Named after a town in Venezuela and made in Trinidad from roots, bark, leaves, and alcohol. It is used in small amounts to lend an aromatic and slightly bitter element to mixed drinks. It is best known as the essential ingredient of the popular cocktail called the “Manhattan.”

In 1824, a German doctor living in Venezuela mixed this substance to create a tonic for his ailing wife. Legend says that this creation worked as a cure for malaria and other tropical diseases. Sailors swore that it cured seasickness (especially when mixed with rum).