Chinotto (soft drink)

Chinotto [kiˈnɔtto] is a type of carbonated soft drink produced from the juice of the fruit of the myrtle-leaved orange tree (Citrus myrtifolia). The beverage is dark in color. Its appearance is similar to that of cola, but it is not as sweet as cola, having a bittersweet taste. Another additive that is commonly incorporated in chinotto is coca tree

The drink was known in antiquity as a dark hued, bitter tasting variant of orange juice, and was considered refreshment. Industrial production of Chinotto soda dates to the 1950s. It is produced in Italy by several companies, and is mostly consumed in Italy and Malta. San Pellegrino, the mineral water company, exports it under the brand name "Chinò." Coca-Cola produces it under the brand name "Fanta Chinotto" in Italy and "Fanta Amara" in Malta.

The origin of modern chinotto is unclear. It was first created by Farsons in Malta according to the late Nini' Miceli Farrugia. San Pellegrino claims to have created it the 1950s. Miceli Farrugia claimed they copied it from him. Another important brand of chinotto was Recoaro, which was the best-selling chinotto soda in the 1950s.

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