No drink is more closely associated with Córdoba than fernet con coca. While Fernet-Branca was first created in Milan, Italy, in 1845, it has found its true home in Argentina, particularly in the province of Córdoba, where the bittersweet spirit is almost always enjoyed mixed with Coca-Cola. Whether shared at a family barbecue, a football match or a New Year's celebration, a glass of fernet con coca has become a symbol of friendship, hospitality and good company.
At Estancia Los Potreros, New Year's Eve is always a memorable occasion, and this year we decided to put Argentina's favourite drink to the ultimate test.
Against the backdrop of one of our iconic Los Potreros New Year's Eve celebrations - with dinner beneath the stars, a spritz station and plenty of dancing - we organised a blind fernet tasting to discover whether the legendary Fernet-Branca could still claim the crown.
Seven different bottles of fernet were sourced from Argentina and the United Kingdom before being decanted into identical bottles to conceal their identities. Hidden among them was the original Fernet-Branca, leaving guests to rely solely on their taste buds to identify Argentina's most iconic bitter spirit.
The tasting revealed just how much the world of fernet has evolved. While Fernet-Branca remains the benchmark, famous for its bold herbal character and unmistakable minty finish, a new generation of craft producers is bringing exciting interpretations of this historic drink.
Among the Argentine contenders, Fernet Beney reflected the mountain herbs of the Sierras with a robust, earthy flavour, while Nero 53 offered a smoother, more refined style. Búho Negro impressed as a modern fernet designed specifically to pair with cola, and Fernet 1882, another favourite throughout Córdoba, delivered its distinctive citrus-forward profile that has earned it a loyal following across the province.
Perhaps the biggest surprise came from Britannica London Fernet, crafted in England. Rather than the assertive bitterness traditionally associated with fernet, it offered softer woodland botanicals alongside subtle notes of hazelnut and cacao, proving just how versatile this spirit can be.
After a night of celebrations, old friendships renewed and new ones formed, guests gathered once again on New Year's Day for a traditional Argentine asado. As everyone enjoyed a leisurely lunch together, the results of the blind tasting were finally revealed, with two delighted winners correctly identifying the genuine Fernet-Branca from the seven samples.
The competition reminded us that while there may be many excellent fernets to discover, fernet con coca is ultimately about far more than the drink itself. It represents gathering around the table, sharing stories, celebrating milestones and enjoying time with friends and family. At Estancia Los Potreros, that spirit of togetherness perfectly reflects the philosophy we live by: nothing without friendship.