A few nights ago I did a tasting review of three great apéritifs. Lillet Blanc, Cocchi Americano, and Kina L'aero d'or. I did a compare and contrast of the three and here are my notes
Lillet Blanc- Lightest of the three in body and flavor. With a threshold (barely detectable) bitterness. It is sweet with a light orange taste.
Cocchi Americano- a bit more assertive flavor and body than Lillet Blanc. More dry. More citrus flavor than lillet. It has a mild bitterness.
Kina L'aero d'or- good strong orange flavor, thicker mouthfeel. Followed by a bitter taste. It's also very medicinal.
I've made Vespers on New Years Eve with all three and they all make a fine Vesper. The Lillet is good for a more ethereal experience. The Cocchi makes a solid vesper also, and the Kina L'aero d'or really shines in the cocktail. It also lends the drink a lovely very light champagne color.
Final consensus: All three deserve a place in the bar. I can see why some chose Cocchi Americano for a Kina Lillet substitute due to the reformulation but I still love the stuff. For those of you who love Corpse Revivers and Vespers. I would keep all three at hand.
Also, If anyone would love to do a similar tasting review that would be awesome too!