocktail with a generous amount of whipped cream. Dont be shy.
Step 3: Optional Garnish
For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the Bombardino. The aromatic spices add a festive nuance to the cocktail.
The Cozy Tradition of Bombardino
As you indulge in the velvety warmth of the Bombardino, you’re not just sipping a cocktail – you’re partaking in a cherished winter tradition.
Whether enjoyed by the fireside, après-ski, or as a soothing nightcap, the Bombardino embodies the essence of comfort and relaxation during the colder months.
So, as the snow falls outside, wrap yourself in a blanket, cradle a steaming Bombardino in your hands, and let the rich flavors transport you to the snowy peaks of the Italian Alps.
Cheers to the art of crafting a winter classic that brings warmth to both body and soul!
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