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Categories: Vermouth, Americano, Quinquina/Chinato, Vino Amaro, Red Bitter Aperitif, Sparkling Wine, Red Wine, Marsala, Floral/Herbal/Amaro Liqueurs

Oenotria, la terra della vite—the land of the vine. Italy cultivates the vine everywhere on the peninsula: from its northernmost alpine borders to the ‘heel of the boot’ and beyond. It is no exaggeration to say the history of wine and the history of Italian civilization are indivisible. Yet that history is a living one, hyper-local, each region and village with its own grapes, terroirs and traditions, zealously protected and preserved. This rich diversity includes not only the now-familiar faces of Italian wine—Prosecco, Chianti and Barolo—but classic Marsala and millennia-old traditions of aromatized wines and liqueurs, from the wormwood-infusions first popularized during Pax Romana to today’s vibrant aperitivo, spritz and amari cultures.

    Vermouth
    Cocchi Vermouth di Torino Extra Dry bottle

    Cocchi Vermouth di Torino Extra Dry

    ItalyPiemonteVermouth di Torino DOP 17.0% ABV

    17.0% ABV

    Giulio Cocchi brings its unique expression of Piemontese grapes to the world of dry vermouth. Cocchi Extra Dry Vermouth di Torino combines the freshness of a Cortese wine base with local mountain wormwood, Menta di Pancalieri peppermint, and lemon over a backbone of angelica, coriander, and cardamom. Use Cocchi Extra Dry in a Martini with robust gins, or spritz with tonic water. The silky vinous texture of Cocchi Extra Dry is ideal for classic whiskey cocktails that call for dry vermouth, such as the Old Pal and the Scofflaw. At aperitif hour, Cocchi Extra Dry is ideal to pair with young cheeses. Full details

    Cocchi Vermouth di Torino Extra Dry label
    Cocchi Vermouth di Torino ‘Storico’ bottle

    Cocchi Vermouth di Torino ‘Storico’

    ItalyPiemonteVermouth di Torino DOP 16.0% ABV

    16.0% ABV

    The last remaining example of appellation Vermouth di Torino to comply with all of the classical requirements, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino ‘Storico’ has been produced since 1891. Cocchi uses estate Moscato as the wine base, and vibrant, spicy botanicals such as cocoa, citrus, ginger, and rhubarb. In contrast with other popular Italian vermouths, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino ‘Storico’ retains wines of Piedmont as the base and avoids a heavy sheen of vanilla that clashes with other cocktail ingredients. Vermouth di Torino stands apart as one of only two protected geographical indications of origin for vermouth, and is the style referenced by classic cocktail books when discussing “Italian vermouth.” Full details

    Cocchi Vermouth di Torino ‘Storico’ label
    Cocchi “Dopo Teatro” Vermouth Amaro bottle

    Cocchi “Dopo Teatro” Vermouth Amaro

    ItalyPiemonte 16.0% ABV

    16.0% ABV

    The name ‘Dopo Teatro’ refers to the late-evening, “after theater” service at restaurants and cafes in Torino, a gathering time for a sip of something bittersweet and maybe a small bite to eat. This “vermouth amaro” (vermouth with additional bitter elements) starts with the Moscato-based Cocchi Storico Vermouth di Torino, to which winemaker Giulio Bava adds robust Nebbiolo wine, local gentian, rhubarb root, chiretta and quinine. The result is a robust amaro that retains the refreshing acidity of the original vermouth. Ideal for cask strength or peated whiskeys as well as mezcal or gin, or pairing with spicy salami or intense chocolate preparations. Full details

    Cocchi “Dopo Teatro” Vermouth Amaro label
    Americano
    Cocchi Americano Rosa bottle

    Cocchi Americano Rosa

    ItalyPiemonte 16.5% ABV

    16.5% ABV

    Throughout its history, Giulio Cocchi has used the aperitif wine Americano profile to highlight the fine aromatic grapes of Piemonte. In Cocchi Americano Rosa, the Brachetto d’Acqui wine base provides the white rose and rich berry notes typical of the famous sparkling wine of the same variety, while the addition of rose and ginger to the traditional bitter base provides a rounder profile. Full details

