The origins of Mirto can be traced back to ancient times, when the Egyptians began crushing the leaves of the myrtle plant and adding them to wine to be used for medicinal purposes. The ancient Greeks and Romans also recognized the plant’s medicinal properties and used it to treat a variety of ailments. The myrtle plant has been cultivated on the Mediterranean island of Sardinia for thousands of years, and it has played an important role in the island’s economy and culture.
The tradition of making Mirto in Sardinia dates back to at least the 16th century, when it was primarily consumed for its medicinal properties. The drink was made by soaking the berries in alcohol and adding sugar and other ingredients to create a sweet and aromatic liqueur. Today there are two primary types of Mirto available, Mirto Bianco (white Mirto) and Mirto Rosso (red Mirto). Mirto Bianco is made from the white berries of the myrtle plant or sometimes from younger myrtle leaves, and it has a lighter, more delicate flavor. AMATI represents a Mirto Rosso, which is made from the darker, more flavorful berries and has a richer, more full-bodied taste.
Mirto is most commonly served chilled in a liqueur glass as a digestivo, but is also often used alongside soda water or tonic water for a refreshing spritz. Mixologists today are also discovering Mirto and experimenting with its unique, floral character that can add an entirely new dimension to a wide array of cocktails.
AMATI is currently the only Mirto producer in California and paving the way for a new wave of this ancient beverage.
LEGENDS OF MYRTLE
The myrtle plant, from which Mirto is made, has a rich mythological history that spans across several cultures and time periods. In Greek mythology, the myrtle was associated with Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. According to legend, when Aphrodite emerged from the sea, the myrtle trees bloomed in her honor. The plant became a symbol of love and was often used in weddings and other celebrations.
In ancient Rome, the myrtle was also associated with Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. Roman brides often wore crowns of myrtle on their wedding day as a symbol of love and fidelity. The plant was also used in religious ceremonies and was believed to have healing properties.
In Jewish tradition, the myrtle is one of the four species used during the festival of Sukkot. The plant symbolizes the eye, and its use during the festival is believed to represent the importance of seeing the beauty and goodness in the world.
In Islamic tradition, the myrtle is believed to have been one of the plants in the Garden of Eden. It is also associated with the prophet Muhammad, who is said to have planted a myrtle tree in the mosque in Medina.
The myrtle is also mentioned in several other mythological traditions, including those of ancient Egypt and China. In Egyptian mythology, the plant was associated with the goddess Isis, while in China it was believed to have protective properties and was often used in amulets.
Overall, the myrtle plant has a rich and varied mythological history, with associations to love, beauty, fertility, healing, and protection. Its use in religious and cultural traditions has helped to cement its status as a powerful and symbolic plant throughout history.