While the Aperol Spritz and cocktails made with Campari such as the Negroni or an Americano have become super popular (all of which I love), I was curious to branch out and try some lesser known but very complex and interesting aperitivos. That is, a drink to enjoy before a meal or anytime you just want to sit outside in a café and feel a little bit Italian.
“I think it’s because people are starting to realize that an aperitivo is more than just a drink — it’s an experience, a way of life. It’s about enjoying the Italian culture and time with friends and family,” Giuseppe Gallo, founder and creator of Italicus and Savoia told me via email.
Savoia Americano is a low-ABV vino aperitivo that’s great in a spritz or in your favorite cocktail. This ruby red vermouth can add a layer of complexity to drinks, and I decided to try making a Negroni with it.
Savoia, which is crafted and bottled in a historic distillery in Turin, Italy, uses oak-aged D.O.C. Marsala fortified wine, which results in a complex “amaro-dolce” flavor profile. Think of it as a mid-point between bitters liquor and red vermouth.
Here’s how to make a Savoia Negroni:
- 2 parts Savoia Americano
- 1 part London dry gin
- Fill a rock glass, fill with ice cubes, add the ingredients, stir gently and garnish with grapes or an orange slice.
The first thing I noticed (besides the gorgeous bottle Savoia comes in) was the intense ruby red color. For the gin, I used Tanqueray, which went really well in this drink. Taking the place of Campari and sweet vermouth, the Savoia gave the cocktail depth plus the combination of sweet and bitter that I was expecting. My neighbor gave it a taste and agreed that this was definitely a great addition to a home bar.
The next cocktail I mixed up was made with Italicus. “I created Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto to bring back the forgotten Rosolio category — the oldest aperitivo in the world dating back to the 15th century,” Gallo told me. Rosolio was enjoyed at royal parties as a welcome drink, so much so that it became known as the drink of kings. Made from bergamot citrus oranges, Italicus has floral aromas along with an herbal and delicately bitter taste. “I think Italicus is best enjoyed sipping straight, however, if you are new to the Rosolio category, I recommend using it in a spritz or margarita for a twist,” he said.
The beautiful blue bottle immediately intrigued me and upon opening it, I smelled a very citrusy aroma. I loved Gallo’s suggestion to use it in a drink with grapefruit soda, so that’s what I did!
Here’s how to make an Italicus Cup:
- 1 part Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto
- 2 parts grapefruit soda
- Fill a tumbler with cubed ice, add all the ingredients. Gently stir and garnish with a slice of pink grapefruit.
I used Fresca in this drink since that was what I had on hand. This drink was citrusy and smooth — very easy to sip and would be great to celebrate the first day of spring.
I’ll be on the lookout for more aperitivos to sample as I try to emulate the Italian spirit of slowing down and savoring the moment.