    Cocchi Americano Rosa label
    Cocchi Americano Bianco bottle

    Cocchi Americano Bianco

    ItalyPiemonte 16.5% ABV

    16.5% ABV

    Made to the same recipe since 1891, this Moscato-based aperitif wine has long been a staple of Asti. While the Americano name implies a gentian focus, the wine also includes quinine and citrus for a flavorful, refreshing profile. In Piemonte it is served chilled with ice, a splash of soda and a peel of orange. Cocchi Americano Bianco’s combination of fruit, spice and bitter undertones can perfect a number of classic mixed drinks. This same profile makes it splendid pairing with all kinds of pickles, nuts, charcuterie and cheeses. Full details

    Cocchi Americano Bianco label
    Quinquina/Chinato
    Cocchi Barolo Chinato bottle

    Cocchi Barolo Chinato

    ItalyPiemonte 16.5% ABV

    16.5% ABV

    Renowned in Piemonte since its introduction in 1891, Cocchi Barolo Chinato is a wine of DOCG Barolo infused with quinine bark, rhubarb, ginger, cardamom, cocoa, and a variety of other aromatic spices. Round and rich, yet with the deep back palate one expects of Barolo, this wine possesses the definition necessary to be an ideal digestif or pairing with dark chocolate. Serve as you would a high-quality port or Madeira, or use in lieu of sweet red vermouth in a luxurious Manhattan. You would not be alone in finding this to be the Rolls Royce (or Maserati) of Italian dessert wines. Full details

    Cocchi Barolo Chinato label
    Vino Amaro
    Pasubio bottle

    Pasubio

    ItalyTrentino-Alto Adige 17.0% ABV

    17.0% ABV

    Pasubio is a true taste of the Dolomite Mountains in the Trentino region. On a base of rich aged wine you’ll find notes of blueberries, pine and smoke, together with bitter alpine herbs. It is rare among amari to feature mountain berries. The recipe from Giuseppe Cappelletti dates back to the early 20th century and is among the Erboristeria’s first amari. Traditionally enjoyed neat, typically at cellar temperature or chilled. Pasubio makes simple and delicious spritzes with tonic, soda, sparkling lemonade, or bitter lemon. Also pairs well in mixed drinks with bourbon, rye, or brandy. Full details

    Pasubio label
    Elisir Novasalus bottle

    Elisir Novasalus

    ItalyTrentino-Alto Adige 16.0% ABV

    16.0% ABV

    Perhaps the most earnest of digestivi, Elisir Novasalus is revered in Alto Adige and regions beyond. Made by an Erboristeria (master of botanicals) and trader in wines, it combines in a six-month process the plants from the surrounding high alps (Alto Adige) with a dry Marsala and a unique tree sap of Sicily. The resulting amaro is bold, bitter and exceptionally complex, with layers upon layers of flavor. Famously comforting after a large meal. While not traditionally mixed, it is nicely followed by a small glass of sparkling wine. Unrivalled in its palate effect, it makes for a perfect finish to a meal. Full details

    Elisir Novasalus label
    Cardamaro Vino Amaro bottle

    Cardamaro Vino Amaro

    ItalyPiemonte 17.0% ABV

    17.0% ABV

    Cardamaro is a longstanding product of what is today an 8th-generation winemaker in Canelli d’Asti. The primary flavors of Cardamaro are cardoon and blessed thistle, with gentle undertones of spice. The wine base provides a pleasing texture and allows for pairing with robust cheeses, soft or hard. Mix Cardamaro with cider or ginger ale, or use in place of vermouth for an earthier take on classic cocktails. Cardamaro can also be used in place of whiskey for subtle cocktails, such as with Dolin Rouge in the Lower Manhattan. Full details

    Cardamaro Vino Amaro label
    Negroni Insorti bottle

    Negroni Insorti

    ItalyTrentino-Alto Adige 17.0% ABV

    17.0% ABV

    Negroni Insorti (‘insurgents’) is at once as familiar as it is unexpected. It is a Negroni cocktail made in a singular construction, from raw ingredients to a finished product—every last detail is deliberate. It features the primary botanicals of its namesake: citrus peels, gentian, wormwood, and juniper, with fruits and flowers providing the color. Wine-based, and vegan-friendly. Enjoy over ice with an orange twist. Negroni Insorti is made just outside of Trento in Alto Adige by the Cappelletti family, who also produce a number of exceptional aperitivi and amari. Full details

