The Bisleri’s, originally a family of industrialists, have produced this very famous Italian tonic since 1881. It is essentially an aperitif in a herb flavoured, fortified wine base. Its producers recommend its as a blood tonic. Each 30 ml shot contains 5 mg of Iron from Ammonium Iron (lll) Citrate and when taken at any time of day, but preferably before a meal, will help maintain normal blood. Ferro China also makes a pleasant drink when mixed with mineral water.

One member of the Bisleri family, Franco Bordoni-Bisleri (born 1913), was a famous Italian flying ace. The badge on the Ferro-China bottles was a lion so this was the image painted on most of his aircraft alongside the word ‘Robur’ meaning ‘strength’ in Latin. No doubt his fame helped to popularise the brand. 21% Alc./Vol.