One of my favorite ways to travel is by glass. A sip of Corsican quinquina (a red vermouth aperitif) topped with a splash of red wine and bubbles and a punchy sprig of mint and I’m transported to a beach blanket on the Mediterranean coast at sunset. The Veritas (a cousin of the Kalimotxo: wine and cola) or a Tinto de Verano (red wine with citrus soda) is just as fizzy yet not quite as sweet. Corsican herbs, citrus zests, cinchona bark (quinine) and walnuts are infused on a base of Corsican Muscat and Vermentinu mistelles (slightly fermented white wine) to make up an aromatic, slightly nutty and bittersweet elixir.

Traditionally served over ice, with tonic or mixed with dark spirits like rye whiskey or brandy, you can use quinquina the same way you’d use sweet vermouth or an aperitif wine. The Veritas is light and lovely on its feet with deep herby flavors and just sweet enough to keep you sipping.