    Negroni Insorti label
    Red Bitter Aperitif
    Aperitivo Cappelletti bottle

    Aperitivo Cappelletti

    ItalyTrentino-Alto Adige 17.0% ABV

    17.0% ABV

    The Aperitivo Cappelletti, endearingly known to locals as just “Specialino”, may be the oldest style of the classic red bitter still in production. Unlike its larger commercial rivals, Cappelletti is less sweet and has a wonderful drying finish. Additionally, it still uses natural carmine color for a crimson red and retains a vinous texture from its wine base. It offers a vibrant and flavorful profile, complemented by bitter undertones on a traditional wine base. This yields a Negroni or Spritz that is dry and refreshing in the finish. It is made just outside of Trento in Alto Adige by the Cappelletti family, who also produce a number of other exceptional aperitivi and amari. Full details

    Aperitivo Cappelletti label
    Aperitivo Mazzura bottle

    Aperitivo Mazzura

    ItalyTrentino-Alto Adige 17.0% ABV

    17.0% ABV

    Aperitivo Mazzura distinguishes itself in both its multidimensional flavor and stunning fuchsia color. Botanicals are sourced from Dolomite hills and valleys in Italy's Triveneto region, birthplace of the spritz. Mazzura's color comes from a unique blend of flowers and fruits that is entirely natural and vegan-friendly. Try Mazzura in a Negroni, Boulevardier or Spritz. It is made just outside of Trento in Alto Adige by the Cappelletti family, who also produce a number of other exceptional aperitivi and amari. Full details

    Aperitivo Mazzura label
    Sparkling Wine
    Cocchi Piemonte Brut NV bottle

    Cocchi Piemonte Brut NV

    ItalyPiemontePiemonte DOC 12.0% ABV

    12.0% ABV • Méthode Charmat

    Cocchi employs a classic blend of estate pinot nero and chardonnay for this sparkling wine, which adds intricacy, cut, and intensity to the rich apple, pear, and floral notes. Ideal as an aperitif or to make a particularly nice Spritz. Full details

    Cocchi Piemonte Brut NV label
    Cocchi Alta Langa Bianc d’ Bianc 2010 bottle

    Cocchi Alta Langa Bianc d’ Bianc 2010

    ItalyPiemonteAlta Langa DOCG 12.5% ABV

    12.5% ABV • Méthode Traditionnelle

    DOCG Alta Langa is the top appellation for sparkling wines in Piemonte. The requirements are very strict, including use of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and at least 30 months for the second fermentation in bottle. Full details

    Cocchi Alta Langa Bianc d’ Bianc 2010 label
    Cocchi Alta Langa Bianc d’ Bianc 2009 bottle

    Cocchi Alta Langa Bianc d’ Bianc 2009

    ItalyPiemonteAlta Langa DOCG 12.5% ABV

    12.5% ABV • Méthode Traditionnelle

    DOCG Alta Langa is the top appellation for sparkling wines in Piemonte. The requirements are very strict, including use of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and at least 30 months for the second fermentation in bottle. Full details

    Cocchi Alta Langa Bianc d’ Bianc 2009 label
    Cocchi Alta Langa Rosa 2012 bottle

    Cocchi Alta Langa Rosa 2012

    ItalyPiemonteAlta Langa DOCG 12.5% ABV

    12.5% ABV • Méthode Traditionnelle

    DOCG Alta Langa is the top appellation for sparkling wines in Piemonte. The requirements are very strict, including use of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and at least 30 months for the second fermentation in bottle. Full details

    Cocchi Alta Langa Rosa 2012 label
    Cocchi Asti NV bottle

    Cocchi Asti NV

    ItalyPiemonteAsti DOCG 7.0% ABV

    7.0% ABV • Méthode Charmat

    ASTI is produced by Cocchi through a slow fermentation in steel vats of the Moscato Bianco picked from the family’s Colline Astigiane vinyard in the Asti hills. Creamy and delicate to taste, with a very scented aroma. The label’s colors match the flags that parade at the start of the ‘Palio d’Asti’ festival. Full details

