Heirloom Alchermes is a scarlet, spice-driven liqueur — a modern American take on a centuries-old Italian recipe — and it is poured at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. Made by Heirloom Liqueurs in Minneapolis, it revives alchermes, the fabled crimson cordial once prized across Italy and used in classic Tuscan desserts. We keep it on the list as a beautiful, aromatic curiosity, a glass with real history behind its color.
About the Producer
Heirloom Liqueurs is the creation of Nick Kosevich and Ira Koplowitz, the team also known for Bittercube bitters. Their liqueurs are produced in Minneapolis, and their Alchermes is billed as the only alchermes made in America. The project grew out of years of crafting house liqueurs for bars and restaurants, and reflects a deep respect for traditional European recipes recreated with care.
Style & Production
Alchermes is a historic spiced liqueur whose roots trace back over a thousand years, traveling from the Middle East into Europe, where it became a treasured cordial. Heirloom’s version is built on warm baking botanicals such as cinnamon and clove, softened with rose water and vanilla bean. Its signature scarlet hue comes from cochineal, the natural coloring traditionally used for alchermes, giving it the deep red appearance that defines the style.
Tasting Notes
The aroma is warm and fragrant — cinnamon, clove and rose lifting from the glass. On the palate it is sweet and spiced, with baking-spice warmth, floral rose water and a soft vanilla roundness. The finish is gently spiced and aromatic, lingering with that distinctive rose-and-clove character.
What to Pair It With
Its spiced sweetness suits the dessert course. Pour it alongside Mama’s Tiramisu, with our Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta, or beside a Charcuterie Board. See the full dine-in menu for more.
How It’s Served at Grappa
Heirloom Alchermes is poured at $13, served neat at room temperature so its aromas open fully.
FAQ
Where is it from?
It is made in Minneapolis by Heirloom Liqueurs, the makers behind Bittercube bitters, and is billed as the only alchermes produced in America.
What does it taste like?
It is sweet and spiced, with cinnamon and clove, floral rose water and a soft vanilla roundness, finishing gently aromatic.
Why is it bright red?
Alchermes is traditionally colored with cochineal, a natural red coloring, which gives this historic liqueur its signature scarlet hue.
When you’re ready, book a table, explore the cocktail & spirits list, and browse the dine-in menu.
