Strucchi Bitter Liqueur 70cl

A bittersweet Italian red bitter liqueur with a bright, zesty citrus edge.

Strucchi pays homage to Arnaldo Strucchi (1853-1913), whose 1907 book Il Vermouth di Torino remains a reference for the category today. Paolo Dalla Mora revived the name, building this bitter on a base of sage and lemon, typical of Piedmontese digestivi, infused with juniper and 18 further botanicals. Sweet orange, gentian, rhubarb and sage give it a rounded, well-balanced character. The striking label is by Piedmontese artist Riccardo Guasco, who linked each Strucchi bottle to a historical figure, in this case Rodolfo Valentino.

Bitter orange, ruby red grapefruit, lime, quinine, bay leaf and cherry on the nose. Herbaceous quinine bitterness leads on the palate, balanced by zesty citrus and acacia honey, before a long bitter finish.

It’s a natural partner for sweet vermouth, and characterful alternative to Campari, in an Americano, Negroni or MiTo, or simply topped with soda water.

Let Difford’s Guide play bartender: tap ‘Cocktails with this ingredient’ below.

ABV 27% | 700ml | Italy