    Cocchi Asti NV label
    Cocchi Brachetto d’Acqui NV bottle

    Cocchi Brachetto d’Acqui NV

    ItalyPiemonteBrachetto d’Acqui DOCG 7.0% ABV

    7.0% ABV • Méthode Charmat

    Cocchi makes Brachetto d’Acqui after a slow, controlled fermentation of its estate Brachetto grapes in steel tanks. Cocchi Brachetto d’Acqui is drier, higher-acid, and more defined than virtually any other example on the market, but it still has the fun and fruit for accompanying sorbet or cookies. Full details

    Cocchi Brachetto d’Acqui NV label
    Red Wine
    Casa Brina Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato 2015 bottle

    Casa Brina Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato 2015

    ItalyPiemonteRuchè di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG 12.0% ABV

    12.0% ABV

    Strikingly aromatic, with notes of rose petal, violet, black cherry and bitter almond, Casa Brina Ruchè di Castagnole Monferratto boasts a classic Piemontese structure and complexity, its firm tannins reminiscent of Nebbiolo (at a fraction of the price). With air, it takes on a gentle spice and rustic elegance. Approachable now, it should age well for more than a decade. Full details

    Casa Brina Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato 2015 label
    Marsala
    Ostinato Marsala Fine Ambra Secco bottle

    Ostinato Marsala Fine Ambra Secco

    ItalySicilyMarsala DOC 17.0% ABV

    17.0% ABV • Fortified, Oxidative

    Delicious, balanced and refined, Ostinato Fine Ambra Secco is a dry Marsala that is produced according to traditional methods now rarely seen in the appellation, especially in Fine expressions. It begins with its ‘alto grado’ base wine, from late-harvest, low-yielding Grillo, Inzolia and Catarratto old vines. Its higher natural ABV means the wine is less reliant on fortification and is more expressive of Marsala’s indelible terroir. Extended aging beyond the minimum Fine requirements produce a Marsala that resonates with deep vinous character. Full details

    Ostinato Marsala Fine Ambra Secco label
    Ostinato Marsala Fine Ambra Dolce bottle

    Ostinato Marsala Fine Ambra Dolce

    ItalySicilyMarsala DOC 17.0% ABV

    17.0% ABV • Fortified, Oxidative

    Delicious, balanced and refined, Ostinato Fine Ambra Dolce is a sweet Marsala that is produced according to traditional methods now rarely seen in the appellation, especially in Fine expressions. It begins with its ‘alto grado’ base wine, from late-harvest, low-yielding Grillo, Inzolia and Catarratto old vines. Its higher natural ABV means the wine is less reliant on fortification and is more expressive of Marsala’s indelible terroir. Extended aging beyond the minimum Fine requirements produce a Marsala that resonates with deep vinous character. Full details

    Ostinato Marsala Fine Ambra Dolce label
    Floral/Herbal/Amaro Liqueurs
    Amaro Alta Verde bottle

    Amaro Alta Verde

    ItalyTrentino-Alto Adige 24.0% ABV

    24.0% ABV

    Amaro Alta Verde’s hallmark flavor was common long ago throughout the Adriatic, though seldom found in the last half century. The principal ingredient is assenzio, a variety of wormwood. A complementary blend of alpine herbs, citrus and spice frame and lighten the classic bitter profile. True to its origins, the aromas evoke a summer forest in all its verdant splendor. Upon tasting, Alta Verde yields impressive length and complex bitterness, intertwined with gentle sweetness and bright herbal notes that give balance throughout the palate. Full details

    Amaro Alta Verde label
    Amaro Sfumato Rabarbaro bottle

    Amaro Sfumato Rabarbaro

    ItalyTrentino-Alto Adige 20.0% ABV

    20.0% ABV

    The term Sfumato derives from the Italian word for smoke - ‘fumo’. It is traditionally associated with a style of Renaissance painting characterized by subtle transitions between areas of dark and light. This speaks directly to this amaro’s profile, which marries a dark smokiness with bitter woodsiness from alpine herbs and notes of sweet alpine berries. The main ingredient is a special Rabarbaro (rhubarb) variety that grows in Trentino Alto Adige and Veneto. Enjoy with tonic, grapefruit soda, or whiskey. Full details

    Amaro Sfumato Rabarbaro label