Word Wednesday - Digestif

~ After last week's exploration into Aperitifs and a week of excellent KC food and beverage, we headed back to The Rieger for a nightcap. ~

What is it? Digestif is the French word for "digestive," and the beverage is meant to live up to it's name - helping you assimilate your dinner. The actual digestive properties are debated, but there's nothing quite like winding down after a good meal with a glass of bourbon or brandy to round out your evening. Unlike aperitifs, which are meant to stimulate the appetite and are generally dry and low in alcohol content, digestifs tend to be higher in alcohol and sweetness. Common classics include whiskey, port wines, sherry and liquor, as well as spirits crafted specifically as digestifs with herbs and spices, such as Fernet Branca, Benedictine and Chartreuse. 

The Rieger's cocktail list offered several digestif options, and the two we imbibed were excellent. Pulling from Food Republic and The Kitchn's lists of staples, the Play it Again Sam fit the bill perfectly - J. Rieger & Co. KC Whiskey, Yellow Chartreuse, cream sherry and Burlesque bitters. The Pendergast  was also delightful and my personal favorite of the two - Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Dolin Rouge, Benedictine and Angostura bitters. 

VinePair has more info on differentiating between aperitifs and digestifs, and Liquor.com brings up more traditional European classics. What are some of your favorites? Tell us below!  

- Sadie 

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